- Must visit
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
The city’s leading archaeology museum, presenting Macedonian gold, sculpture, and finds that explain Thessaloniki’s ancient history.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Istanbul to Thessaloniki
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
- Cheapest price on Nov 01
- €45
- Average ticket price on Nov 01
- €47
- Fastest journey on Nov 01
- 9 h 30 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 01
- 9 h 48 m
- Buses on Nov 01
- 6
- Distance
- 507 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Istanbul to Thessaloniki is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Istanbul to Thessaloniki will cost around €47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €45.
Fast buses
On Sun, Nov 01, we found 6 buses from Istanbul to Thessaloniki, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Nov 01 the direct buses cover the 507 km distance in an average of 9 h 48 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 30 m .
On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest buses will take 10 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
75998854:30 PM 10h00 Istanbul 1:30 AM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers- 7708772
12:00 PM 10h00 Istanbul 9:00 PM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7708772
12:00 PM 9h45 Istanbul 8:45 PM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7719257
9:30 PM 9h30 Istanbul 6:00 AM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7719257
9:30 PM 9h45 Istanbul 6:15 AM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers
- 7719257
9:30 PM 9h30 Istanbul 6:00 AM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7708772
12:00 PM 9h45 Istanbul 8:45 PM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7719257
9:30 PM 9h45 Istanbul 6:15 AM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7599885
4:30 PM 10h00 Istanbul 1:30 AM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers - 7708772
12:00 PM 10h00 Istanbul 9:00 PM Thessaloniki €45 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki
Turkey
Greece
Buses from Istanbul to Thessaloniki run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €35 if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 315 miles (507 km) distance in 8h 30m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance315 miles (507 km)
- Average bus duration9h 25m
- Cheapest ticket price€35
- Buses per day5
- Direct buses4
- Fastest bus8h 30m
- First bus12:15 AM
- Last bus11:00 PM
- Cheapest MonthOct
- Cheapest DayMon
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DayFri
- Least Busy DaySat
- Best time to book49 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Istanbul to Thessaloniki trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Istanbul to Thessaloniki.
Cheap bus tickets from Istanbul to Thessaloniki can start from as little as €35 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Istanbul to Thessaloniki is €46 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Istanbul to Thessaloniki with ArdaTur, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Istanbul to Thessaloniki Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €45 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €45 |
Operator ArdaTur | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 14h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €52 |
Live departures
Istanbul to Thessaloniki bus times
The table below shows live departures for Istanbul to Thessaloniki buses for tomorrow, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7708772 | 12:00 PM Istanbul | 10h00 | 9:00 PM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7708772 | 12:00 PM Istanbul | 9h45 | 8:45 PM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7599885 | 4:30 PM Istanbul | 10h00 | 1:30 AM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7719257 | 9:30 PM Istanbul | 9h45 | 6:15 AM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7719257 | 9:30 PM Istanbul | 9h30 | 6:00 AM Thessaloniki | 0 transfersDirect | |
 FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:00 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 14h25 | 12:25 PM Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Istanbul to Thessaloniki buses with Omio?
ArdaTur as well as Infobus or FlixBus offer buses services from Istanbul to Thessaloniki.
Omio is the only official third party seller for ArdaTur tickets.
Why book with Omio vs ArdaTur?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for ArdaTur, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Istanbul to Thessaloniki.
- 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 ArdaTur with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Istanbul to Thessaloniki.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Istanbul to Thessaloniki
Buses from Istanbul to Thessaloniki with ArdaTur, FlixBus, and Infobus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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 FlixBus Duration
13h 21m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€41
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.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Infobus Duration
10h 0m
Cheapest Infobus Price
€35
Infobus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
ArdaTur
About
ArdaTur is a bus company based in Haskovo, Bulgaria, established in 1991. It offers extensive bus services across seven countries, including Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Germany. ArdaTur operates over 233 daily departures, primarily from major cities like Istanbul, Sofia, and Thessaloniki, providing both intercity and regional routes. The company emphasizes passenger comfort with amenities such as Wi-Fi, restrooms, individual monitors, and complimentary food and drinks on international lines. ArdaTur maintains a modern fleet of over 80 luxury buses and has its own garage and service facility to ensure vehicle reliability and safety.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ArdaTur Duration
8h 30m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
€45
ArdaTur frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Additional luggage
Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Refund
If the trip is delayed through the fault of the carrier, 100% of the ticket value and compensation for direct costs to the place of departure will be refunded with supporting documents.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are possible when buying a ticket or at Arda Tur offices up to 24 hours before departure during weak periods and 72 hours during busy periods.
