Cheap Flights to Istanbul

Best Fares to Istanbul

Hagia Sophia & The Blue Mosque, Icons of Empires

Standing face to face across Sultanahmet Square, these architectural icons define Istanbul’s skyline. Hagia Sophia has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, a monument to centuries of change. The Blue Mosque, with its striking blue tiles and elegant domes, continues to welcome worshippers and travellers alike.

Topkapı Palace & The Harem, Ottoman Majesty

Once home to generations of Ottoman rulers, Topkapı Palace dazzles with opulent courtyards, royal chambers, and priceless relics. The Harem, a secluded inner complex, offers an intimate look at the private lives of the sultans’ families. Take in sweeping views of the Bosphorus while walking through this living museum of empire.

Grand Bazaar & Spice Market, A Sensory Maze

Lose track of time in the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. With thousands of stalls selling jewellery, textiles, and crafts, it’s a paradise for shoppers and photographers. The nearby Spice Market explodes with colours and aromas, saffron, dried fruits, and Turkish delight at every turn.

Bosphorus Cruise & Ferry Rides, Between Two Continents

A cruise along the Bosphorus Strait is an essential Istanbul experience. Glide past palaces, mansions, and mosques as Europe and Asia unfold on either side. Ferry rides offer a local’s perspective, scenic, affordable, and a perfect way to capture the city’s rhythm.

Galata Tower & Istiklal Street, Modern Vibes

Climb the medieval Galata Tower for panoramic views of minarets, bridges, and rooftops, then wander down Istiklal Street, alive with shops, galleries, and street musicians. Don’t miss Karaköy and Beyoğlu, districts brimming with art spaces, rooftop bars, and fusion restaurants that show off Istanbul’s cosmopolitan flair.

Gülhane Park, Basilica Cistern & Hidden Gems

Escape the crowds in Gülhane Park, once part of the royal gardens. Nearby, the Basilica Cistern invites you underground to discover marble columns and a mysterious Medusa head. For something different, explore Balat’s colourful streets or the laid-back markets of Kadıköy for a glimpse of local life beyond the tourist trail.

Flying to Istanbul

Istanbul is home to two major airports, Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Travellers booking flights to Istanbul can choose from a range of major airlines offering convenient one-stop connections through international hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Singapore.

If you’re comparing Sydney to Istanbul flights or departing from Melbourne, Brisbane, or Perth, Mix & Match AU makes it easy to find the right fare, travel time, and stopover to suit your plans. With simple search tools and transparent pricing, planning your journey to Turkey’s vibrant cultural capital has never been easier.

Getting Around

• Public Transport: The Istanbulkart gives you easy access to buses, trams, ferries, and metros, a single tap takes you almost anywhere.

• Ferries & Boats: Cross between continents or take a scenic Bosphorus ride, both practical and picturesque.

• Taxis & Rideshares: Reliable, but traffic can be unpredictable. Opt for licensed taxis or popular apps.

• Walking & Cycling: Historic neighbourhoods are best explored on foot; newer districts have emerging cycle paths.

Must-Dos in Istanbul

• Explore Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque

• Wander through Topkapı Palace and its Harem

• Bargain at the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market

• Watch the sunset on a Bosphorus cruise

• Climb Galata Tower for sweeping city views

• Stroll Gülhane Park’s peaceful paths

• Discover art, coffee, and nightlife in Kadıköy and Beyoğlu

• Savour local street food: simit, gözleme, and kebabs

• Relax in a traditional Turkish bath (hamam)

General Weather Information for Istanbul

Istanbul enjoys four distinct seasons with moderate weather:

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool and damp (5 °C–12 °C); atmospheric for cosy cafés and museums.

• Spring (Mar–May): Mild (10 °C–20 °C) and vibrant with tulip blooms across the city.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm (20 °C–30 °C) and lively, perfect for outdoor dining and ferries.

• Autumn (Sep–Nov): Pleasant (15 °C–25 °C) with golden light and smaller crowds.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to October for comfortable weather and the best sightseeing conditions.

Traveller Tips for Istanbul

• Dress modestly for mosque visits, shoulders and knees covered.

• Use contactless or Istanbulkart for quick, cheap transport.

• Keep small cash for markets and taxis.

• Learning a few local phrases such as “Teşekkürler” (thank you) goes a long way.

• Stay alert in crowded areas like bazaars or trams.

• Check prayer times before visiting mosques.