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$47 Cheap Flights from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

View $47 flight on Tue, Nov 3, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Ferenc Liszt Intl. Airport (BUD) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

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Cheap Flights from Budapest to Istanbul (BUD-IST)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $47 for one-way flights and $90 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Wizz Air
Tue, Dec 1 - Tue, Dec 8
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$90 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$90
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Wizz Air flight, departing Tue, Dec 1 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Tue, Dec 8, priced at $90 found 2 days ago
Wizz Air
Wed, Dec 2 - Tue, Dec 29
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$94 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$94
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Wizz Air flight, departing Wed, Dec 2 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Tue, Dec 29, priced at $94 found 1 day ago
Wizz Air
Tue, Sep 22 - Tue, Sep 29
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$97 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$97
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Wizz Air flight, departing Tue, Sep 22 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $97 found 1 day ago
Wizz Air
Sat, Oct 3 - Tue, Oct 6
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$100 Roundtrip, found 20 hours ago
$100
Roundtrip
found 20 hours ago
Select Wizz Air flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Tue, Oct 6, priced at $100 found 20 hours ago
Wizz Air
Fri, Feb 12 - Sat, Feb 20
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$100 Roundtrip, found 20 hours ago
$100
Roundtrip
found 20 hours ago
Select Wizz Air flight, departing Fri, Feb 12 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Sat, Feb 20, priced at $100 found 20 hours ago
Wizz Air
Tue, Sep 22 - Sat, Sep 26
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$101 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$101
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Wizz Air flight, departing Tue, Sep 22 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Sat, Sep 26, priced at $101 found 1 day ago
Tarom-Romanian Air Transport
Fri, Feb 19 - Wed, Feb 24
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$200 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$200
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Tarom-Romanian Air Transport flight, departing Fri, Feb 19 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Wed, Feb 24, priced at $200 found 2 hours ago
KLM
Wed, Feb 17 - Wed, Feb 24
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$216 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$216
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select KLM flight, departing Wed, Feb 17 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Wed, Feb 24, priced at $216 found 2 hours ago
Lufthansa
Wed, Sep 23 - Wed, Sep 30
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$217 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$217
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Lufthansa flight, departing Wed, Sep 23 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Wed, Sep 30, priced at $217 found 2 hours ago
LOT-Polish Airlines
Wed, Feb 17 - Wed, Feb 24
BUD
Budapest
IST
Istanbul
$229 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$229
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select LOT-Polish Airlines flight, departing Wed, Feb 17 from Budapest to Istanbul, returning Wed, Feb 24, priced at $229 found 2 hours ago

Alternative airports near Istanbul

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Istanbul Airport IST. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 41 minutes. Flights from $150
IST
Istanbul Airport
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center41 min
Flights from $150

Find the cheapest month to fly from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

November is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $90 - $229 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Ferenc Liszt Intl. to Istanbul

Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST) at a glance

Travelers can choose from a range of airlines providing routes from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST) on this international short-haul journey. Whether you prefer full-service or budget carriers, you can easily compare options to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel plans as you set out to discover Istanbul's iconic sights and neighborhoods. Check out the essential details for flights departing from Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) to Istanbul Airport (IST).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 600 miles (970 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $50–$335, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) to Istanbul Airport (IST)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Budapest to Istanbul, including both non-stop and one-stop options. A popular choice for layovers is Frederic Chopin Airport (WAW), with an average connection time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This allows travelers to compare prices, total travel duration, and cabin classes to secure the best itinerary.

  • Turkish Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides non-stop flights, holding about 48% of departures on this route. One-way ticket prices generally range from $115 to $410, with a total travel time of 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Wizz Air: As a budget airline, Wizz Air offers non-stop services, capturing approximately 45% of the departures. One-way fares typically fall between $50 and $155, and the entire journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • LOT-Polish Airlines: Providing one-stop flights, this full-service airline represents around 5% of departures. One-way fares usually range from $195 to $350, with an in-flight duration of 4 hours and a total journey time of approximately 6 hours, including the layover.