Toilets
Accessibility
Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Bikes
Only foldable bikes are allowed.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Istanbul and Thessaloniki
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki, you can count on ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Thessaloniki. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Istanbul and Thessaloniki and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki for bus company ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Istanbul to Thessaloniki depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- 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.
- ArdaTur
- Cancellation policies vary by ticket class, individual trips, or promotions, with refunds ranging from 50% to 100% depending on the time before departure, and no refunds for cancellations less than 24 hours prior.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Istanbul to Thessaloniki:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- ArdaTur
- One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Istanbul to Thessaloniki:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki with the following bus company: Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Complete guide to Thessaloniki
Things to do in Thessaloniki
Discover the best of Thessaloniki — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thessaloniki trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Byzantine Culture
Major museum of Byzantine art with icons, mosaics, and everyday objects that illuminate a millennium of regional culture.
- Recommended
Museum of the White Tower
Housed in the White Tower, this museum traces Thessaloniki’s urban story through multimedia displays inside the landmark itself.
- Must visit
Nea Paralia
Signature waterfront promenade stretching along the sea, ideal for walking, cycling, sunset views, and seeing modern Thessaloniki at leisure.
- Must visit
Aristotelous Square
The city’s central square and social heart, opening to the sea and lined with landmark architecture and major public events.
- Must visit
Ano Poli
Historic upper town with traditional houses, winding lanes, and some of the best panoramic views in Thessaloniki.
- Vegetarian
Bougatsa
Bougatsa is a flaky phyllo pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat. Thessaloniki is especially famous for its breakfast bougatsa tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Koulouri Thessalonikis
Koulouri Thessalonikis is a sesame-crusted bread ring sold by street vendors. It is a classic local breakfast snack closely tied to the city's daily food culture.
- Vegetarian
Trigona Panoramatos
Trigona Panoramatos are crisp syrupy phyllo triangles filled with rich custard cream. They originated in the Thessaloniki area and are a beloved local dessert.
Molyvos
Refined modern Greek restaurant known for creative plates, quality seafood, and a polished but relaxed setting in central Thessaloniki.
Bantis
Historic pastry shop famed for classic bougatsa. A must for breakfast or dessert and one of the city's best-known traditional sweet stops.
Palati
Long-standing ladadika taverna serving meze, grilled dishes, and local wine in a lively traditional atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Greece: rooms, meals, and buses are reasonable, with lower dining and transit costs than many Western European city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service; round up taxi fares; small change is fine at cafes.
Plan your visit to Thessaloniki
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Thessaloniki.
Greece uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cash is often preferred in smaller shops, local markets, and remote areas, while cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.
In Thessaloniki, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transportation, and popular tourist sites. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unlicensed drivers are common, so using official taxi services or pre-booked transportation is advised. Travelers should also be alert to distraction techniques used by scammers in busy spots. Overall, maintaining awareness of belongings and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Istanbul to Thessaloniki
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Istanbul to Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Istanbul and Thessaloniki including taking a bus and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Istanbul to Thessaloniki
Most Istanbul to Thessaloniki buses use the Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) to Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) station pair, with some services arriving at Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ). Use this guide to compare Istanbul and Thessaloniki bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Istanbul
Arrival bus stations in Thessaloniki
Which Istanbul station do buses to Thessaloniki leave from?
Buses from Istanbul to Thessaloniki leave from Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). The station is 3 miles (5 km) from Istanbul city centre at Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)Istanbul Buyuk Otogari, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey
City-centre transport
Getting to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) from Istanbul city centre
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) is 5 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainM1a, M1b · 11m · €1 · every ~45 min
Bus91E · 20m · €1 · every ~17 min
TramT4 · 22m · €1 · every ~34 min
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) bus station facilities and services
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Terminal (in the station), Kebab Express (0.2 km), Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and throughout the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler): Elevators, ramps.
Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη)Thessaloniki Bus Stop,Egnatia Odos,null
City-centre transport
Getting to Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) from Thessaloniki city centre
Subway1 · 14m · every ~14 min
Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ)Monastiriou 244, Thessaloniki, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ) from Thessaloniki city centre
Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ) is 1 km from Thessaloniki city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus8, 12, 31 Train: Thessaloniki Railway Station
Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ) bus station facilities and services
Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ): Elevators, ramps.
Most popular buses to and from Thessaloniki and Istanbul
Most popular bus connections to Thessaloniki
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