- Must visit
Istanbul Modern
Türkiye’s leading museum of modern and contemporary art on the Karaköy waterfront, known for major Turkish and international exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Zagreb to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$99
Fastest journey
22 h 10 m
Average duration
22 h 10 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
1174 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Zagreb to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zagreb to Istanbul will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Zagreb to Istanbul without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus8:20 PM22h10Zagreb, Bus Station7:30 PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$991One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:20 PM22h10Zagreb, Bus Station7:30 PMIstanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler)$991One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Zagreb to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zagreb to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $77. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, and a flight costs an average of $76.
Distance: 729 miles (1174 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$102 Average price Cheapest | $173 Average price | $306 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
21h 26m Average total duration 20h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 46m 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 Zagreb to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $102 (€82).
This is compared to other travel options from Zagreb to Istanbul:
A bus is $72 (€58) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zagreb to Istanbul costing on average $173 (€140).
The fastest way to travel from Zagreb to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 53m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 20h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zagreb and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zagreb 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.
Zagreb to Istanbul Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 23h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 22h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $88 |
Live departures
Zagreb to Istanbul bus times
The table below shows live departures for Zagreb to Istanbul buses for today, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:20 PM Zagreb, Bus Station | 22h10 | 7:30 PM Istanbul, Buyuk Otogar (Esenler) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Zagreb to Istanbul.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zagreb to Istanbul.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Zagreb to Istanbul
Croatia
Turkey
Buses from Zagreb to Istanbul run on average 1 times per day, taking around 20h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $77 (€62) but you can travel from only $76 (€61) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 05:45, the last at 23:00. The fastest bus covers the 729 miles (1174 km) distance in 22h 10m.
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 $76 (€61)
Distance 729 miles (1174 km) |
Average bus duration 20h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€62) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 22h 10m |
First bus 5:45 AM |
Last bus 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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 $76 (€61)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Zagreb to IstanbulYou can travel by bus between Zagreb to Istanbul with FlixBus for as low as $76 (€61). 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
22h 10m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€62)
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.
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
Topkapı Palace Museum
The former Ottoman imperial palace with treasury, courtyards, and imperial collections that reveal centuries of court life.
- Recommended
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
A major complex of archaeology museums near Gülhane, famous for classical antiquities and artifacts from ancient civilizations.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
The historic heart of old Istanbul, surrounded by major monuments and ideal for first-time visitors exploring on foot.
- Must visit
Istiklal Avenue
The city’s best-known pedestrian avenue, lined with historic buildings, shops, passages, galleries, and constant urban energy.
- Recommended
Galataport Waterfront
A fashionable Bosphorus promenade in Karaköy that has become highly popular for strolling, views, and contemporary city atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
A ring-shaped bread crusted with sesame seeds, widely eaten in Istanbul for breakfast or as a street snack with tea and cheese.
Balık Ekmek
A classic Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread with salad and onion, especially associated with the Eminönü waterfront.
- Gluten-free
Kuru Fasulye
A traditional Turkish stew of white beans, often cooked with butter or meat and commonly served with rice in Istanbul lokantas.
Mikla
One of Istanbul's best-known fine dining restaurants, blending Turkish ingredients with modern technique and offering panoramic city views.
Karaköy Lokantası
A stylish, established lokanta serving refined Turkish home-style dishes and meze, popular for both lunch and evening dining.
Hamdi Restaurant
Well-known terrace restaurant near Eminönü, famous for kebabs, pistachio specialties, and sweeping views over the Golden Horn.
Turkish Lira
Moderate for tourists: local food and transit are affordable, 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 400-900 per person at a mid-range 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. Round up taxis. Small tips for hotel staff are appreciated; not expected for fast food.
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
- 50 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for Metro, Tram, Ferry and Bus fares; single-use paper tickets cost more per ride.
- Card payment is generally not accepted onboard IETT buses and trams for regular fares, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
FAQs: Bus from Zagreb to Istanbul
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul can start from as little as $77 (€62) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Zagreb to Istanbul is $102 (€82) ; 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 Zagreb to Istanbul is 22h 10m to travel the 729 miles (1174 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 Zagreb to Istanbul leaves at 5:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Zagreb to Istanbul leaves at 11:00 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Zagreb to Istanbul which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Zagreb to Istanbul, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Zagreb and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Zagreb, Bus Station, which is located around 1 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 Zagreb is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 22h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Zagreb to Istanbul is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zagreb and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Zagreb to Istanbul for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Zagreb to Istanbul:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Zagreb to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Zagreb to Istanbul with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Zagreb 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 Zagreb 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 Zagreb to Istanbul
Zagreb
Istanbul
The major bus station for departures in Zagreb is Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor for your trip from Zagreb to Istanbul.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
Avenija Marina DržićaWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Zagreb (in the station)
- Bakery Delight (in the station)
- Fast Food Corner (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Zagreb, Autobusni Kolodvor
- Bus: 5, 7, 8 Tram: 2, 6
The major bus station for arrivals in Istanbul is Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler) for your trip to Istanbul from Zagreb.
Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Distance to city center
5 kmCar connection
O-3 OtoyoluWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Terminal (in the station)
- Kebab Express (0.2 km)
- Simit Sarayı (0.3 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Istanbul, Büyük Otogari (Esenler)
- Metro: M1A Bus: 83O, 91E, 97G
Most popular bus connections from Zagreb
More options for your journey from Zagreb to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Istanbul and Zagreb
Most popular bus connections to Istanbul
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