How to get from Istanbul to Antalya

Planning to travel from Istanbul to Antalya? This guide breaks down every realistic option—from fast flights to budget buses, scenic road trips, and even a high-speed-train-plus-bus combo—so you can choose the route that best fits your time, comfort level, and budget.

At A Glance (Istanbul to Antalya)

Mode	Duration	Best For
✈️ Direct Flight (IST/SAW → AYT)	~1h 10m in the air (+2–3h airport time)	Fastest, short trips, tight schedules
🏷️ Cost: Roughly 1,000–3,000 TRY one-way in economy (varies a lot by season and how early you book). Compare options on Booking.com Flights or check typical fares on Trip.com.
🚌 Direct Intercity Bus (Istanbul → Antalya)	~10.5–13h (often overnight)	Budget travelers, night travel, point-to-point drop-off
🏷️ Cost: From about 800–1,500 TRY one-way depending on date, company, and seat type. You can compare companies and timetables on 12Go Asia.
🚗 Self-Drive / Rental Car	~8–10h driving (~700 km), not counting stops	Road-trip fans, flexible itineraries, small groups
🏷️ Cost: 1–3 days’ car rental from roughly 1,200–3,000 TRY plus fuel and highway tolls. Check car hire deals in Antalya or Istanbul on Booking.com Car Rental.
🚆 High-Speed Train + Bus via Konya	~9–11h total (4.5–5h train + ~4–5h bus + transfers)	Train lovers, variety, breaking the trip in two
🏷️ Cost: Train tickets often from ~750–1,300 TRY Istanbul→Konya plus ~500–800 TRY for the Konya→Antalya bus. Check rough train prices on TCDD-linked booking portals, then compare Konya–Antalya buses on 12Go.
🚐 Flight + Pre-booked Transfer/Shuttle	~1h 10m flight + 30–60m airport↔hotel transfer	Door-to-door comfort, families, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: Flight as above, plus ~30–80 EUR per vehicle for an Antalya Airport transfer. Check private or shared transfers on Klook or book city-to-city / airport rides via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / Most convenient: If you just want to get there with minimal fuss (or have a short holiday), go for a direct flight from Istanbul to Antalya. This is usually only a little more expensive than the bus outside peak dates, and you save 8–10 hours of travel time.
• Cheapest / Most economical: Budget travelers who don’t mind long journeys or sleeping in a reclining seat should choose the overnight intercity bus. You save a hotel night and arrive right at Antalya’s main bus terminal.
• Most scenic / Most flexible: If you love road trips, renting a car and driving down the coast and through the Taurus Mountains gives you total freedom to stop in places like Burdur, Isparta, or coastal towns around Kemer.
• Comfort with extras: Combine a cheap domestic flight with a pre-booked airport transfer or shuttle if you’re traveling with children, lots of luggage, or arriving late at night, and want someone waiting with your name sign.
• For train fans & variety: Consider the high-speed train to Konya plus bus. It’s not the simplest, but it’s fun if you want to experience Türkiye’s modern YHT trains and see Konya on the way.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book flights 2–6 weeks ahead for better prices: Domestic fares can jump close to the date, especially in summer and during Turkish holidays. Use tools like Booking.com Flights and Trip.com to compare times and airlines.
• Reserve long-distance buses in advance in peak seasons: On summer weekends and around Bayram holidays, buses can sell out. Platforms like 12Go let you check multiple bus operators and seat layouts on one page, or you can book directly on Turkish bus-company sites or via local apps.
• Use local taxi and ride-hailing apps: To reach airports or bus terminals, locals commonly use public transport plus apps like BiTaksi, iTaksi (Istanbul’s municipal taxi app), and Uber (which works with licensed taxis). For fixed-price airport rides and English-speaking drivers, look at Welcome Pickups or quotes on GetTransfer.
• Consider luggage storage for awkward gaps: If you check out of your hotel hours before your flight or bus, stash your bags at staffed storage points with Radical Storage so you can wander around baggage-free.
• For road trips, book your car early: Prices climb in high season, especially for automatics. Compare self-drive options in Antalya and Istanbul on Booking.com Car Rental (Antalya), and if you want two wheels on the coast, check scooter and motorbike rentals via BikesBooking.
• Activities & multi-day tours: If you’d rather someone else handle the logistics, look at organized tours and transfer-inclusive packages on GetYourGuide (for routes that end in Antalya) or browse Antalya city and coastal tours once you arrive.

