Cheap Flights from London (LON) to Istanbul (IST)

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from London to Istanbul

Finding cheap tickets from London to Istanbul is easy with a little flexibility. Use our Whole Month search feature to scan through the calendar for the cheapest dates. You can also set up a Price Alert for your route and let us monitor the fares for you, sending notifications when prices change. If you’d rather skip layovers, select the Direct Flights search to view non-stop options that’ll save you time.

Booking your tickets early often leads to savings, but we can also find you some last-minute deals. In general, January is the best time to schedule your trip from London to Istanbul, with the lowest average fares across the board. Keep these strategies in mind to find the best itinerary.

Handy information about London airport

London serves as a true global gateway with six airports managing a spectrum of international and domestic flights. The centrally located London City Airport, notable for its single terminal, primarily focuses on domestic and European flights tailored for business travelers, while also offering a few transatlantic routes. It presents various transport options including the Docklands Light Railway, enhancing its accessibility.

Heathrow, the UK's largest airport, operates from four terminals offering comprehensive international connections. You'll find a multitude of transportation channels like the Heathrow Express and the Piccadilly Underground line that provide direct access to and from the heart of the city. Similarly, Gatwick, with two terminals, and Stansted, with one, both offer a range of flights, including low-cost options, and direct train routes into London. Luton, also facilitating primarily budget carriers from its single terminal, connects travelers to London via its nearby train station. Lastly, Southend Airport completes the set with links into the city, chiefly serving domestic and European airlines.

Istanbul airport: good to know

Istanbul has two main airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport hosts three terminals. Terminal 1 accommodates both domestic and international flights, being the go-to for full-service and legacy carriers. For those arriving or departing, taxis, buses, and car rentals offer convenient transportation to and from this terminal. Meanwhile, Terminal 2 is undergoing renovation and is not currently functional. Terminal 3 hosts domestic and international flights as well, with a focus on low-cost carriers.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport offers a single terminal that also serves both domestic and international flights. It welcomes a variety of airlines, from full-service to low-cost, ensuring options for different travel preferences. Similar to Istanbul Airport, passengers have access to taxis, shuttles, and public buses for their transportation needs. Whether traveling for business or a weekend getaway, make your flight from London to Istanbul stress-free by planning your airport transfer ahead of time.

Best time to fly from London to Istanbul

The best time to fly from London to Istanbul is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, specifically from March to May and from September to November. During these months, you'll enjoy mild temperatures averaging between 50°F and 68°F, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. Although the city is known for its moderate climate year-round, these seasons offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather without the peak summer heat or the chill of winter. It's always wise to check the forecast ahead of your trip to pack appropriately for Istanbul's occasionally unpredictable weather.

Reasons to visit Istanbul

When planning your trip to Istanbul, check out these activities and attractions the city has to offer. Observe the religious and cultural splendor during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, where festivities reflect the rich traditions of the city. Marvel at the Hagia Sophia, a landmark that stands as a testament to Istanbul's historical significance, previously serving as both a church and mosque. Explore Topkapi Palace, once the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, now a museum displaying imperial collections. Lastly, visit the Blue Mosque, known for its striking architecture and the serene ambiance within its walls. Each of these attractions captures the essence of Istanbul's storied past and present.

Add hotel bookings and car hire to your London to Istanbul flight

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Planning your trip to Istanbul is easy and convenient with Skyscanner. Choose from reliable car rental options like Auto-Union, Central, and Garenta to explore the city at your own pace. For stays ranging from luxury to comfort, book with hotels such as Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus, Hilton Istanbul Bomonti, or Swissotel The Bosphorus. With Skyscanner, arranging your travel essentials is efficient and straightforward, letting you focus on your itinerary.