Cheap Flights from Istanbul to Riga — $56

Istanbul is served mainly by two airports with distinct roles. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the city’s large international hub and typically handles most long-haul and full-service carriers; it can be seen as the premium gateway with more lounges, shops and transfer options. Located about 35–45 km north of the historic centre, travel times vary from roughly 35–70 minutes by car depending on traffic, or about 40–60 minutes by Havaist airport shuttle and metro links; fares for shuttles and taxis can range widely depending on route and time. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) sits on the Asian side and is often used by low-cost and regional carriers; it’s typically cheaper on budget routes and about 40–60 km from central districts with road travel of 45–90 minutes, or roughly the same by Havatas/Havaist buses and shared shuttles at modest fares. Pros: IST offers extensive connectivity and facilities for transfers, while SAW can be easier for travellers on the Asian side or those seeking lower fares. Cons: both can be affected by heavy Istanbul traffic and peak-period delays, and inter-airport transfers can add time and cost.

Riga International Airport (RIX) is Latvia’s primary gateway and typically functions as a regional international hub, handling both full-service and low-cost carriers such as airBaltic and several budget operators. Flights to Western and Eastern Europe are usually competitively priced compared with nearby capitals. The airport lies about 10 km (roughly 15–25 minutes by car) from Riga’s Old Town; regular bus lines (Route 22) and express shuttle services connect the terminal to the city center in roughly 25–40 minutes, with fares commonly falling in the modest range for public transport and higher for taxis or ride-hailing. Pros: compact layout, modern amenities and a point-to-point network that can be convenient for quick transfers. Cons: limited late-night options on some routes and fewer long-haul connections than larger European hubs.

More than 11 airlines operate flights from Istanbul to Riga, including Turkish Airlines, airBaltic, Wizz Air, Pegasus Airlines, Valuair, East African Safari Air, Scandinavian Airlines, British Airways, LOT Polish Airlines, Wizz Air, and Air Malta. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $56, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.