Cheap flights from Bilbao to Istanbul

May brings milder weather and longer daylight hours in Istanbul compared to the colder winter months. The shoulder seasons typically see lower prices than peak summer when demand is highest. Weekday departures often cost less than flights on weekends, and booking several weeks ahead gives you more choice among airlines.

Wizz Air, Pegasus, Easyjet, Volotea and Wizz Air Malta operate as low-cost carriers on this route with basic fares that may require extra payment for checked luggage. Vueling Airlines, Norwegian, Lufthansa, Air France and Air Europa offer full-service flights where meals and baggage are usually included in the ticket price. Some operators connect through their own hubs while others fly direct to Istanbul's airports.

Istanbul has two airports serving different parts of the city: Istanbul Airport on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen further east near the Asian shore. Arrange your ground transport before landing since taxi services and public transit options vary by location. Each airport connects to central areas via metro lines, buses or rideshare vehicles depending on which terminal you reach.

Currency

TRY (₺)

Power sockets

Type C, F · 230 V

Language

Turkish

Emergency number

112, 177

Driving side

right

Calling code

+36

Internet domain

.tr

Population of Istanbul

15.7 M (2023)

Time zone

UTC+03 (Europe/Istanbul)

Country facts: Wikidata

• Check visa requirements and passport validity for entry into Turkey before you book.
• Compare what baggage allowance each airline includes in their fare structure.
• Verify whether your flight is direct or requires a connection when tickets are booked separately.
• Confirm which Istanbul airport serves your chosen airline to plan ground transport accordingly.