✈️ Option #1 — Direct Flight (Fastest & Most Convenient)

Fastest Frequent departures Great for short trips

• Overview: Direct flights from Istanbul’s airports (IST on the European side and SAW/Sabiha Gökçen on the Asian side) to Antalya Airport (AYT) take around 1 hour 10 minutes in the air. Door-to-door, expect about 3–4 hours including getting to the airport, check-in, security, and baggage claim.
• How to book (with price): Search Istanbul → Antalya on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com to see Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, AJet, and other carriers. One-way fares can range roughly from 1,000–3,000 TRY in economy on a normal day, but can be higher in peak summer or around holidays.
• Pros: By far the quickest door-to-door; lots of daily departures; comfortable and simple. Cons: Airport transfers and luggage rules; can be pricey at the last minute; possible delays in peak season.

Step-by-step: Direct Flight Istanbul → Antalya

1. Choose your departure airport: If you’re staying on the European side (Sultanahmet, Taksim, Galata), Istanbul Airport (IST) is usually more convenient. If you’re on the Asian side (Kadıköy, Üsküdar), Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) often makes more sense.
2. Reach the airport: Use Istanbul’s metro and bus network (Istanbulkart-compatible) to reach IST or SAW, or hail a taxi via BiTaksi, iTaksi, or Uber (taxis via app). For a pre-booked, fixed-price pickup with an English-speaking driver, you can arrange a ride with Welcome Pickups or a private transfer via GetTransfer.
3. Arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure: Domestic flights are more relaxed than international, but Turkey’s airports are busy. Arriving early gives you time for security, check-in, and grabbing a snack.
4. Fly Istanbul → Antalya: Flight time is around an hour; you’ll land at Antalya Airport (AYT), which has separate domestic and international terminals.
5. Transfer from AYT to your hotel: From the airport you can take the AntRay tram or public buses into the city, hop in a metered taxi, or use a pre-booked car/shuttle booked through Klook, Welcome Pickups, or a ride arranged on GetTransfer.
6. Check-in & relax: Once at your accommodation, drop your bags and you’re ready to explore Kaleiçi, Konyaaltı Beach, or the surrounding coast.

Getting to the main embarking points (Istanbul Airports)

• To Istanbul Airport (IST): From central areas like Taksim or Sultanahmet, you can combine metro/tram (M2 + M11) or dedicated airport buses (Havaist), or use taxi/ride-hailing apps. Journey time is roughly 40–90 minutes depending on traffic and where you start.
• To Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): From Kadıköy or Üsküdar, use city buses or the M4 metro plus airport buses, or book a taxi/ride via BiTaksi, iTaksi, or Uber. From the European side, allow extra time (bridges can be congested).
• From Antalya Airport (AYT) into town: The AntRay tram and city buses link the airport with Antalya Intercity Bus Terminal and the city center; you’ll need an AntalyaKart or single-use tickets. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are easiest if you’re arriving late or have lots of luggage.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Direct Intercity Bus (Most Popular, Great Value)

Low cost Central drop-off Overnight-friendly

• Overview: Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches connect Istanbul and Antalya directly. Most buses are modern, with assigned seats, USB charging, and rest stops along the way. Travel time is usually around 10.5–13 hours depending on route and traffic, and many departures are overnight so you can sleep on board.
• How to book (with price): Expect fares in the ballpark of 800–1,500 TRY one-way, varying by operator, date, and how early you book. You can compare different companies, departure times, and onboard amenities using 12Go Asia, or book via Turkish platforms and at bus-station ticket counters.
• Pros: Very budget-friendly; no airport hassle; lots of daily departures including overnight options; bags stored in the hold. Cons: Long sitting time; sleep quality depends on how you handle buses; occasional delays due to traffic or weather.

