Cheap flights to Istanbul

Historically known by several other names, Istanbul today is the largest city in Turkey and the 7th largest city in the world. Considered a capital of culture in Europe, this city of wonders offers visitors a vast array of historical, cultural and architectural sights sure to please any traveller. Istanbul - previously known as Byzantium and Constantinople and with origins in the ancient Greek empire, this city has had a long and bloody history. Thanks to its strategic location it was constantly fought over, falling to the Roman republic in 196 AD before finding itself under continuous attack for centuries. A major tourist hub in Europe, visitors spend their days marvelling at the incredible Ottoman Empire architecture, traditional art, busy bazaars and relaxing at Turkish baths.

City break to Istanbul

Find cheap tickets with BudgetAir.co.uk and experience Istanbul like a local. Whether you want to fly and eat, fly and shop or fly and discover the city. It's time to indulge! Discover new destinations through their cuisine, shop 'till you drop or explore their outdoor activities.

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From the United Kingdom you have multiple options to fly from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh to Istanbul.

What to do in Istanbul?

In Istanbul there are plenty of things and activities to cover. It's filled with architecture and historic buildings, the sheer number of possibilities can be overwhelming for visitors.

• Topkapi Palace is a great place to start. This Ottoman Empire Era palace complex offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the Ottoman Sultans. Over the years the palace housed up to 4,000 people and was constantly being changed to suit the tastes of the city's rulers. This token of the Imperial era is widely regarded as one of the best and most complete collections of Ottoman Era swords, armour, porcelain, weapons and manuscripts.

• The Bosphorus is known as one of the world's most beautiful stretches of water and is top of many visitors' lists.

• The Grand Bazaar and Galata Tower draw in crowds of amazed visitors, history buffs and classical scholars alike. It is a great solo travel or family destination, offering things to do and see for everyone who finds themselves in this Metropolitan capital.

• Modern Mosques: Hagia Sophia, Şakirin Mosque, Sancaklar Mosque and beautiful waterways add to the overall allure of Istanbul.

• In April, the city hosts the International Istanbul Film Festival, featuring some of the best Turkish and international films.

• While you're there, the Tulip Festival held in spring sees the entire city covered in beautiful tulips.

• There are many more things you can find in Istanbul, we recommend you to check out our page to find out more.

Events in Istanbul

This city has a little bit of everything and is sure to please any visitor with its incredible architecture, history, music and culture. A wide range of events and sights to see will keep a traveller busy for years.

• But if you are curious to learn more about the events in Istanbul, you can check our other pages.

Practical Information about Istanbul

• Temperature: The temperature 19˚C (66°F) during the summer months and 5˚C (41°F) during the winter months.
• Time difference: Istanbul is 2 hours ahead of London.
• Currency: Turkish Lira ₺ (TRY).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Istanbul

✔️ When to book flights to Istanbul?

• Flights can be cheaper to Istanbul last minute, but this isn’t always the case. We recommend that you try to book to Istanbul 4-5 months in advance for great deals. The price of flights to Istanbul can vary due to the season and availability. We also have deals and discounts from time to time, so it’s worth checking our exclusive BudgetAir.co.uk discount page for special offers.

✔️ When is the best time to fly to Istanbul?

• The best time to visit Istanbul is spring or fall. It can be very hot in the summer months in Istanbul, and fairly cold in winter.

✔️ How can you get the cheap flights to Istanbul?

• A good tip is to search for flights to Istanbul on Tuesday, and to book flights that fly on Wednesday, as these are usually the cheapest deals. Perhaps a different airport is a lot cheaper and will save you money! It’s also worth subscribing to our newsletter to get great deals and offers for the cheap flights.

✔️ Is Istanbul a good destination for female solo travellers?

• Istanbul is generally safe for the solo female traveller. Travelling alone in Istanbul is no more dangerous than visiting any other city by yourself. Keep your guards up, and don't hesitate to discover the unique art, architecture, monuments and excellent food in Istanbul! We also have some helpful tips for females who are planning to travel on their own.

✔️ What is the best way to travel around Istanbul?

• The best ways to get around Istanbul are the buses and trams. Istanbul is a large city if you combine all the areas, but if you only want to focus on a specific area, it's absolutely walkable.

Curious to learn more about Turkey?

Find out more information by reading our blogs below.

Before you head to the airport

Complete your trip with BudgetAir.co.uk:

• 🏨 Book a hotel

• 🚗 Secure your car hire

• ✅ Buy travel insurance: In some cases, it could help you save a lot of money.

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