- Must visit
Topkapı Palace Museum
Former imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans, known for its courtyards, treasury, sacred relics, and Bosphorus views.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Budapest to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$114
Average price
$129
Fastest journey
1 d 1 h 55 m
Average duration
1 d 6 h 6 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
1067 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Budapest to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Budapest to Istanbul will cost around $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $114.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Budapest to Istanbul without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus3:15 AM28h55Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1141One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus2:50 AM29h20Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1161One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:15 PM32h55Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1251One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:30 AM25h55Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar11:25 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1301One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:45 PM33h25Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1601One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:30 AM25h55Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar11:25 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1301One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus3:15 AM28h55Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1141One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus2:50 AM29h20Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1161One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:15 PM32h55Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1251One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:45 PM33h25Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar9:10 AMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$1601One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Budapest to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Budapest to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $82. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $82, and a flight costs an average of $66.
Distance: 663 miles (1067 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$100 Average price Cheapest | $135 Average price | $311 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 14m Average total duration 26h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Budapest to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $100 (€83).
This is compared to other travel options from Budapest to Istanbul:
A bus is $35 (€29) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Budapest to Istanbul costing on average $135 (€111).
The fastest way to travel from Budapest to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 26h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Budapest and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Budapest to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Budapest to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:50AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 29h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 28h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 25h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 33h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 32h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $103 |
Live departures
Budapest to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Budapest to Istanbul buses for tomorrow, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:50 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 29h20 | 9:10 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:15 AM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér | 28h55 | 9:10 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:30 AM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 25h55 | 11:25 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:45 PM Budapest, Népliget Autóbusz-Pályaudvar | 33h25 | 9:10 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:15 PM Budapest, Liszt Ferenc Nemzetközi Repülőtér | 32h55 | 9:10 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Budapest to Istanbul by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Budapest to Istanbul buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Citylines offer buses services from Budapest to Istanbul.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Budapest to Istanbul.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Citylines to find the best option for your trip from Budapest to Istanbul.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Budapest to Istanbul.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Budapest to Istanbul.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Budapest to Istanbul
Hungary
Turkey
Buses from Budapest to Istanbul run on average 1 times per day, taking around 26h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $82 (€67) but you can travel from only $66 (€54) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 11:00, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 663 miles (1067 km) distance in 28h 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $66 (€54)
Distance 663 miles (1067 km) |
Average bus duration 26h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 (€67) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 28h 55m |
First bus 11:00 AM |
Last bus 10:00 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 3 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $66 (€54)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Citylines from Budapest to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Budapest to Istanbul with FlixBus, Citylines for as low as $66 (€54). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
28h 55m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Citylines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
21h 40m
Cheapest Price
$95 (€78)
Citylines frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Istanbul
Things to do in Istanbul
Discover the best of Istanbul — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istanbul trip today.
- Recommended
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
Major museum complex with outstanding collections from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world, including the Alexander Sarcophagus.
- Recommended
Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts
Set in the former Ibrahim Pasha Palace, this museum is noted for carpets, calligraphy, woodwork, and ethnographic displays.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic heart of the old city, surrounded by Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and major Byzantine and Ottoman monuments.
- Must visit
Istiklal Avenue
Istanbul’s best-known pedestrian avenue, lined with historic buildings, shops, passages, galleries, and lively street life.
- Recommended
Galataport
Redeveloped waterfront promenade with public art, Bosphorus views, and strong recent popularity among visitors and social media users.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
A ring-shaped bread coated with sesame seeds, sold by street vendors and bakeries. It is a classic Istanbul breakfast snack and everyday staple.
Balık Ekmek
A famous Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread with salad and onion, especially associated with the Eminönü waterfront.
İskender Kebap
Thinly sliced döner meat over pide bread with tomato sauce, melted butter, and yogurt. It is one of Türkiye’s best-known hearty meat dishes.
Mikla
One of Istanbul’s landmark fine dining restaurants, known for contemporary Turkish cuisine, tasting menus, and panoramic city views.
Karaköy Lokantası
A well-known modern lokanta serving refined Turkish classics and meze in an elegant but lively setting in Karaköy.
Hamdi Restaurant
A famous long-running restaurant near Eminönü known for kebabs, lahmacun, and wide views over the Historic Peninsula.
Turkish lira
Moderate for most tourists. Food and transit are good value, while hotels in central areas can be costly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 150-300 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- TRY 400-900 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- TRY 1,500+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- TRY 80-150 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Around 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and delivery drivers.
Istanbul Senin
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 27 TRY
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
İstanbul Havalimanı, Tayakadın Terminal Cad. No:1, Istanbul -> Sirkeci Station, Istanbul
- Distance
- 41 km
- Travel time
- 55 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for Metro, Tram, Ferry and Bus travel; single-use paper tickets cost more per ride.
- Card payment is generally not accepted directly on municipal buses and trams, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
FAQs: Bus from Budapest to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Budapest to Istanbul by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Budapest to Istanbul can start from as little as $82 (€67) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Budapest to Istanbul is $100 (€83) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Budapest to Istanbul is 28h 55m to travel the 663 miles (1067 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Budapest to Istanbul leaves at 11:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Budapest to Istanbul leaves at 10:00 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Budapest to Istanbul which require at least one change with FlixBus, Citylines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Budapest to Istanbul, you can count on FlixBus, Citylines for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Budapest and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Istanbul from Budapest is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 28h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Budapest and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Budapest to Istanbul:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Budapest to Istanbul for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Istanbul are:
- Hagia Sophia, a historic architectural marvel that served as a church and mosque, now a museum
- Topkapi Palace, the opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans with extensive collections of artifacts
- Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque known for its stunning blue tiles and six minarets
- Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir featuring impressive columns and atmospheric lighting
- Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower offering panoramic views of Istanbul.
The best things to do in Istanbul include:
- Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets offering a wide range of goods
- Bosphorus Cruise, a scenic boat tour offering views of Istanbul's skyline and historic landmarks
- Spice Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with exotic spices, sweets, and local delicacies
- Turkish Bath, experience a traditional hammam for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Explore Istiklal Avenue, a bustling street known for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Budapest to Istanbul depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Budapest to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Budapest to Istanbul:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Budapest to Istanbul:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Budapest to Istanbul. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Budapest to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Budapest to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Budapest to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Budapest will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Budapest to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Türkiye uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its currency. Travelers often find cards widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases, local markets, and rural regions where card acceptance may be limited.
In Istanbul, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides without a meter, unofficial tour guides offering expensive or fake services, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to use official taxis or ride-hailing apps, agree on prices beforehand, and stay vigilant in busy areas to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular bus connections from Budapest
More options for your journey from Budapest to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Budapest
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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