Step-by-step: Direct Bus Istanbul → Antalya

1. Choose your departure terminal: The main ones are usually Esenler/Otogar and sometimes Alibeyköy or other city terminals, depending on the bus company. Check your ticket carefully to see exactly which Istanbul terminal you leave from.
2. Compare bus companies & times: Use 12Go or local booking sites to compare departure times (day vs overnight), seat type (2+1 or 2+2 seating), and onboard extras (snacks, Wi-Fi, etc.). Pick a time that fits your schedule and tolerance for overnight travel.
3. Arrive at the bus terminal early: Aim to be there at least 30–45 minutes before departure. Large terminals can be confusing, so allow extra time to find your platform and confirm the bus number.
4. Store luggage & board: Checked bags go underneath; keep valuables and essentials in a small daypack to bring onboard. Show your ticket/QR code and find your assigned seat.
5. Enjoy the ride: There will be scheduled rest stops for bathroom and snacks. Overnight, bring layers, a travel pillow, and maybe earplugs/eye mask for better sleep.
6. Arrive at Antalya Intercity Bus Terminal: From Antalya Otogar, you can catch local buses, the tram, or a taxi straight to your hotel in Kaleiçi, Konyaaltı, Lara, or other districts.

Getting to the main embarking points (Istanbul Bus Terminals)

• Esenler/Otogar (Main Bus Station): Reachable by metro (M1 line) plus other local connections, or by taxi/ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi, iTaksi, or Uber. In rush hour, allow extra buffer time.
• Alibeyköy Bus Terminal: Connected by tram/metro and city buses; a taxi or app-based ride can be quicker if you’re carrying big luggage.
• From Antalya Otogar into town: Local buses and minibuses fan out to different districts; look for buses marked for your area (e.g., city center, Konyaaltı). Taxis are plentiful just outside the terminal.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #3 — Self-Drive / Rental Car (Scenic & Flexible)

Flexible schedule Great for side trips More responsibility

• Overview: Driving from Istanbul to Antalya is a full-day trip (roughly 8–10 hours of driving, depending on your route and stops). Roads are generally good highways with service areas, and the scenery becomes especially beautiful as you approach the Mediterranean coast and Taurus Mountains.
• How to book (with price): You can rent a car in Istanbul and drop it in Antalya, or vice versa, though one-way drop fees may apply. Daily rental rates vary widely but budget from about 1,200–3,000 TRY per day for a standard car, plus fuel and tolls. Compare options on Booking.com Car Rental (Istanbul) or Booking.com Car Rental (Antalya).
• Pros: Total flexibility; easy to stop at lakes, viewpoints, roadside restaurants, and smaller towns; great for families or groups splitting the cost. Cons: Long driving day; tolls, fuel, and parking fees add up; driving in Istanbul traffic can be stressful.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive Istanbul → Antalya

1. Pick your route: The most common route is south via Bursa/Eskişehir then on toward Burdur and Antalya on major highways. Some travelers include extra stops such as Pamukkale or lakes around Isparta, which might turn it into a 2-day trip.
2. Book your rental: Reserve in advance, especially in summer and for automatic cars. Decide whether you want to pick up and drop at airports or in-city locations, and check if cross-city one-way fees apply.
3. Collect the car & inspect it: Take photos of any existing scratches; confirm what fuel type it uses and how to handle toll transponders (HGS/OGS) that are usually built into the car.
4. Plan fuel and rest stops: Mark service areas roughly every 2–3 hours of driving. Many have restaurants, restrooms, and small shops, so you can rotate drivers, stretch, and re-caffeinate.
5. Narrow streets & parking in Antalya: Old Town (Kaleiçi) has tight lanes; it’s often easier to park just outside and walk in. Many hotels offer paid or free parking—confirm this when booking via Booking.com.
6. Optional: Add two wheels on arrival: If you want a scooter or motorbike just for exploring Antalya and nearby beaches, check options on BikesBooking once you’re in the region.

