Book Flights to Istanbul starting from CNY3,498

Book flights to Istanbul and explore Turkey’s largest city

Istanbul is full of culture, energy, and endless ways to explore. Its streets hum with life, and every moment brings something new to experience. Whether you’re wandering through Bazaar District, marvelling at the historic Hagia Sophia, or taking a ferry for top-notch views across the waterways, you’ll be completely immersed in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Book flights to Istanbul and step into a place where history meets modern life, every street tells a story, and every experience leaves a lasting impression.

Book international flights to Istanbul with Etihad, the national airline of the UAE, and travel in comfort from start to finish. On board, you can choose from a wide range of entertainment, relax in modern aircraft built for a smooth journey, and receive attentive support from our crew. We make reaching Istanbul effortless, setting the tone for an unforgettable Turkish adventure.

 

The benefits of flying with Etihad for flights to Istanbul

Book Istanbul flight tickets with us and enjoy a journey that feels seamless from takeoff to landing. As the national airline of the UAE, we make each mile easy and comfortable. Here’s what awaits when you choose to fly with us:

• Onboard Wi-Fi and entertainment: Stay connected and entertained with our on board Wi-Fi and E-BOX inflight entertainment, making your flight to Istanbul engaging from start to finish.
• Our modern fleet: Travel on fuel-efficient Boeing and Airbus aircraft, equipped with the latest technology and safety features, so you can fly to Istanbul with confidence
• Special assistance: On Istanbul flights and beyond, we provide help for mobility or medical needs, including wheelchairs and meet-and-assist services, and for families with children, including priority boarding, on board entertainment, and child-friendly meals.
• Etihad Guest benefits: As an Etihad Guest member, you can earn miles on flights to Istanbul and redeem them for exciting rewards like airfare and upgrades, as well as other benefits with our partners.

 

Flights to Istanbul: Key travel details

If you’re planning to book Istanbul flight tickets, here’s what you need to make your trip simple and stress-free — from the best time to visit and visa requirements, to key information about the airport and other insights:

Weather information

Istanbul experiences a mix of seasonal weather. Summers from June to August are bright and sunny, perfect for wandering through bustling streets and markets, while winters from December to February bring cooler temperatures with occasional rain or snow. The ideal time to fly to Istanbul is in spring, from March to May, or autumn, from September to November. This is when the weather is mild and comfortable, making it easier to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Airport information: Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport serves as a major gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it one of the busiest and most important airports in the world. Situated at Tayakadın, Terminal Caddesi No: 1, in Arnavutköy, it is Turkey’s largest airport, connecting passengers to 350 destinations across 110 countries. The airport combines cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly design, offering smooth services and a seamless travel experience for those flying to Istanbul. The IATA code for Istanbul Airport is IST.

Visa requirements for Istanbul

The need for a visa depends on your nationality. If you have a valid residence permit or visa from the Schengen Area, the U.S., the UK, or Ireland, you might qualify for a single-entry e-visa. Contact your nearest consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date guidance before you book flights to Turkey.

Visit visa validity: A single-entry tourist visa lets you stay in Turkey for up to 30 days.

Requirements for Turkey tourist visa

• Original and copies of valid passport
• Copies of old passports, if any
• Copies of other countries’ visa and residence permits, valid and expired, if any
• Residence ID and visa, if applicable
• Biometric photos
• Round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel reservation
• Original and stamped bank statements
• Proof of accommodation in your country of residence
• No objection certificate from employer

Currency and language information

• Currency: Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY) as its currency. To make your trip easier, consider exchanging money or withdrawing cash when you arrive in Istanbul.
• Language: Turkish is the primary language in Istanbul, though English is also commonly spoken in popular tourist spots.

 

Istanbul: The only city in the world that spans two continents

Experience Istanbul, a city bursting with creativity, tradition, and endless experiences that spark curiosity. Wander through bustling streets lined with markets, savour the rich flavours of its local cuisine, and admire iconic landmarks that tell the city’s story. As the sun sets, Istanbul comes alive with vibrant nightlife, from lively cafés to music-filled streets that keep the energy flowing. Book flights to Istanbul and discover a destination where culture thrives and adventures await around every corner.

