Thessaloniki to Istanbul bus with ArdaTur

Tue, Oct 13
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ArdaTur
Infobus
FlixBus
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ArdaTur
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Thessaloniki to Istanbul

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 14

Cheapest price on Oct 14

$54

Average ticket price on Oct 14

$56

Fastest journey on Oct 14

8 h 1 m

Average journey duration on Oct 14

8 h 41 m

Buses on Oct 14

5

Distance

507 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Thessaloniki to Istanbul will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.

Fast buses

On Wed, Oct 14, we found 5 buses from Thessaloniki to Istanbul, including 5 direct services.

On Wed, Oct 14 the direct buses cover the 507 km distance in an average of 8 h 41 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 1 m .

On Wed, Oct 14 the slowest buses will take 9 h 20 m 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.

  • ArdaTur
    9:15 PM8h45
    Thessaloniki
    6:00 AMIstanbul
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur
    8:59 PM9h01
    Thessaloniki
    6:00 AMIstanbul
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur
    6:30 AM8h20
    Thessaloniki
    2:50 PMIstanbul
    $561One-way
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur
    5:30 AM9h20
    Thessaloniki
    2:50 PMIstanbul
    $561One-way
    0 transfers
  • ArdaTur
    9:59 PM8h01
    Thessaloniki
    6:00 AMIstanbul
    $621One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul

GreeceGreece
TurkeyTurkey
Icon of bus

Buses from Thessaloniki to Istanbul run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€35) if you book in advance.

There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:05. The fastest bus covers the 315 miles (507 km) distance in 7h 45m.

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
315 miles (507 km)
Average bus duration
9h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$42 (€35)
Buses per day
5
Direct buses
4
Fastest bus
7h 45m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
49 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

Thessaloniki to Istanbul Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
12:15AM
Arrival Time
09:00AM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
05:30AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
9h20
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
06:30AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
8h20
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
06:45AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
8h05
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
9h20
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
08:45AM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
07:00AM
Duration
13h30
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
04:15AM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
08:59PM
Arrival Time
06:00AM
Duration
9h01
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
09:15PM
Arrival Time
06:00AM
Duration
8h45
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
09:59PM
Arrival Time
06:00AM
Duration
8h01
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
ArdaTur
Departure Time
11:59PM
Arrival Time
09:00AM
Duration
9h01
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$54

Live departures

Thessaloniki to Istanbul bus times

The table below shows live departures for Thessaloniki to Istanbul buses for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:30 PM Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ)
13h30
7:00 AM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)1 transfer
ArdaTur76325537:00 PM Thessaloniki
9h15
4:15 AM Istanbul0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur742746911:59 PM Thessaloniki
9h01
9:00 AM Istanbul0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, October 13
ArdaTur5:30 AM Thessaloniki
9h20
2:50 PM Istanbul0 transfersDirect
ArdaTur6:30 AM Thessaloniki
8h20
2:50 PM Istanbul0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Thessaloniki to Istanbul buses with Omio?

ArdaTur as well as Infobus or FlixBus offer buses services from Thessaloniki to Istanbul.
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 Thessaloniki 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 ArdaTur with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Thessaloniki to Istanbul.

Bus providers: ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus from Thessaloniki to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Thessaloniki to Istanbul with ArdaTur, FlixBus, Infobus for as low as $42 (€35). 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 FlixBus Duration
13h 15m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$48 (€40)
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
9h 0m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$42 (€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
7h 45m
Cheapest ArdaTur Price
$54 (€45)
ArdaTur frequency
5 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.

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.

  • Must visit

Istanbul Modern

Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.

  • Must visit

Istanbul Archaeological Museums

Major archaeology museum complex displaying masterpieces from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world.

  • Must visit

Kariye Museum

Restored church-museum famed for exceptional Byzantine mosaics and frescoes that rival the city’s most celebrated monuments.

Turkish lira (₺)

Moderate for major city breaks: dining and transit are reasonable, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more than many nearby Turkish destinations.

Average meal costs

Budget
₺250-450 for street food or simple lokanta meal.
Mid-range
₺600-1,200 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
₺1,500+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
₺90-160 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 5-10% if service not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.

FAQs: Bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thessaloniki 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Thessaloniki to Istanbul can start from as little as $42 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Thessaloniki to Istanbul is $54 (€46) ; 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 Thessaloniki to Istanbul is 7h 45m to travel the 315 miles (507 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 Thessaloniki to Istanbul leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Thessaloniki to Istanbul with ArdaTur, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul, you can count on ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Thessaloniki and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Thessaloniki , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη), Thessaloniki, Monastiriou - KTEL (Θεσσαλονίκη, Μοναστηρίου - ΚΤΕΛ) . When arriving in Istanbul , you can end your journey in bus stations like Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη), 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Thessaloniki and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul:
  • Infobus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • ArdaTur
    • Passengers with disabilities receive discounts and priority seating, and folding wheelchairs are transported free of charge with advance registration.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul for bus company ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Istanbul 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 ArdaTur, Infobus, 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 Thessaloniki to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Thessaloniki to Istanbul:
  • Infobus
    • One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
  • ArdaTur
    • One piece of hand luggage up to 15 kg and two pieces of checked luggage up to 35 kg each are included.
  • 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 Thessaloniki to Istanbul:
  • Infobus
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • ArdaTur
    • Additional baggage or cargo is accepted for transport if there is free space and for a separate charge.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul. 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 Thessaloniki to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul with the following bus company: Infobus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Thessaloniki to Istanbul with the following bus company: ArdaTur, Infobus, FlixBus.
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 Thessaloniki to Istanbul

Most Thessaloniki to Istanbul buses use the Thessaloniki (Θεσσαλονίκη) to Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) station pair. Use this guide to compare Thessaloniki and Istanbul bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Thessaloniki
Arrival bus stations in Istanbul
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, GreeceWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
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.

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