Getting to the main embarking points (City Pick-up Locations)

• Istanbul car pick-up: Many agencies have offices at Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), and in central districts like Taksim or Kadıköy. Choose a location that minimizes driving through heavy city traffic.
• Antalya car drop-off: Common drop points are Antalya Airport and downtown branches. If you’re staying in Kaleiçi, consider returning the car after arrival and exploring the city itself on foot and by tram.
• Using taxis/ride-hailing to pick-up points: Use BiTaksi, iTaksi, or Uber for a quick ride to pick up or drop off your rental car without worrying about parking in crowded areas.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚆 Option #4 — High-Speed Train to Konya + Bus (For Train Fans)

Comfortable train ride See another city More connections

• Overview: There is no direct train to Antalya, but you can take a YHT high-speed train from Istanbul to Konya and then continue by bus to Antalya. This turns the trip into two stages, letting you experience modern Turkish trains and visit Konya (home of the Mevlevi/whirling dervishes) on the way.
• How to book (with price): Istanbul→Konya high-speed trains typically take about 4.5–5 hours. Tickets often start around 750–1,300 TRY, depending on class and time. From Konya, buses to Antalya usually take around 4–5 hours and can cost roughly 500–800 TRY. You can check train schedules and fares via official TCDD channels, then look up Konya→Antalya buses on platforms like 12Go or local bus-booking sites.
• Pros: Comfortable train segment; chance to see Konya; breaks up the journey into two parts instead of one very long bus ride. Cons: More planning; you’ll need to coordinate train and bus times; usually not faster than a direct bus and seldom cheaper than a flight.

Step-by-step: High-Speed Train + Bus via Konya

1. Check train schedules: Look up Istanbul→Konya YHT departures on the official TCDD Taşımacılık channels or booking partners. Choose a departure that gives you a comfortable buffer for your bus connection in Konya.
2. Reach the Istanbul high-speed train station: Most high-speed services depart from stations such as Halkalı or Söğütlüçeşme/Pendik, depending on the specific train. Use metro, Marmaray, and local buses or taxis/ride-hailing apps to get there.
3. Take the train to Konya: Enjoy reserved seats, air conditioning, and onboard snacks. It’s a smooth and scenic ride through northwest and central Anatolia.
4. Transfer to Konya bus station: On arrival, you can take a taxi, local bus, or station-linked shuttle to Konya Otogar. Build in at least 45–60 minutes between scheduled train arrival and bus departure.
5. Bus Konya → Antalya: Board your bus and ride over the Taurus foothills toward the Mediterranean. Travel time is usually around 4–5 hours, with at least one rest stop.
6. Arrive in Antalya: You’ll usually arrive at Antalya Intercity Bus Terminal, where you can connect onward to your accommodation by tram, city bus, or taxi.

Getting to the main embarking points (Train & Bus Stations)

• Istanbul high-speed stations: Depending on your ticket, you may leave from Halkalı (western suburbs) or Asian-side stations such as Söğütlüçeşme or Pendik. Factor in time to cross the Bosphorus if you’re staying on the opposite side.
• Konya railway station: Located fairly close to the city center; taxis are usually waiting outside to take you to Konya Otogar if needed.
• Konya Otogar: A modern bus terminal with food, shops, and multiple departures to Antalya each day. Always reconfirm your platform and bus company before boarding.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #5 — Flight + Pre-booked Transfer or Shuttle (Door-to-Door)

