- Must visit
Topkapı Palace Museum
Former Ottoman imperial palace with treasury, courtyards, and sacred relics; one of the city’s essential historical museum visits.
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Travel Information
Compare flight and bus for Saint Vlas to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Saint Vlas to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a flight costs an average of $184.
Distance: 132 miles (213 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$34 Average price Cheapest | $281 Average price | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 36m Average total duration 7h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 1h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Saint Vlas to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $34 (€28).
This is compared to other travel options from Saint Vlas to Istanbul:
A bus is $247 (€202) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Saint Vlas to Istanbul costing on average $281 (€230).
The fastest way to travel from Saint Vlas to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 7m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Saint Vlas and Istanbul including taking a flight and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Saint Vlas to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $34 (€28) compared to roughly $73 (€60) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $39 (€32). The journey takes 7h 6m versus 4h 45m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by ArdaTur.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Saint Vlas to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Compare prices and tickets Saint Vlas to Istanbul by flight or bus
Compare flight and bus 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul
Bulgaria
Turkey
Buses from Saint Vlas to Istanbul run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 6m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:00, the last at 21:00. The fastest bus covers the 132 miles (213 km) distance in 6h 15m.
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
Distance 132 miles (213 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 6h 15m |
First bus 7:00 AM |
Last bus 9:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Bus providers: ArdaTur from Saint Vlas to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Saint Vlas to Istanbul with ArdaTur for as low as $29 (€24). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
ArdaTur frequency
3 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.
Entertaiment on board
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
İstanbul Archaeological Museums
Major complex of archaeology museums with artifacts from Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the ancient Near East.
- Recommended
İstanbul Modern
Turkey’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, known for strong exhibitions and a Bosphorus-facing setting.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic heart of old Istanbul, linking Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and major Byzantine and Ottoman sites.
- Must visit
İstiklal Avenue
Bustling pedestrian avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, galleries, and the nostalgic tram.
- Recommended
Galataport
Redeveloped waterfront promenade with Bosphorus views, public art, and strong social-media popularity.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
Ring-shaped bread coated with sesame seeds, sold by street vendors and bakeries across Istanbul. It is a classic breakfast and snack food closely associated with daily life in the city.
Balık Ekmek
A famous Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread, especially associated with the Eminönü waterfront. It is valued for its simple, fresh Bosphorus flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kuru Fasulye
Slow-cooked white bean stew, often served with rice and pickles. It is a comforting staple in traditional Istanbul lokantas and can be made simply or with meat.
Karaköy Lokantası
Respected modern lokanta serving polished Turkish home-style cooking, meze, and seasonal dishes. Stylish but grounded in tradition.
Hamdi Restaurant
Well-known restaurant in Eminönü famous for kebabs, lahmacun, and views over the Golden Horn. Established, lively, and popular with both locals and visitors.
Kanaat Lokantası
Long-running Üsküdar lokanta known for hearty everyday Turkish dishes, soups, stews, and classic desserts. Casual, authentic, and very local in feel.
Turkish Lira
Moderate for most tourists. Street food and transit are good value, while hotels and upscale dining in central areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 150-300 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- TRY 500-1,000 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- TRY 1,500+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- TRY 80-180 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Around 5-10% in casual restaurants and 10% in nicer places if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are appreciated for hotel staff and delivery.
Istanbul Senin
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 17.70 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 or its digital equivalent in the Istanbul Senin app for Metro, tram, ferry, and bus travel across the city.
- Card payment on board is not standard on buses and trams, so load credit to an Istanbulkart before traveling.
FAQs: Bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Saint Vlas 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 Saint Vlas to Istanbul can start from as little as $29 (€24) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Saint Vlas to Istanbul is $34 (€28) ; 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 Saint Vlas to Istanbul is 6h 15m to travel the 132 miles (213 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 Saint Vlas to Istanbul leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul leaves at 9:00 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Saint Vlas to Istanbul with ArdaTur. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul, you can count on ArdaTur for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Saint Vlas and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Saint Vlas , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Слънчев бряг (Slunchev Briag), Avtogara, Obzor, Avtogara (Обзор, Автогара) . When arriving in Istanbul , you can end your journey in bus stations like Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Слънчев бряг (Slunchev Briag), Avtogara, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler), located 5 away from the city centre.
A trip to Istanbul from Saint Vlas is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Saint Vlas and Istanbul including taking a flight and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul:
- ArdaTur
- Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul for bus company ArdaTur.
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 Saint Vlas to Istanbul depends on the bus companies:
- 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 ArdaTur.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Saint Vlas to Istanbul:
- 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 Saint Vlas to Istanbul:
- ArdaTur
- Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Saint Vlas to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Saint Vlas 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Saint Vlas 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Saint Vlas to Istanbul
Most Saint Vlas to Istanbul buses use the Obzor, Avtogara (Обзор, Автогара) to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) station pair. Use this guide to compare Saint Vlas and Istanbul bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Saint Vlas
Arrival bus stations in Istanbul
Which Istanbul station do buses from Saint Vlas arrive at?
Buses from Saint Vlas to Istanbul arrive at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) is 3 miles (5 km) from Istanbul city centre.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Saint Vlas
More options for your journey from Saint Vlas to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Saint Vlas
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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