$30 Cheap Flights from Ankara (ESB) to Istanbul (IST)

Popular airlines from Ankara (ESB-Esenboga) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

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Cheap Flights from Ankara to Istanbul (ESB-IST)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $30 for one-way flights and $60 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
Turkish Airlines

Find the cheapest month to fly from Ankara (ESB) to Istanbul (IST)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $47 - $534 per traveler.

Graph displaying average flight prices per month

Flights from Ankara (ESB) to Istanbul (SAW)
Origin airport
Esenboga
Destination airport
Sabiha Gokcen Intl.
Airlines serving
Turkish Airlines
Roundtrip price
$60
Distance
200 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 17 mins

Ankara to Istanbul Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Ankara to Istanbul

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Ankara to Istanbul are during the month of July. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Ankara to Istanbul with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Ankara to Istanbul

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Ankara to Istanbul: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Ankara to Istanbul

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Ankara to Istanbul in 2025. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $30 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Ankara to Istanbul flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Ankara to Istanbul airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST) cost?
Find cheap return flights from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST) starting at $314. Grab your seat and set off on your next adventure. This information is based on the cheapest price found on Expedia for this return journey departing within the next three months. This airfare is for a Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines flight leaving ESB on July 3 2025 and touching down at IST. The price was last updated on July 1 2025 and has not changed since.
What is the cheapest month to fly from ESB to IST?
Secure a cheap fare by booking your direct flight from ESB to IST in May. You can find a one-way Turkish Airlines flight for $282 leaving on May 19 2026. This price is based on the cheapest direct flight found on Expedia for this route in the next 330 days. The price was last updated on July 1 2025 and remains unchanged.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from ESB to IST?
With prices starting from $282 for a one-way flight from ESB to IST, Turkish Airlines is currently the cheapest airline flying this route. This fare is based on the lowest price found on Expedia departing within the next three months. The flight takes off from ESB on August 11 2025. Prices were last updated on July 1 2025 and have not changed since.
How many flights per day from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST)?
You'll have to hop on a flight with a layover if you're traveling from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST). There are no daily direct flights on this route. However, simply filter your search to include one or more stops to discover an option that works for you.
What day of the week has the most flights from ESB to IST?
Friday is usually the busiest day for flights, while Tuesday is often the quietest.* Keep in mind that flight schedules can change based on various factors, including the season and airline.*Busiest/quietest day to travel is based on Expedia flight demand through January to December 2024.
What is the best time to fly from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST)?
To avoid possible delays on the Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST) route, fly before 3 PM. Later flights are 22% more likely to be canceled.**Most reliable time of the day and month to travel recommendation is based on January through August 2024 flight status data sourced from OAG's global flight data platform.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST) last-minute?
Waiting until just before your departure to book your flight from ESB to IST often results in higher prices. While you might find some last-minute deals, they're not always guaranteed. Keep your travel plans flexible to maximize your chances of getting a bargain.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Esenboga Airport (ESB) to Istanbul (IST)?
If you reserved your ESB to IST flight in the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it at no cost. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you purchased, additional charges may apply for changes after that time. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, visit our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

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