- Must visit
Istanbul Archaeological Museums
A major museum complex with outstanding collections from ancient Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and the classical world, including the Alexander Sarcophagus.
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Journey information
Overview: Athens to Istanbul flight
Greece
Turkey
Flights from Athens to Istanbul depart on average 27 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $55 (€45) if you book in advance.
There are 13 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:20, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 347 miles (560 km) distance in 1h 20m. April is the cheapest month to fly.
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 347 miles (560 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $55 (€45) |
Flights per day 27 |
Direct flights 13 |
Fastest flight 1h 20m |
First flight 12:20 AM |
Last flight 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 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
The cheapest and fastest flights from Athens to Istanbul
Showing times and prices for Jun 26
Cheapest price
$128
Average price
$577
Fastest journey
1 h 25 m
Average duration
1 h 28 m
Flights per day
36
Distance
560 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Athens to Istanbul is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Istanbul will cost around $577 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $128.
Fast flights
Of the 36 flights that leave Athens for Istanbul onFri, Jun 26, 16 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 26 the direct flights cover the 560 km distance in an average of 1 h 28 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 25 m .
On Fri, Jun 26 the longest flights will take 1 h 30 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.
PC11948:25 PM1h25Athens International Airport9:50 PMIstanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport$1281One-way0 transfers
A3300 · A34346:35 AM10h00Athens International Airport4:35 PMIstanbul Airport$1341One-way1 transfer- A3102 · A35047:00 AM9h35Athens International Airport4:35 PMIstanbul Airport$1571One-way1 transfer
- A3104 · A35048:00 AM8h35Athens International Airport4:35 PMIstanbul Airport$1571One-way1 transfer
- A3116 · A35041:10 PM3h25Athens International Airport4:35 PMIstanbul Airport$1571One-way1 transfer
- PC119210:25 AM1h25Athens International Airport11:50 AMIstanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport$2041One-way0 transfers
- PC11948:25 PM1h25Athens International Airport9:50 PMIstanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport$1281One-way0 transfers
- A39946:25 PM1h30Athens International Airport7:55 PMIstanbul Airport$2031One-way0 transfers
- TK91946:25 PM1h30Athens International Airport7:55 PMIstanbul Airport$4271One-way0 transfers
A331623:55 AM1h30Athens International Airport5:25 AMIstanbul Airport$6121One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare flight for Athens to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Athens to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $55, and a flight costs an average of $55.
Distance: 347 miles (560 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|
$135 Average price Cheapest | $311 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Athens to Istanbul is a flight with an average price of $135 (€112).
The fastest way to travel from Athens to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 0m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 0m.
Yes, you can take a flight between Athens and Istanbul.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Athens to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Live departures
Athens to Istanbul flight times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Istanbul flights for today, Thursday, June 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 AZ717+AZ7034 | 6:05 AM Athens International Airport | 17h30 | 11:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AZ717+AZ7032 | 6:05 AM Athens International Airport | 8h35 | 2:40 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AZ717+AZ7050 | 6:05 AM Athens International Airport | 12h15 | 6:20 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AZ717+AZ7060 | 6:05 AM Athens International Airport | 9h20 | 3:25 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| A3300 · A3434 | 6:35 AM Athens International Airport | 4h45 | 11:20 AM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| A3352 · A3438 | 7:00 AM Athens International Airport | 8h35 | 3:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
 GQ670 | 7:00 AM Athens International Airport | 1h30 | 8:30 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| A3348 · A3438 | 8:00 AM Athens International Airport | 7h35 | 3:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| A3990 | 8:10 AM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 9:45 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TK9190 | 8:10 AM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 9:45 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| A3354 · A3438 | 10:15 AM Athens International Airport | 5h20 | 3:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| TK1844 | 10:25 AM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 12:00 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| PC1192 | 10:25 AM Athens International Airport | 1h25 | 11:50 AM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| A3356 · A3438 | 11:05 AM Athens International Airport | 4h30 | 3:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AZ719+AZ7034 | 12:00 PM Athens International Airport | 11h35 | 11:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| AZ719+AZ7050 | 12:00 PM Athens International Airport | 6h20 | 6:20 PM Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| A3992 | 1:00 PM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 2:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TK9192 | 1:00 PM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 2:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| AZ715+AZ7034 | 1:20 PM Athens International Airport | 10h15 | 11:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
 G9685 · G9321 | 2:05 PM Athens International Airport | 23h15 | 1:20 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| G9685 · G9287 | 2:05 PM Athens International Airport | 27h10 | 5:15 PM Istanbul Airport | 1 transfer | |
| TK1850 | 3:40 PM Athens International Airport | 1h40 | 5:20 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| A3994 | 6:25 PM Athens International Airport | 1h30 | 7:55 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TK1846 | 10:00 PM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 11:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| A33150 | 10:00 PM Athens International Airport | 1h35 | 11:35 PM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TK1842 | 3:55 AM Athens International Airport | 1h30 | 5:25 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| A33162 | 3:55 AM Athens International Airport | 1h30 | 5:25 AM Istanbul Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
How far in advance should I book flight tickets from Athens to Istanbul?
