AnkaraIstanbul, Turkey

Flights from Ankara to Istanbul

Flying time from Ankara (ESB) to Istanbul (IST) is about 59m (381 km).

All flights to Istanbul →

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Photo of Istanbul: Julien Goettelmann on Pexels.

When you land in Istanbul

The airport transfer and the few things worth sorting before you fly.

A Turkish Airlines aircraft flying amidst clouds over Istanbul, capturing travel's essence. — arriving in Istanbul

Airport transfer

IST → Istanbul, booked before you fly

A private driver meets you in arrivals at a price agreed when you book. Book with Welcome Pickups.

See transfer prices

A stunning panoramic view of Ankara skyline with Kocatepe Mosque and Atakule Tower. — lounges at Ankara Airport

Ankara Airport · 2 lounges

Before you flyAirport lounges at Ankara →

Trains, buses and taxi faresIST to Istanbul: getting into town →Early arrival or late flightLuggage storage in Istanbul →34 drop-off points, from €3.90

Things to book in Istanbul

All 59 things to do in Istanbul →

from €60

Topkapı Palace Museum 3.6 · 445 Tiqets reviews

from €9

Istanbul Sightseeing Cruises 3.8 · 250 Tiqets reviews

from €15

The Blue Mosque 4.0 · 138 Tiqets reviews

from €15

Istanbul Whirling Dervishes Ceremonies 4.4 · 126 Tiqets reviews

Find hotels in Istanbul

Hotels, hostels & more · Trip.com

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Airlines flying Ankara to Istanbul

We have not confirmed which airlines fly ESB–IST nonstop. Search the route to see every carrier selling it today, including connections.

Best time to fly to Istanbul

Based on weather and travel conditions in Turkey

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Best monthsGoodAvoid if possible

Turkey is a great destination year-round. Check local weather patterns before booking and consider shoulder seasons for lower prices and fewer crowds.

More for this trip

Frequently asked questions — Ankara to Istanbul flights

How long is the flight from Ankara to Istanbul?

Ankara (ESB) and Istanbul (IST) are 381 km apart, about 59m of flying time. We have not seen a nonstop fare on this pair, so expect to connect, which adds to the total journey time.

How far is Ankara from Istanbul by air?

The great-circle distance between Esenboğa International Airport and İstanbul Airport is 381 km (237 miles), a short-haul route.

Do I need a visa to travel from Ankara to Turkey?

It depends on your passport. Some nationalities can enter Turkey visa-free or get a visa on arrival; others must apply in advance. Use AirConnect's Visa Checker to see the rules for your passport.

What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Turkey is a great destination year-round. Check local weather patterns before booking and consider shoulder seasons for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Sources: fares from Travelpayouts flight-search data, seen 12 Oct 2026; airlines from each carrier's published network and nonstop fares on sale; distance from OurAirports coordinates; flight time estimated from distance. Fares change daily.

Ready to book ESB–IST?

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