Flights to Istanbul

Public Transport and How to Get Around

After arriving on cheap flights to Istanbul, you’ll have plenty of options to make your way around the city. Affordable transport options are available between each of Istanbul’s airports and the city centre. Travelling from Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST), you can catch the metro into the city for 2.35 Turkish lira (60 cents AUD) or a taxi for about 55 lira ($14.35 AUD). If your flights to Istanbul arrive to Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), your transport options include a shuttle bus for 2.40 lira (65 cents AUD) or a taxi for about 125 lira ($32.65 AUD).

After arriving into the city centre following your cheap flights to Istanbul, you can catch the metro, trams, buses, and ferries to explore the city. The metro consists of six different lines that will help you reach all of the major attractions after your flights to Istanbul. Ferries serve as the most scenic form of transportation through the city. Spanning the Bosphorus River, many ferries through Istanbul can transport you between Europe and Asia.

Best Things to Do on Weekends After Flights to Istanbul

Visit a Turkish Hammam

A popular activity for both locals and visitors with return flights to Istanbul is to experience a traditional hammam. Turkish hammams are bath houses that date back to the Ottoman Empire. Hammams offer a relaxing spa experience where you can receive a variety of treatments, including aromatherapy massages, reflexology, and facials.

Take a Day Trip to the Ruins of Troy

The site of legendary Troy makes for a great day trip when you have flights to Istanbul. While the exact location of Troy is debated, many archaeologists believe it is located just outside the Turkish town of Tevfikiye. The ancient city was the site of the Trojan War as written by Homer in his epic poem The Iliad. Today, the site has ancient ruins and a rich trading history than spanned all the way from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine Empire.

Visit the Princes’ Islands

These islands can be reached by ferry in just a half hour from the city. They are a local favourite and an under-the-radar spot to experience when you book airfare to Istanbul. There are nine islands to visit, and each one offers a unique experience. Each of the Princes’ Islands has gorgeous views, and the lack of motorised vehicles adds to their allure.

Landmarks and Monuments You Can’t Miss When Travelling on Plane Tickets to Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Return flights to Istanbul are not complete without a visit to the world-famous Hagia Sophia. It is celebrated as one of the most impressive architectural works in the world. The Hagia Sophia was first constructed in 537 AD as a Greek Orthodox Cathedral. It was later transformed into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire, and today, it’s a museum. After your flights to Istanbul, visit the Hagia Sophia to marvel at its architecture and see traditional Byzantine mosaics.

Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul consists of 61 covered streets and about 5,000 vendors. It’s more than 500 years old and is one of the largest covered markets in the world. In the Grand Bazaar, you can shop a range of authentic Turkish goods, such as ceramics, jewellery, leather, and carpets. Market vendors expect shoppers with flights to Istanbul to negotiate prices, so try out your bartering skills while making purchases in the Grand Bazaar.

The Blue Mosque

After arriving on your cheap flights to Istanbul, make your way to the famous Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque. The mosque was constructed in the early 1600s in a classic Ottoman architectural style. The interior of the mosque is made up of blue tiles, and at night, it glows in a cool blue colour. Between your return flights to Istanbul, make sure you take some time to appreciate the beauty of the Blue Mosque.

Basilica Cistern

Istanbul’s cistern is a magnificent work of architecture. Lying underground, it once provided drinking water for the city. Visitors with tickets to Istanbul can walk on paths through the Basilica Cistern among 336 columns and elaborate designs. With low lighting and classical music playing in the background, the cistern offers an eerie but fascinating experience.