The best time to book your flight from Athens to Istanbul is 49 days before departure. See how prices for flights change on the Athens to Istanbul route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Athens to Istanbul per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your flight from Athens to Istanbul.
Flights
from $312Buses
from $90Compare prices and tickets Athens to Istanbul by flight
Compare 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 Athens to Istanbul flights with Omio?
pegasus as well as Aegean Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and more offer flights services from Athens to Istanbul.
Omio is the only official third party seller for pegasus tickets.
Why book with Omio vs pegasus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for pegasus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Aegean Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Turkish Airlines or Qatar Airways to find the best option for your trip from Athens 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.
Airlines: pegasus, Aegean Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways from Athens to IstanbulFind the best flights between Athens to Istanbul with Omio's travel partners pegasus, Aegean Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways from $55 (€45). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Turkish Airlines
About
Turkish Airlines is the national flag carrier of Turkey and one of the world’s leading airlines, flying to more international destinations than any other airline. Based in Istanbul, it connects travelers to Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and beyond. Passengers can choose from Economy Class with comfortable seating, WiFi, and in-flight entertainment, or upgrade to Business Class for spacious seating, gourmet dining, and lounge access. With its award-winning service and global reach, Turkish Airlines is a top choice for both business and leisure travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$208 (€172)
Turkish Airlines frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag (8kg, 55x40x23cm) + personal item (4kg, 40x30x15cm)
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Fees vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. After that, cancellation fees apply based on fare type and timing.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly until 28th week without medical clearance. Between 28-36 weeks, medical certificate required. Not allowed after 36 weeks.
Unaccompagned minor
UNACCOMPANIED minor service available for children aged 7-12. Children 12+ can travel alone. Service must be booked at least 48 hours before departure.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Turkish Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Advance notice required.
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin (max 8kg including carrier) and cargo hold. Must be booked in advance.
Entertaiment on board
Qatar Airways
About
Qatar Airways is the national airline of Qatar, headquartered in Doha and based at Hamad International Airport. Established in 1993 and re-launched in 1997, it has grown into one of the Middle East's largest network airlines, operating an extensive network of international services across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and the Americas. The airline offers passenger and air cargo transportation, along with services like corporate travel, online check-in, and in-flight entertainment. Qatar Airways is a member of the Oneworld alliance and operates a modern fleet of over 200 aircraft. It has received numerous accolades, including "World's Best Airline" multiple times.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Qatar Airways frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
Economy Classic includes 25kg checked baggage and 7kg hand baggage (50x37x25cm)
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be purchased online or at the airport. Fees vary by route.
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on fare type. Most flexible fares offer full refund, while restricted fares may be non-refundable.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers can travel up to 28th week without medical certificate. Between 29-36 weeks, medical certificate required. Not allowed after 36 weeks.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-15. Service must be booked in advance. Children under 5 cannot travel alone.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Qatar Airways provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with reduced mobility. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before flight.
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin (max 6kg including carrier) on select routes. Larger animals travel as cargo.
Entertaiment on board
pegasus
About
Pegasus Airlines is a Turkish low-cost airline headquartered in Istanbul. Founded in 1990 as a charter airline, it was acquired by Esas Holding in 2005 and relaunched as a scheduled low-cost carrier. Pegasus aims to provide affordable point-to-point transportation on short and medium-range flights, establishing a wide network with high frequency. As of July 2024, Pegasus operates flights to 148 destinations in 53 countries across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The airline is known for its young fleet and focus on punctual departures.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
pegasus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 personal item (35x20x20 cm) included
Additional luggage
Additional cabin bag and checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available within 24 hours of booking for flights more than 7 days away
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 28th week without medical clearance, between 28-35 weeks require medical certificate, not allowed after 36th week
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 7-12 can travel as unaccompanied minors with service fee. Must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Pegasus provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Wheelchair service is available.
