- Must visit
Istanbul Modern
Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.
Flights from Ankara to Istanbul depart on average 22 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at kr179 but you can travel from only kr127 by bus.
There are 20 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 218 miles (352 km) distance in 1h 5m. January is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 218 miles (352 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price kr179 |
Flights per day 22 |
Direct flights 20 |
Fastest flight 1h 5m |
First flight 12:05 AM |
Last flight 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 77 days |
Cheapest price
kr254
Average price
kr1336
Fastest journey
1 h 10 m
Average duration
1 h 10 m
Flights per day
24
Distance
352 km
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Ankara to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ankara to Istanbul will cost around kr1336 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr254.
Of the 24 flights that leave Ankara for Istanbul onWed, Aug 05, 21 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct flights cover the 352 km distance in an average of 1 h 10 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 10 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the longest flights will take 1 h 10 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.
PC2663
PC2665
PC2669
PC2667
PC2677
TK2193
TK2189
TK2175
PC2679
PC2669Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Ankara to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr127. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr127, and a flight costs an average of kr179.
Distance: 218 miles (352 km)
| Flight | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr334 Average price | kr160 Average price Cheapest | kr543 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 2m Average total duration 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.1 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Ankara to Istanbul:
A bus is kr175 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ankara to Istanbul costing on average kr334.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 32m.
The table below shows live departures for Ankara to Istanbul flights for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TK2189 | 1:45 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 2:55 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2193 | 3:55 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 5:05 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2677 | 5:50 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 7:00 AM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2679 | 6:45 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 7:55 AM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2117 | 7:50 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h20 | 9:10 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2474 · PC3304 | 7:55 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 4h00 | 11:55 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
TK2123 | 8:55 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h15 | 10:10 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2663 | 9:15 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 10:25 AM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2127 | 10:40 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h20 | 12:00 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2665 | 11:25 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 12:35 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2135 | 11:50 AM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h20 | 1:10 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2139 | 1:00 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h20 | 2:20 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2478 · PC3300 | 1:15 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 6h10 | 7:25 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
PC2667 | 2:15 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 3:25 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2151 | 2:55 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h20 | 4:15 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2155 | 3:55 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h25 | 5:20 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2159 | 4:55 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h15 | 6:10 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2163 | 6:00 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h20 | 7:20 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2669 | 6:55 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 8:05 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2167 | 6:55 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h15 | 8:10 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2671 | 8:55 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 10:05 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
TK2175 | 9:35 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h10 | 10:45 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
PC2476 · PC3306 | 10:10 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 9h45 | 7:55 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
TK2183 | 10:50 PM Ankara Esenboga International Airport | 1h15 | 12:05 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Discover the best of Istanbul — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Istanbul trip today.
Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.
Major archaeology museum complex displaying masterpieces from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world.
Restored church-museum famed for exceptional Byzantine mosaics and frescoes that rival the city’s most celebrated monuments.
Historic square between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, ideal for walking among Istanbul’s greatest imperial monuments.
Lively pedestrian avenue lined with historic passages, shops, consulates, and culture venues in the heart of Beyoğlu.
Historic uphill quarter around the tower with narrow lanes, old facades, and photogenic walks toward Karaköy.
Grilled minced lamb kebab from southeastern Turkey, served with vegetables and lavash. A staple in Istanbul kebab houses and a classic local favorite.
Rice pilaf, currants, pine nuts, and herbs stuffed into mussel shells. A famous Istanbul street food, especially along waterfront districts.
Layers of thin dough with pistachios or walnuts and syrup. An Ottoman dessert strongly associated with Istanbul's historic sweet shops.
Historic Sultanahmet restaurant known for refined Ottoman dishes and elegant service in a classic setting near major sights.
Beloved meyhane in Beyoğlu serving classic meze, rakı, and seasonal seafood in a lively, traditional tavern environment.
Established Bosphorus fish restaurant known for fresh seafood, meze, and water views. A polished choice for a classic Istanbul dinner.
Moderate for major city breaks: dining and transit are reasonable, but central hotels and tourist areas cost more than many nearby Turkish destinations.
Restaurants: 5-10% if service not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare; larger tips are optional.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ankara to Istanbul by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Istanbul, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Ankara to Istanbul flights use the Ankara Esenboga International Airport to Istanbul Airport airport pair, with some services landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. Use this guide to compare Ankara and Istanbul airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Ankara Esenboga International Airport is 7 km from Ankara city centre. Public transport options include:
Ankara Esenboga International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in both domestic and international terminals.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ankara Esenboga International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ankara Esenboga International Airport: Ramps, assistance.
Istanbul Airport is 32 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
Istanbul Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport for two hours. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering services from various banks.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Istanbul Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is 7 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in arrivals and departures areas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport: Ramps, assistance.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need