Hassle-free Good with kids & luggage Higher total cost

• Overview: This is essentially Option #1 (flight) plus a pre-booked private car, minivan, or shuttle between airport and hotel. It’s ideal if you’re landing late, traveling with children or elderly relatives, or carrying bulky luggage like sports gear.
• How to book (with price): After booking your flight on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com, reserve an Antalya Airport transfer via Klook, Welcome Pickups, or custom city-to-city rides via GetTransfer. Typical prices start around 30–80 EUR per vehicle for central Antalya, depending on party size and vehicle type.
• Pros: Stress-free arrival, driver waiting with your name sign, direct drop-off at your accommodation. Cons: More expensive than using public tram/bus; you need to book in advance and communicate any flight delays.

Step-by-step: Flight + Transfer

1. Book your flight: Pick a time that fits your schedule and then immediately look at transfer options that match your arrival.
2. Reserve the transfer: On Klook, Welcome Pickups, or GetTransfer, select your arrival terminal (AYT domestic/international), accommodation, and group size. Add flight details so your driver can track delays.
3. Meet your driver: After landing and clearing baggage claim, look for your name sign at the agreed meeting point. Some services message you via app or WhatsApp with a photo of the driver/vehicle.
4. Ride straight to your hotel: Sit back and enjoy door-to-door service without worrying about ticket machines, taxis, or navigation right after your flight.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airports & Pick-up Zones)

• Istanbul hotel → airport: You can either use city transport + taxi apps (BiTaksi, iTaksi, Uber) or book a private pickup (for example, via Welcome Pickups) if you’d like someone to help with luggage and timing.
• Antalya Airport meeting points: Transfer companies specify exactly where to meet your driver (often outside arrivals, next to specific columns or desks). Read the instructions in your confirmation email or app carefully.
• Late-night arrivals: If you land after midnight, pre-booking avoids queues for taxis and ensures there’s a vehicle large enough for your group.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Istanbul to Antalya)

How long does it take to travel from Istanbul to Antalya?
Door-to-door, a direct flight usually takes about 3–4 hours including airport transfers and check-in time. Direct buses take roughly 10.5–13 hours, often overnight. Driving yourself is around 8–10 hours of wheel time without long sightseeing detours.

Is bus or flight better between Istanbul and Antalya?
If you value time and comfort, a flight is usually best and sometimes only modestly more expensive than a bus, especially if booked in advance. If you’re on a tight budget or like to travel overnight and save a hotel night, the bus is very good value and drops you directly at Antalya’s main terminal.

Is it safe to drive from Istanbul to Antalya?
For most visitors used to highway driving, the route is straightforward and safe in normal conditions. Stick to main highways, avoid driving when overly tired or in heavy storms, obey speed limits, and always carry your license, passport, and rental documents. In cities (especially Istanbul), traffic can be hectic, so consider picking up or dropping off cars at airports rather than deep in the city center.

Can I go from Istanbul to Antalya by train?
There is no direct train line all the way to Antalya; the nearest major rail hub is Konya. A popular workaround is to take a high-speed train from Istanbul to Konya and then continue by bus to Antalya. It’s fun for train enthusiasts but not quicker than a direct bus or flight.

Which airport should I fly from: IST or SAW?
Choose the airport that’s easier to reach from where you’re staying. If your accommodation is on the European side, Istanbul Airport (IST) is usually more convenient. If you’re staying on the Asian side, Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) can save you time and taxi costs. Also check which airport your chosen airline uses for domestic routes to Antalya.

Where should I stay in Antalya if I’m coming from Istanbul?
For first-time visitors, Old Town (Kaleiçi) and its surroundings offer charming streets and easy access to historic sites. Konyaaltı is great for beach lovers with a city vibe, while Lara and Belek have more resort-style hotels. You can browse options and filter by neighborhood, budget, and facilities on Booking.com.