Pets
Small pets in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance.
Entertaiment on board
Aegean Airlines
About
Aegean Airlines is the flag carrier of Greece and a leading airline in Southeastern Europe, connecting travelers to destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Operating from its main hubs in Athens and Thessaloniki, Aegean offers a modern fleet and high-quality service. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks on most flights, and additional perks in Business Class such as lounge access, premium dining, and extra comfort. With affordable fares and strong regional connectivity, Aegean Airlines is a trusted choice for exploring Greece and beyond.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
Aegean Airlines frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (max 8kg, 56x45x25cm) and 1 personal item (max 40x20x25cm)
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage, additional fees apply for extra weight
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets available with flex fare option, non-refundable tickets can be changed for a fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to the 36th week without medical certificate, after that requires doctor's approval
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with mandatory assistance service. Ages 12-17 optional assistance
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested at least 48h before departure
Pets
Small pets allowed in cabin, max 8kg including carrier. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Sichuan Airlines
About
Sichuan Airlines, established in 1986 and headquartered in Chengdu, Sichuan, China, operates the largest Airbus fleet in the country, comprising over 200 aircraft. Serving more than 300 routes, it connects destinations across Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and North America. The airline emphasizes safety and service quality, consistently ranking among China's top carriers. Sichuan Airlines offers a range of cabin classes, including Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class, each designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience. Passengers can enjoy a variety of in-flight entertainment options and meals featuring Sichuan cuisine. The airline's commitment to excellence is reflected in its robust customer support and dedication to passenger satisfaction.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€56)
Sichuan Airlines frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Hand luggage up to 8 kg and checked baggage up to 15 kg included.
Additional luggage
Extra baggage can be added for a fee.
Luggage storage
Checked baggage is stored in the aircraft hold.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations are permitted up to 6 hours before departure with a €45 fee; after this period, cancellations are treated as a no-show.
Unaccompagned minor
Service available for children aged 5 to 12; must be requested at least 24 hours before departure.
Amenities on board the airplane
Food sold onboard
Complimentary snacks and beverages are provided during the flight.
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
Turkey’s leading modern and contemporary art museum, known for its strong permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and Bosphorus setting.
- Recommended
Pera Museum
A respected private museum featuring Orientalist paintings, Anatolian weights and measures, Kütahya tiles, and rotating contemporary exhibitions.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
The historic heart of old Istanbul, placing Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and major imperial monuments within an easy walking area.
- Must visit
Istiklal Avenue
Istanbul’s most famous pedestrian avenue, lined with historic passages, shops, cultural venues, and constant city energy.
- Recommended
Galataport
A newly redeveloped waterfront promenade popular for Bosphorus walks, architecture, and contemporary city views shared widely on social media.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Simit
Ring-shaped sesame bread sold by street vendors and bakeries. It is a daily Istanbul staple, especially for breakfast or with tea by the Bosphorus.
Balık Ekmek
A classic Istanbul street food of grilled fish served in bread with onions and salad, especially associated with Eminönü and the waterfront.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kuru Fasulye
Slow-cooked white beans in a rich tomato-based sauce, often eaten with rice and pickles. It is a beloved home-style comfort dish across the city.
Çiya Sofrası
Beloved Kadıköy restaurant celebrated for regional Anatolian cooking, including seasonal stews, meze, and dishes rarely found elsewhere.
Hamdi Restaurant
Well-known kebab restaurant in Eminönü with views over the Golden Horn, famous for kebabs, lahmacun, and traditional southeastern flavors.
Karaköy Lokantası
Stylish, established lokanta serving refined Turkish classics and meze, popular for both lunch and elegant evening meals.
Turkish Lira
Moderate for tourists: food and transit are fairly priced, while hotels in central areas can be costly in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- TRY 200-350 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 80-150 for a café coffee.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 5-10% is common if service is not included. Cafés: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up the fare. Hotel porters: TRY 20-50 per bag.
