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Istanbul Airport (IST): The main international hub on the European side. Fly here with British Airways flights to Istanbul or Turkish Airlines London to Istanbul services from Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW).
Sabiha Gökçen (SAW): Located on the Asian side. This is the hub for low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines and AJet, often flying from Stansted (STN).
Flight Duration: A direct flight is quick, taking approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.
Daily Connections: There are multiple daily flights, giving you total flexibility for morning or evening departures.
Sthgilf compares flights to both airports side-by-side, helping you decide whether to land in Europe (IST) or Asia (SAW) based on your hotel location.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flight Duration | 3h 50m (Direct) |
| Cheapest Month | January & November |
| Starting Price | £192 (approx) |
| Top Airlines | British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus |
| Distance | 1,550 miles |
Why Sthgilf is the Best Site for London-Istanbul Flights
We are designed to find you the lowest fares without the hassle. Our system constantly monitors global pricing to ensure you never overpay.
Compare All Options: We compare budget-friendly Pegasus deals against full-service British Airways flights to Istanbul in one click.
Real-Time Savings: Our system scans real-time data to find Cheap flights to Istanbul from London for your specific dates.
No Hidden Fees: The price you see is the price you pay.
24/7 UK-Based Support: Our dedicated team is ready to help with any questions.
Choose Sthgilf for a transparent, stress-free booking experience that prioritizes your budget.
Best Time to Book Cheap Flights to Istanbul
Istanbul is a year-round destination, but timing is key for the best weather and prices.
Cheapest Months: January, February, and November are typically the cheapest months to fly.
Best Time to Visit: April to May (Spring) and September to October (Autumn) offer perfect mild weather for walking tours.
Summer Heat: July and August can be very hot and crowded, with higher flight prices.
Booking Tip: To secure the best fares, try to book at least 6 weeks in advance.
For the lowest price, visit in winter. For the best experience, aim for the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn.
Things to Do After Landing in Istanbul from London
Istanbul is a city of layers, offering ancient history, vibrant culture, and incredible food.
Explore Istanbul Top Cities After Your Flight
- Hagia Sophia: A stunning architectural marvel that has been both a church and a mosque.
- Topkapi Palace: Explore the opulent home of the Ottoman Sultans.
- Grand Bazaar: Get lost in one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.
- Bosporus Cruise: Take a ferry ride between Europe and Asia for breathtaking views of the city skyline.
From ancient relics to bustling markets, Istanbul offers an unforgettable sensory experience.
Must-Try Turkish Food
Turkish cuisine is world-famous. You cannot visit Istanbul without indulging in these local staples.
Simit: A circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds, known as the “Turkish bagel.”
Kebabs: Try an authentic Adana kebab or Iskender kebab—far superior to the late-night version in London!
Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup.
Turkish Delight (Lokum): A sweet, chewy confection often flavoured with rosewater or lemon.
Forget the diet; Istanbul’s culinary scene is a rich, flavourful journey worth every calorie.
Where to Shop: From Bazaars to Boutiques
Shopping in Istanbul is an adventure, ranging from historic markets to modern malls.
Grand Bazaar: Perfect for carpets, leather goods, ceramics, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to haggle!
Spice Bazaar: A fragrant market filled with spices, dried fruits, and nuts.
Istiklal Avenue: A famous pedestrian street lined with modern shops, boutiques, and cafes.
Nişantaşı: The place to go for luxury brands and high-end fashion.
Whether you want traditional crafts or modern fashion, Istanbul has a shopping district for you.
Getting Around Istanbul
Istanbul is huge and traffic can be heavy. Using public transport is often the smartest way to move around.
Istanbulkart: Buy this reloadable card at the airport to use on all buses, metros, trams, and ferries.
Trams: The T1 tram line is perfect for tourists, connecting major sights like the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar.
Ferries: The most scenic way to travel between the European and Asian sides.
Taxis: Yellow taxis are available, but always ensure the meter is running or use an app like BiTaksi or Uber.
Get an Istanbul kart immediately—it’s the key to the city and much faster than sitting in taxi traffic.
Final Travel Tips for Your Journey
A few practical tips to ensure your trip goes smoothly from the moment you land.
Visa: UK citizens visiting for tourism (up to 90 days) generally do not need a visa.
Currency: The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
Dress Code: When visiting mosques, dress modestly. Women will need a headscarf (usually available at the entrance).
Tea Culture: Expect to be offered tea (cay) everywhere. It’s a sign of hospitality.
Pack comfortable walking shoes and enjoy the incredible hospitality of Istanbul.
London to Istanbul Flights: Your Questions Answered
Q: Which airport is better, IST or SAW?
It depends on your final destination. Istanbul Airport (IST) is on the European side and closer to the main tourist areas like Sultanahmet (approx. 45-60 mins). Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is on the Asian side and often cheaper, but transfer times to the European city centre can be longer (60-90 mins).
Q: Are there direct flights to Istanbul from London?
A: Yes, there are many direct flights to Istanbul from London. You can fly with British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, and Wizz Air from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton.
Q: Do I need a visa for Turkey from the UK?
A: No. As of recent rule changes, UK citizens travelling for tourism do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, always check the latest entry requirements on Sthgilf before you fly.
Q: How long is the flight from London to Istanbul?
A: A direct flight typically takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes to 4 hours and 10 minutes, depending on the wind and airport.
Q: Does British Airways fly to Istanbul?
A: Yes, British Airways flights to Istanbul operate daily from London Heathrow (LHR) to Istanbul Airport (IST). Sthgilf compares these flights against Turkish Airlines to find you the best value.