Cheap Flights from Istanbul to Xian — $283

Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY) serves as the main international and domestic gateway for Xi’an and the broader Shaanxi region, typically handling a mix of full-service Chinese carriers and low-cost domestic operators. Located about 40–45 km northwest of the city center, transfer times by airport express bus are usually 50–70 minutes (fares commonly in a modest range), while taxis or ride-hailing can take around 45–60 minutes depending on traffic and typically cost more. Trains and shuttle services link the terminals to nearby transport hubs for onward connections. Pros: relatively modern facilities and frequent flight options; cons: longer transfer distances to downtown and variable peak-hour congestion.

Istanbul is served by two main airports with distinct roles. Istanbul Airport (IST) functions as the city’s primary international hub, handling many full-service carriers and long-haul routes; it’s located roughly 35–50 km northwest of the historic center, with taxi rides typically taking 40–70 minutes depending on traffic and costing in a mid-range bracket, while the Havaist and municipal buses offer cheaper transfers in about 60–90 minutes. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) sits on the Asian side and is often positioned as the budget and low-cost option for domestic and short-haul international flights; it’s about 35–45 km from central Sultanahmet, with airport shuttles and buses taking 60–90 minutes and fares usually lower than taxis. Pros: IST provides extensive route options and modern facilities; SAW can be cheaper and less congested for some low-cost carriers. Cons: both can involve long transit times to the historic core, and transfers between the two airports can be time-consuming and may add cost.

Fly nonstop from Istanbul to Xi’an for the fastest, most convenient way to reach China’s ancient capital—no layovers, less hassle, and more time to enjoy the sights. While connecting options can sometimes be cheaper, a direct flight saves precious travel time and adds comfort, making it ideal for busy travelers eager to get straight to the Terra Cotta Warriors and historic city center.

The Istanbul — Xian route is served by a wide range of airlines: 11 in total, including China Eastern Airlines, SCAT, Nas Air, Sichuan Airlines, Kinda Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Valuair, Azerbaijan Airlines, Pobeda, China Southern Airlines, and Pegasus Airlines. Competition among carriers gives passengers the opportunity to find tickets at attractive fares — with prices starting from $283. Our service helps compare all available offers within seconds and choose the most convenient option. You can filter flights by price, departure time, or baggage rules to make your trip as comfortable as possible. With so many airlines, there’s always a chance to catch special promotions and save.