$106 Cheap Flights from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP)
Popular airlines from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
LOT-Polish AirlinesLOT-Polish Airlines
Turkish AirlinesTurkish Airlines
LufthansaLufthansa
Air SerbiaAir Serbia
British AirwaysBritish Airways
IberiaIberia
Air FranceAir France
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Cheap Flights from Istanbul to Milan (IST-MXP)
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Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP) at a glance
Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP) on this international short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service or low-cost carriers, you can easily compare options to find the best itinerary that suits your budget, schedule, and travel plans while discovering the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Milan. Check out the essential details for flights from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Malpensa International Airport (MXP).
- Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,000 miles (1,610 km)
- Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $150–$585, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Malpensa International Airport (MXP)
According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Istanbul to Milan, primarily focusing on non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover points include Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) with an approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes layover, Frederic Chopin Airport (WAW) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Eleftherios Venizelos Airport (ATH) with a layover of about 3 hours. These choices allow you to tailor your itinerary based on price, total travel time, and cabin class.
- Turkish Airlines: As a leading full-service airline, Turkish Airlines provides non-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices typically falling between $180 and $1240. This carrier operates around 82% of the departures for this route, offering a total travel time of 3 hours.
- Air Serbia: Offering a full-service experience, Air Serbia features one-stop flights with one-way fares generally ranging from $170 to $515. This airline makes up about 8% of departures along this route, with an in-flight duration of 4 hours and a total trip time of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, including the layover.
- LOT-Polish Airlines: Another full-service option, LOT-Polish Airlines operates one-stop services with typical one-way fares between $150 and $360. This airline represents around 3% of the route's departures, with a flight time of 4 hours and a total journey duration of roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in the layover.
Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Istanbul to Milan, with Turkish Airlines providing business class service on this route.
Alternative routes from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP)
- Istanbul to Milan (IST-LIN): Linate Airport (LIN) is located approximately 30 miles from Malpensa International Airport (MXP).
- Istanbul to Milan (SAW-MXP): Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW) is around 38 miles distant from Istanbul Airport (IST).
- Istanbul to Bergamo (IST-BGY): Orio Al Serio Airport (BGY) is situated about 48 miles from Malpensa International Airport (MXP).
How to find the best prices for flights from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Istanbul to Milan is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are generally available when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Morning departures between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m. usually offer lower prices, while afternoon flights from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday often results in cheaper fares, whereas Friday is the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 Malpensa International Airport from Istanbul Airport
Milan welcomes travelers from Istanbul with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Istanbul Airport is roughly a 20-minute drive (covering about 16 miles) from central Istanbul. Here's how to reach Milan efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Milan, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Malpensa International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Malpensa International 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.
- Public transportation: From Malpensa International Airport, Malpensa Airport Terminal 1 Station, a metro station, is just a short 0.1-mile walk away, providing easy access to the city. For those traveling by car, Milan Malpensa Seaport, a seaport, is located approximately 4.1 miles from the airport, while Ferno-Lonate Pozzolo Station, a train station, is about 4.8 miles away by car.
Istanbul to Milan Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Istanbul to Milan
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 Istanbul to Milan are during the month of June. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Istanbul to Milan with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Istanbul to Milan
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Istanbul to Milan: 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 Istanbul to Milan
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 Istanbul to Milan in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $106 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 Istanbul to Milan 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 Istanbul to Milan 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $106 and cheap return flights $191 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $163 to $1330, and return flights typically cost between $348 and $1838. 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from IST to MXP is June 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
Turkish Airlines offers around 28 weekly direct flights from IST to MXP.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
Fly One S.R.L. is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP), with round-trip tickets starting from around $449. 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.), 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Turkish Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Turkish Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. Lufthansa also offers the most daily flights from IST to MXP, 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
On average, there are around 4 nonstop flights per day from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Malpensa Intl. (MXP). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Malpensa International (MXP) typically departs at around 12:15 AM, operated by Tarom-Romanian Air Transport, Lufthansa, and Air Dolomiti. This seasonal service is available in January, allowing you to arrive in Milan early and enjoy the day ahead. 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Malpensa Intl. (MXP) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and Lufthansa, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows travelers to arrive in Milan with plenty of time to explore the city.
How long does it take to fly from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from IST to MXP typically takes around 3 hours, covering approximately 1,046 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 10 hours 20 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
Business class is available on flights from IST to MXP. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:
- Lufthansa
- LOT Polish Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
- British Airways
- Air Serbia
- Tarom
- Aegean
- Air France
- Air Malta
- SAS
How much is a business class flight from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP) typically costs between $1,805 - $2,162. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $1,820 - $2,202 per adult. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) 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 Milan from Istanbul Airport (IST)?
When traveling from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Milan, you can fly into Linate (LIN) and Malpensa Intl. (MXP). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Frankfurt Intl. (FRA), Nikola Tesla (BEG), Henri Coanda Intl. (OTP) before reaching Milan. 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) Milan 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 Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.)?
If you booked your Istanbul (IST) to Milan (MXP-Malpensa Intl.) 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 | Istanbul Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Milan Malpensa Airport |
Distance | 1,045 miles away |
Airlines serving | LOT-Polish Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Serbia, British Airways, Iberia, Air France, Aegean, Sky Express, Vueling Airlines, Air Baltic, Air Cairo, Air Europa, Air Algerie, Luxair, Egyptair, Royal Jordanian |
Popular airline | LOT-Polish Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $191 |
Average flight time | 2 hours 56 mins |