Cheap flights from Heraklion to Istanbul

Travelers often get better value during the weeks just before or after April, when demand softens and prices tend to dip below peak summer levels. Spring remains comfortable for exploring Istanbul without the crowds of July or August, and booking midweek flights can sometimes yield savings regardless of season. Many passengers also find that avoiding holiday periods like Christmas offers steadier pricing across all carriers.

Full-service carriers such as Aegean Airlines, ITA Airways and Lufthansa typically include checked baggage and meals in their fares while routing connections through Athens, Rome or Frankfurt depending on availability. Sky Express and Hahn Air Systems focus more on direct Heraklion to Istanbul services with simpler pricing structures that add costs for bags or seat selection separately. LOT Polish Airlines and Scandinavian Airlines may connect through Warsaw or Copenhagen if non-stop seats sell out, though these longer itineraries occasionally produce lower total fares.

Arriving late at Istanbul Airport means ground transport options become limited while Sabiha Gokcen offers shorter transfer times to eastern districts of the city. Both airports provide metro access but taxi services operate around the clock with fixed rates available from designated stands outside arrivals halls. Travelers should allow extra time for passport control during evening hours when multiple international flights land simultaneously.

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

• Confirm whether your ticket includes checked baggage since low-cost carriers charge separately for every additional item beyond hand luggage.
• Verify which destination airport your airline uses as Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen serve different districts of the city.
• Check connection times if booking separate tickets on different airlines since missed connections require full rebooking costs.
• Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Greece.
• Consider travelling outside peak summer weeks to avoid higher prices during school holidays and local festivals.