Cheap flights from Shanghai to Istanbul

February tends to offer lower fares as the destination sits outside peak holiday periods. Demand rises during school breaks in Europe and around Christmas, though specific months vary year to year. Booking well ahead of travel dates helps secure better options regardless of season. Weekday departures often provide more availability than weekends on this route.

The carriers serving this route span different service models that affect your journey. Full-service airlines like China Southern and Qatar Airways typically include checked baggage in their fares, while budget operators may charge separately for extra luggage. Some flights connect through major hubs in the Middle East or Central Asia depending on which airline you choose. The mix of options means you can prioritise either lower price or shorter connections based on your preference.

Istanbul Airport sits farther from the city centre than Sabiha Gokcen, though both offer public transport links into town. Trains and buses connect each airport to central districts, with travel times varying according to traffic conditions. Sabiha Gokcen handles many low-cost carriers while the main international hub serves a broader range of airlines. Consider your final destination when deciding which arrival point suits your plans.

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

• Verify passport validity requirements for entry into Turkey before booking any ticket.
• Check whether your departure airport is Pudong or Hongqiao since both serve Shanghai with different connection options.
• Review baggage allowances carefully, especially if flying on a low-cost carrier that charges extra fees.
• Compare total journey times across different airlines rather than focusing only on flight duration.
• Confirm whether your tickets are issued together to avoid missing connections if one leg is delayed.