Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world — and one of the best-value long-haul destinations from the UK. With Turkish Airlines, easyJet, Pegasus, and British Airways all competing on the route, there are plenty of options for finding cheap flights. Here is everything you need to know for 2026.
Which Airlines Fly from the UK to Istanbul?
Turkish Airlines — Turkey\'s national carrier, operating from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh to Istanbul Airport (IST). Excellent service, competitive fares, and good connections to destinations across Turkey and beyond. Fares include a generous baggage allowance.\n\neasyJet — Operates from London Gatwick, London Luton, Manchester, and Edinburgh to Istanbul Airport (IST). Competitive fares with a budget model — charges for hold luggage and seat selection.\n\nPegasus Airlines — Turkey\'s low-cost carrier, operating from London Stansted to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side of the city. Very low base fares but strict baggage policies and a more remote airport location.\n\nBritish Airways — Operates from London Heathrow to Istanbul Airport. Higher fares but includes luggage and earns Avios points.\n\nWizz Air — Operates from London Luton and several regional UK airports to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen. Very low base fares.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Istanbul
January and February are the cheapest months — Istanbul is cold and rainy but the city is at its most authentic. Fares from £60–£120 return from London.\n\nMarch and November offer good value — shoulder season with reasonable weather and fares from £70–£140 return.\n\nApril and May are excellent — warm weather, manageable crowds, and fares from £80–£160 return. The tulip festival in April is a highlight.\n\nJune is good value before the peak summer rush — fares from £90–£180 return.\n\nJuly and August are peak season — Istanbul is hot and busy, and fares rise to £120–£250 return. Book 3–4 months in advance.\n\nSeptember and October are arguably the best months — excellent weather, fewer crowds, and fares from £80–£170 return.
Istanbul Airport (IST) vs Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)
Istanbul Airport (IST) — The new main international airport, one of the largest in the world, located on the European side of Istanbul. Connected to the city centre by the Havaist bus (45–75 minutes, £5) and Metro (under construction, expected 2026). Taxis cost £20–£35 to the centre.\n\nSabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) — Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, about 50km from the European city centre. Used mainly by Pegasus and Wizz Air. Getting to the European side requires a bus to Kadikoy (30 minutes) then a ferry across the Bosphorus (25 minutes) — total journey time 1.5–2 hours. Taxis to the European centre cost £35–£50.\n\nVerdict: Istanbul Airport is significantly more convenient for most visitors. Sabiha Gokcen fares are often £30–£60 cheaper — factor in the extra transport time and cost when comparing.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Fares to Istanbul
Book early for peak dates — summer and the Christmas/New Year period sell out fast. Book 3–4 months in advance for July and August.\n\nBe flexible on days — Tuesday and Wednesday flights are typically cheaper than Friday and Sunday.\n\nUse fare comparison tools — Google Flights\' calendar view is excellent for spotting the cheapest days. Set up price alerts on Skyscanner for your preferred dates.\n\nConsider Turkish Airlines for value — Turkish Airlines often offers competitive all-in fares (including luggage) that undercut budget airlines once baggage fees are added. Always compare total costs.\n\nCheck for Istanbul stopovers — Turkish Airlines offers free stopovers in Istanbul for passengers connecting to other destinations. If you are planning a longer trip, this can be an excellent way to add Istanbul at no extra cost.
