Traveling to Istanbul can be a dream come true, but finding an affordable flight is crucial to making that dream a reality. Understanding the dynamics of flight prices can help you save significantly.
This guide delves into the key factors influencing airfare to Istanbul, including seasonal trends, booking strategies, and insider tips. Read on to discover how to make your journey to this enchanting city both unforgettable and budget-friendly.
Cheapest Time to Book Flights to Istanbul in 2024
There are two main factors to consider when finding the cheapest flights to Istanbul:
- Time of year to fly
- Time of day and week to book
Time of Year to Fly to Istanbul
The cheapest months to fly to Istanbul are generally considered to be January and February. This is because these are the off-season months for tourism in Istanbul, so there is less flight demand, and prices drop. You can also find good deals on flights in March and November
Time of Day and Week to Book a Flight to Istanbul
According to several flight search engines, the best time to book a flight to Istanbul is typically 40-60 days in advance. This includes weekends and holidays, which are peak travel times. Avoid booking at the last minute or during peak travel times, such as Skyscanner and Kayak, as prices will be higher.
Cheapest Airlines that Fly to Istanbul with Average Prices
Here are 8 of the cheapest airlines that fly to Istanbul, with an estimate of average prices to consider when searching for your next trip:
- Pegasus Airlines (PC): Known for its budget-friendly fares, Pegasus Airlines is a Turkish low-cost carrier that operates flights to various European and Asian destinations. Average ticket price:
- Turkish Airlines (TK): Turkish Airlines is Turkey’s national flag carrier, offering a mix of budget-friendly and premium cabin options. They fly to over 300 destinations worldwide, including Istanbul. Average ticket price: $200-$400
- Победа (Pobeda) (Pобеда): This Russian low-cost carrier offers no-frills service, which means you may have to pay extra for checked bags and meals onboard. However, their upfront ticket prices tend to be very affordable, especially if you’re a light-packer. Average ticket price: $100-$250
- SunExpress (XQ): A joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, SunExpress is another budget-conscious option for travelers looking for cheap flights to Istanbul. Average ticket price: $120-$300
- AnadoluJet (HY): AnadoluJet, the low-cost subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, offers domestic flights within Turkey, including to Istanbul. Average ticket price: $80-$200
- Atlasjet (KK): Although AtlasGlobal (Atlasjet) ceased its international operations in 2020, it continues to offer domestic flights in Turkey. Average ticket price: $100-$220
- Corendon Airlines (CD): A low-cost Turkish airline mainly focuses on charter flights to holiday destinations around the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East. Corendon Airlines also offers some scheduled flights to Istanbul. Average ticket price: $130-$280
- Onur Air (ONR): A Turkish charter airline that also operates some scheduled flights, including some to Istanbul. Average ticket price: $150-$350
Pros & Cons of Flying to Istanbul During the Cheapest Time
Pros
- Save Money: This is the biggest advantage. Flights and accommodation will be significantly cheaper compared to peak tourist seasons.
- Fewer Crowds: Popular tourist attractions won’t be as packed, allowing for a more relaxed sightseeing experience.
- Unique Events: You might experience winter festivals or cultural events specific to the off-season.
- Lower Hotel Rates: Hotels often offer lower rates during the off-season, stretching your travel budget further.
Cons
- Weather: Winter in Istanbul can be cold, wet, and snowy. Some outdoor activities or tours might be unavailable.
- Shorter Days: Daylight hours are shorter, limiting the amount of sightseeing you can do each day.
- Limited Hours/Closures: Some shops, restaurants, or tourist attractions may have shorter operating hours or be closed altogether during the off-season.
- Less Lively Atmosphere: The city might have a quieter vibe compared to the bustling summer months.
Additional Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Istanbul
- Fly ANY Airport/Layover: Explore cheaper options, such as SAW airport or flights with layovers that might work for another trip.
- Weekdays & Off-Hours: Fly weekdays or red-eye flights to avoid peak travel times and save.
- Clear Browsing Data: Clear cookies to stop price hikes after showing interest in a route.
- Flight Deal Alerts: Set alerts for price drops on your desired route or travel dates.
- Check Airline Websites & Discount Agencies: Look beyond popular sites for potential exclusive deals.
- Error Fares (Use Caution): Super cheap fares due to airline mistakes might get canceled. Book at your own risk!
Frequently Asked Questions
Booking your flight at least 2-3 months in advance usually results in better deals and lower prices.
Yes, flights departing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper compared to those on weekends due to lower demand.
Flight prices can drop during less popular travel periods, such as after major holidays like New Year’s and Christmas.
Yes, larger international airports often offer cheaper flights due to higher competition and more frequent flights compared to smaller regional airports.