Istanbul Senin
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 17.70 TRY
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Istanbul Airport, Istanbul -> Taksim Square, Istanbul
- Distance
- 40 km
- Travel time
- 45 min
- Use an Istanbulkart for metros, trams, ferries, and buses; single-use fares are higher than card-based fares.
- Card payment is generally not available onboard city buses and trams, so load credit onto an Istanbulkart in advance.
FAQs: Athens to Istanbul Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens 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.
Cheap plane tickets from Athens to Istanbul can start from as little as $55 (€45) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Athens to Istanbul is $135 (€112) ; 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 plane from Athens to Istanbul is 1h 20m to travel the 347 miles (560 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Athens to Istanbul leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Athens to Istanbul leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 13 direct flights a day from Athens to Istanbul with pegasus, Aegean Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Turkish Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Athens to Istanbul, you can count on pegasus, Aegean Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Athens and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Athens to Istanbul generally leave from Athens International Airport and arrive in Istanbul Airport.Athens International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) away from Athens city centre and Istanbul Airport is 19 miles (32 km) from Istanbul city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Athens to Istanbul is April.
Yes, you can take a flight between Athens and Istanbul.
Istanbul is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Athens 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.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Athens and Istanbul in winter.
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 events to attend in Istanbul include:
- Istanbul Film Festival, an annual event showcasing international and Turkish films
- Istanbul Music Festival, a celebration of classical music featuring renowned artists
- Istanbul Biennial, a contemporary art exhibition held every two years with global participation
- Istanbul Tulip Festival, a month-long festival celebrating the city's tulip heritage with colorful displays throughout parks.
The best holidays to experience in Istanbul include:
- Republic Day, national pride and celebrations on October 29
- Eid al-Fitr, festive atmosphere marking the end of Ramadan with family gatherings in April or May
- Eid al-Adha, significant religious holiday with communal prayers and feasts in June or July
- New Year's Eve, lively celebrations welcoming the new year with fireworks and parties on December 31.
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.
The best season to visit Istanbul is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Istanbul is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Athens to Istanbul among Omio's users.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 airports
Popular airports from Athens to Istanbul
Most Athens to Istanbul flights use the Athens International Airport to Istanbul Airport airport pair, with some services landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. Use this guide to compare Athens and Istanbul airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Athens
Arrival airports in Istanbul
Which Athens airport do flights to Istanbul leave from?
Flights from Athens to Istanbul depart from Athens International Airport. The airport is 2 miles (4 km) from Athens city centre at Attiki Odos, Spata Artemida 190 04, Greece.
Athens International Airport (ATH)Attiki Odos, Spata Artemida 190 04, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Athens International Airport from Athens city centre
Athens International Airport is 4 km from Athens city centre. Public transport options include:
Train1200, 1202, 1204, 1206, 1208, 1210, 1212, 1214, 1216, 1218, 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226, 1228, 1230, 1232, 1234 · 55m · $6 · every ~2 min
BusΧ95 · 1h 6m · $7 · every ~12 min
Χ93 · 1h 11m · $7 · every ~5 min
SubwayM3 · 50m · $11 · every ~4 min
M3 · 53m · $11 · every ~4 min
Athens International Airport airport facilities and services
Athens International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport for 45 minutes. ATMs are located throughout the airport, including arrivals and departures areas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Athens International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Athens International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Which Istanbul airport do flights from Athens arrive at?
Flights from Athens to Istanbul most often arrive at Istanbul Airport. Some flights land at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Istanbul arrival airport.
Istanbul Airport (IST)Tayakadın, Terminal Cad No:1, 34283 Arnavutköy/İstanbul, Turkey
City-centre transport
Getting to Istanbul Airport from Istanbul city centre
Istanbul Airport is 32 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainM11 · 57m · $2 · every ~8 min
BusHvl-3 · 1h 15m · $8 · every ~3 min
Shuttle43m
45m
Istanbul Airport airport facilities and services
Istanbul Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport for two hours. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering services from various banks.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Istanbul Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW)Sanayi, 34906 Pendik/Istanbul, Turkey
City-centre transport
Getting to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport from Istanbul city centre
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is 7 km from Istanbul city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainM4 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~28 min
BusSg-2 · 1h 55m · $8 · every ~4 min
Shuttle42m · $25
45m
53m
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport airport facilities and services
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.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in arrivals and departures areas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport: Ramps, assistance.
More options for your journey from Athens to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Istanbul and Athens
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