Best time to fly from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Budapest to Istanbul are May, August, and October, when peak temperatures in Istanbul reach up to 77.9°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 45.9°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $100). Flight availability peaks in November, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $100, roughly 40% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Most flight options: November has the highest number of flights from Budapest to Istanbul, with approximately 10 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January45.0°F (7.2°C)Average7$189
February45.9°F (7.7°C)Low7$100
March48.4°F (9.1°C)Average7$161
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Average8$176
May63.7°F (17.6°C)High9$128
June72.5°F (22.5°C)Low7$138
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Average8$199
August77.9°F (25.5°C)High9$148
September72.3°F (22.4°C)Average7$160
October63.9°F (17.7°C)High9$187
November57.2°F (14.0°C)Average10$196
December49.6°F (9.8°C)Low7$248

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative route from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

  • Budapest to Istanbul (BUD-SAW): Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) lies approximately 38 miles from Istanbul Airport (IST). On this route, one-way economy prices usually fall between $90 and $255, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Passengers can generally choose from non-stop flights. Prominent airlines operating this route include budget-friendly Pegasus Airlines and Hahn Air.

How to find the best prices for flights from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Budapest to Istanbul is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book at least 2 months ahead. Evening departures (6 PM-12 AM) often offer lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Sunday generally provides cheaper options, although Friday remains the most favored travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Istanbul Airport from Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Istanbul welcomes travelers from Budapest with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Ferenc Liszt International Airport is roughly a 25-minute drive (covering about 14 miles) from central Budapest. Istanbul city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 16 miles) from Istanbul Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Istanbul efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Istanbul, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Istanbul Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Istanbul Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $47 and cheap return flights from $90 Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $162 and $1502, and return flights often range between $307 and $2466. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The cheapest month to fly from BUD to IST is December when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
2 airlines operate nonstop service from BUD to IST:

  • Turkish Airlines operates around 21 direct flights from BUD to IST every week
  • Wizz Air operates around 7 direct flights from BUD to IST every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
Pegasus Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Ferenc Liszt Intl. (BUD) to Istanbul Airport (IST), with round-trip tickets starting from around $134. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
To find a cheap flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The best airline to fly with from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Wizz Air offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Wizz Air typically offers the lowest fares. Lufthansa offers the most daily flights from BUD to IST, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
On average, there are around 3 nonstop flights per day from Ferenc Liszt Intl. (BUD) to Istanbul Airport (IST). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The earliest flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by Wizz Air. This is a seasonal service active in March, and an early departure allows you to start your day in Istanbul right away. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Ferenc Liszt Intl. (BUD) to Istanbul Airport (IST) are in the early afternoon, from 12pm to 3pm. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa and Lufthansa, operate during this time. This timing works well because it allows you to enjoy a leisurely morning before your flight.
How long does it take to fly from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
A nonstop flight from BUD to IST typically takes around 2 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 633 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 10 hours 40 minutes to your travel time. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
Business class is available on flights from BUD to IST. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Lufthansa
  • LOT Polish Airlines
  • Austrian Airlines
  • Turkish Airlines
  • British Airways
  • Aegean
  • Swiss International Air Lines
  • Air Baltic
  • Air France
  • KLM

How much is a business class flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Budapest (BUD) to Istanbul (IST) typically costs between $939 - $1,107. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Istanbul from Ferenc Liszt Intl. (BUD)?
From Ferenc Liszt Intl. (BUD), you can fly into Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen Intl. (SAW) in Istanbul. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Franz Josef Strauss Intl. (MUC), Frankfurt Intl. (FRA), Vienna Intl. (VIE) before reaching Istanbul. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) Istanbul Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST)?
If you booked your Budapest (BUD-Ferenc Liszt Intl.) to Istanbul (IST) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Ferenc Liszt Intl.
Destination airport
Istanbul
Airlines serving
Aegean, Air Baltic, Air France, Air Serbia, British Airways, KLM, LOT-Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Tarom-Romanian Air Transport, Turkish Airlines, Wizz Air
Roundtrip price
$90
Distance
632 mi
Average flight time
3 hours 14 mins

Book with confidence

Budapest to Istanbul Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Budapest 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 Budapest to Istanbul are during the month of December. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Budapest to Istanbul with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Budapest to Istanbul

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest to Istanbul in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $47 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 Budapest 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 Budapest 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.

 

Budapest to Istanbul Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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