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Istanbul Modern
Leading contemporary art museum on the Bosphorus with strong Turkish and international exhibitions in a landmark waterfront building.
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Journey information
Overview: Kars to Istanbul flight
TurkeyTurkey
Flights from Kars to Istanbul depart on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 20m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $39 (€32) by bus.
There are 3 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:35, the last at 21:40. The fastest flight covers the 739 miles (1190 km) distance in 2h 10m. March 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $39 (€32)
Distance 739 miles (1190 km) |
Average flight duration 2h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Flights per day 3 |
Direct flights 3 |
Fastest flight 2h 10m |
First flight 12:35 AM |
Last flight 9:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $39 (€32)
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Kars to Istanbul
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Kars to Istanbul among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, and a flight costs an average of $50.
Distance: 739 miles (1190 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$104 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $213 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 23h 14m Average total duration 22h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Kars to Istanbul is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Kars to Istanbul:
A bus is $60 (€49) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kars to Istanbul costing on average $104 (€85).
The fastest way to travel from Kars to Istanbul is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 20m.
Other travel options to Istanbul take longer:
Bus takes on average 22h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kars and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Kars to Istanbul among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Kars 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 Kars to Istanbul flights with Omio?
Turkish Airlines as well as Pegasus offer flights services from Kars to Istanbul.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kars to Istanbul.
Why book with Omio vs Turkish Airlines?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Turkish Airlines, but also compare tickets for the likes of Pegasus to find the best option for your trip from Kars 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 Turkish Airlines with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kars to Istanbul.
Why book with Omio over Skyscanner, Trip or Edreams?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Pegasus to find the best option for your trip from Kars to Istanbul.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Kars to Istanbul.
Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Pegasus from Kars to IstanbulFind the best flights between Kars to Istanbul with Omio's travel partners Turkish Airlines, Pegasus from $39 (€32). 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
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€78)
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
Pegasus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
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 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.
- Must visit
Sultanahmet Square
Historic square between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, ideal for walking among Istanbul’s greatest imperial monuments.
- Must visit
İstiklal Avenue
Lively pedestrian avenue lined with historic passages, shops, consulates, and culture venues in the heart of Beyoğlu.
- Must visit
Galata Neighborhood
Historic uphill quarter around the tower with narrow lanes, old facades, and photogenic walks toward Karaköy.
Adana Kebab
Grilled minced lamb kebab from southeastern Turkey, served with vegetables and lavash. A staple in Istanbul kebab houses and a classic local favorite.
- Gluten-free
Midye Dolma
Rice pilaf, currants, pine nuts, and herbs stuffed into mussel shells. A famous Istanbul street food, especially along waterfront districts.
- Vegetarian
Baklava
Layers of thin dough with pistachios or walnuts and syrup. An Ottoman dessert strongly associated with Istanbul's historic sweet shops.
Matbah Restaurant
Historic Sultanahmet restaurant known for refined Ottoman dishes and elegant service in a classic setting near major sights.
Asmalı Cavit
Beloved meyhane in Beyoğlu serving classic meze, rakı, and seasonal seafood in a lively, traditional tavern environment.
Balıkçı Sabahattin
Established Bosphorus fish restaurant known for fresh seafood, meze, and water views. A polished choice for a classic Istanbul dinner.
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: Kars to Istanbul Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kars 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 Kars to Istanbul can start from as little as $50 (€41) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Kars to Istanbul is $104 (€85) ; 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 Kars to Istanbul is 2h 10m to travel the 739 miles (1190 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 Kars to Istanbul leaves at 12:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Kars to Istanbul leaves at 9:40 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct flights a day from Kars to Istanbul with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Kars to Istanbul, you can count on Turkish Airlines, Pegasus for the best way to get you to Istanbul. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Kars and Istanbul and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Kars to Istanbul generally leave from Kars and arrive in Istanbul Airport.Kars is 2 miles (4 km) away from Kars city centre and Istanbul Airport is 19 miles (32 km) from Istanbul city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Kars to Istanbul is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kars and Istanbul including taking a bus and flight.
Since neither Kars nor Istanbul are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of Türkiye and Türkiye. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is no time difference between Kars and 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.
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 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 Kars to Istanbul among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 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 Kars to Istanbul
Most Kars to Istanbul flights use the Kars to Istanbul Airport airport pair, with some services landing at Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport. Use this guide to compare Kars and Istanbul airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Kars
Arrival airports in Istanbul
Which Kars airport do flights to Istanbul leave from?
Flights from Kars to Istanbul depart from Kars. The airport is 3 miles (5 km) from Kars city centre at Kars Harakani Airport, Yenişehir, 36000 Kars Merkez/Kars, Türkiye.
Kars (KSY)Kars Harakani Airport, Yenişehir, 36000 Kars Merkez/Kars, Türkiye
City-centre transport
Getting to Kars from Kars city centre
Kars is 4 km from Kars city centre. Public transport options include:
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Kars airport facilities and services
Kars has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: There is a cafeteria available for travelers.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kars.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kars: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kars: Terminal is accessible for persons with reduced mobility.
Which Istanbul airport do flights from Kars arrive at?
Flights from Kars 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 · $9 · 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 · $9 · every ~4 min
Shuttle42m · $26
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 Kars to Istanbul
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Istanbul and Kars
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