Things to do in Istanbul

Istanbul blends modern energy with rich history, creating a city full of life and discovery. Here are some top experiences to explore when you visit Istanbul:

• Explore İstanbul’s Bazaar District: Wander through the vibrant lanes of this Bazaar when you travel to Istanbul. Discover hidden gems and find unique keepsakes that capture the spirit of the city.
• Marvel at the Hagia Sophia: Stop by Hagia Sophia on your trip to Istanbul and take in its soaring dome, glittering mosaics, and rich history as both church and mosque. Explore the upper gallery to see centuries of art and architecture.
• Hop aboard a ferry for top-notch views: Take a ferry when you visit Istanbul and enjoy stunning sights along the Bosphorus, from palaces and parks to ornate mansions on both the Asian and European shores.
• Experience hamam treatment in a bath house: Fly to Istanbul and visit a traditional hamam, where warm water, soap, and centuries-old architecture create a unique experience.

 

Your gateway to Istanbul: Cities you can fly from with Etihad

Flights to Turkey are easy with us. We connect you to over 100 destinations worldwide, making it simple and stress-free to reach Istanbul no matter where you’re travelling from.

Middle East

Fly to Istanbul from major cities across the Middle East. Begin your journey from these top cities in the region:

• Abu Dhabi: There are usually up to two nonstop flights from Abu Dhabi to Istanbul daily, depending on the schedule. The earliest flight usually departs in the morning, at around 02:15.
• Riyadh: There are usually up to five one-stop flights from Riyadh to Istanbul per day, depending on the schedule. The earliest flight usually departs in the morning, at around 04:20.
• Jeddah: We usually have up to four one-stop flights from Jeddah to Istanbul per day, depending on the schedule. The earliest flight usually departs in the morning, at around 02:50.
• Dammam: We usually have up to five one-stop flights from Dammam to Istanbul per day, depending on the schedule. The earliest flight usually departs in the morning, at around 04:10.

Asia and Australia

Travel to Turkey’s biggest city from key destinations across Asia, with a convenient stopover in Abu Dhabi. Book Istanbul flight tickets and start your seamless journey from these cities.

• Kuala Lumpur: There are usually up to three one-stop flights from Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul daily, depending on the schedule. The flights usually depart in the morning, at around 09:50.
• Jakarta: There are usually up to three one-stop flights from Jakarta to Istanbul per day, depending on the schedule. The earliest flight usually departs in the morning, at around 00:45.
• New Delhi: We usually have up to six one-stop flights from New Delhi to Istanbul per day, depending on the schedule. The earliest flight usually departs in the morning, at around 04:50.
• Sydney: We usually offer up to three one-stop flights from Sydney to Istanbul daily, depending on the day. The schedule is usually in the afternoon, at around 15:40.

*Refer to etihad.com for the most up-to-date flight status and details, including flight times, schedules, and daily departures, as these are subject to change.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

 

What benefits come with flying in Business?

Flying Business to Istanbul with us gives you spacious seats, unlimited fine dining, luxury amenity kits with ESPA products, access to exclusive lounges, chauffeur service for eligible fares, and personalised service throughout your journey.

Does Etihad offer Istanbul flight deals?

Yes. We give special offers throughout the year, so check regularly to get the latest Istanbul flight deals.

What is Etihad Guest?

Etihad Guest is our loyalty programme that lets you earn miles on airfare – including flights to Istanbul – hotels, and everyday shopping. You can use your miles to book flights, get cabin upgrades, access lounges, and enjoy a range of other rewards.

I have a stopover in Abu Dhabi before my flight to Istanbul. How can I make the most of it?

Take advantage of our Abu Dhabi stopover programme, which offers up to two free hotel nights so you can explore the UAE capital at no extra accommodation cost.

What is the recommended check-in time for flights to Istanbul?

We recommend arriving at the airport at least three hours before your Istanbul flight. Check-in counters close 60 minutes before the flight for Economy, and 45 minutes for Business.

Can I make changes to my Istanbul flight ticket?

Yes, you can modify your Istanbul flight booking when you manage your booking on etihad.com.