The prices shown on this page were available within the last 20 days for the specified periods and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.

Cheapest time to fly from London to Istanbul

If you’re planning to fly this route soon, keep in mind that the lowest fares are usually available at the end of February. Take advantage of this period to save on your flight tickets and make the most of your trip. Please note that prices may change after your search.

Filter by

week: 23 Feb - 1 Mar

Flights from just $55

$55

$179

$57

$101

$220

$225

$137

$120

$69

$180

$76

$88

FebruaryMarchAprilMay

Currency and cost comparison

TrainLocal, one-way ticket

83%Trains in Istanbul are 83% cheaper than in London.

London$7.85

Istanbul$1.32

MealMid-priced restaurant

60%A meal in Istanbul is 60% cheaper than a meal in London.

London$44.86

Istanbul$18.90

TaxiStandard daytime start rate

78%A taxi fare in Istanbul is 78% cheaper than in London.

London$9.42

Istanbul$2.04

CoffeeRegular cappuccino

27%Coffee in Istanbul is 27% cheaper than in London.

London$8.90

Istanbul$6.54

Exchange rate

1 NZD = 26.54 TRY

1 TRY = 0.04 NZD

Last checked on Thu, 19/02

Distance: 2501 kms

London airports

Heathrow (LHR)How far from city centre: 23 kms

Gatwick (LGW)How far from city centre: 40 kms

Luton International (LTN)How far from city centre: 43 kms

London City (LCY)How far from city centre: 12 kms

Stansted (STN)How far from city centre: 49 kms

Southend (SEN)How far from city centre: 57 kms

Istanbul airports

Istanbul Airport (IST)How far from city centre: 34 kms

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)How far from city centre: 30 kms

Guide to flying from London to Istanbul: what to expect

Istanbul offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. This remarkable city captivates visitors with its ancient mosques, bustling bazaars, and beautiful Bosphorus views. From exploring grand palaces to enjoying delicious local cuisine, Istanbul provides a truly memorable experience. Discover why so many travellers are drawn to this incredible destination where East meets West.

Flying from London to Istanbul takes approximately 4 hours, making it an ideal journey for a holiday. You can choose from several airlines offering direct flights, giving you plenty of options to suit your travel plans. For comfortable weather, consider visiting in spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). These periods offer pleasant temperatures, perfect for sightseeing without the peak summer heat. Booking your flights in advance often secures better prices, especially if your travel dates are flexible.

Airports in London

London offers several airports with direct flights to Istanbul. When planning your journey from the United Kingdom, you have multiple options to consider for your departure point.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

London Gatwick Airport, situated south of central London, is a major international gateway. It features two main terminals, North and South, both well-equipped with various dining and shopping options before security checks. This airport is a significant hub for both full-service and low-cost carriers travelling to numerous international destinations.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

London Heathrow Airport, located west of the city centre, is the busiest airport in Europe and a primary international air hub. Its extensive facilities include four operational terminals (2, 3, 4, and 5), each offering a wide array of passenger services, lounges, and retail experiences. The vast network of flights from this aerodrome connects to destinations worldwide.

London Stansted Airport (STN)

London Stansted Airport, positioned northeast of London, primarily serves as a base for many European low-cost airlines. This airport operates from a single terminal building, simplifying passenger navigation. It provides a range of amenities, including duty-free shops and food outlets, catering to a steady stream of travellers.

Airports in Istanbul

Istanbul is served by two main international airports, both of which handle flights from London. Knowing which airport you will arrive at helps with your onward travel planning.

Istanbul Airport (IST)

Istanbul Airport is the city's primary international gateway, located on the European side approximately 35 kilometres northwest of the city centre. This large facility opened in 2018 and serves as the main hub for Turkish Airlines. Travellers will find extensive duty-free shopping, a wide range of dining options, and numerous lounges. Ground transport from this major air travel hub includes HAVAIST airport shuttles, public buses, and taxis connecting to various districts across the city.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

Situated on the Anatolian side, about 35 kilometres southeast of central Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport primarily caters to budget airlines and is a hub for Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet. This well-organised airport provides a more compact and often quicker experience for passengers. From the airport, transport into the city is available via HAVABUS airport shuttles, public buses, and the M4 metro line, which offers connections to other parts of the metropolitan area.

Book your flights from London to Istanbul at the best price

Imagine the aroma of freshly brewed Turkish coffee mingling with the call to prayer echoing from ancient minarets. Istanbul awaits, a city where centuries of history seamlessly blend with contemporary life. Ready to explore its bustling bazaars, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine?

With eDreams, you can effortlessly compare flights from a wide range of airlines, ensuring you find the perfect option for your journey from London. Unlock exclusive discounts and even more savings on flights and hotels by becoming an eDreams Prime member. Or, simplify your trip planning by bundling your flight and accommodation together. Start your adventure to Istanbul today and discover the magic of this unforgettable city.

Frequently asked questions about flights from London to Istanbul

Is it safe to travel from London to Istanbul during the Covid-19 situation?

At eDreams we do our best to ensure that your travel plans won't be affected by restrictions or possible cancellations that Turkey may apply. Using the flexible ticket gurantee you can decide if you rather rebook or get a refund!

For flights from London to Istanbul, how can I find the cheapest price?

The cheapest price for a flight from London to Istanbul is 46$. At eDreams we use different machine learned based methodologies to find our costumers the best option available, considering airline combinations, stopovers and direct flights as well as different criteria for inbound and outbound journeys.

Is Istanbul more expensive than London to visit?

Looking at cab fares, a ride in Istanbul costs an average of 2.04 NZD , 78% cheaper than London, with a fare of 9.42 NZD,

while train tickets cost 83% less at Istanbul: $ 1.32 NZD versus $ 7.85 NZD at London.

Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 18.90 NZD euros in Istanbul, 58% less than the 44.86 NZD euros in London.

The price of the coffee is around 27% cheaper in Istanbul, with an average of 6.54 NZD, while in London the coffee costs 8.90 NZD.

How long does the flight from London to Istanbul take?

Flight length from London to Istanbul is around 4 hours on average, at an average distance of 2,500.77 km, for flights for the route (which may have 1 or more stops in other cities in between).

How is the weather in Istanbul compared to London?

While in London the temperatures can reach an average of 29.01 ºC in summer, with precipitation levels up to 9 mm ,Istanbul's temperatures can go up to 32.95 ºC during the hot season, with 5.3 mm average of rain rate . In winter, however, weather indicators show around -0.3 ºC in Istanbul, compared to the -3.09 ºC average degrees reported in London. During the winter period, London can register 6 mm precipitation, while Istanbul have an average of 9 mm rain level.