Cheap Flights from Riga to Istanbul Starting at $71

Riga International Airport (RIX) is Latvia’s primary international gateway and typically handles the bulk of long-haul and regional services, including full-service carriers and a number of low-cost airlines. Located about 10 km (roughly 20–30 minutes) from the city centre, it’s commonly reached by bus, taxi or rideshare; public buses and airport shuttles usually take around 25–35 minutes with fares generally in the low single-digit euros, while taxis can be quicker but cost notably more. The terminal is compact and generally easy to navigate, offering a balance of convenience and basic amenities, though peak times can feel crowded. For budget travellers, the presence of low-cost operators can mean competitive fares, whereas business travellers may appreciate the efficient transit links.

Fly direct from Riga to Istanbul for the quickest, most convenient way to reach Turkey’s vibrant cultural hub—no layovers, less hassle, and more time to explore. While connecting flights can sometimes be cheaper, a nonstop trip saves hours and offers a more comfortable journey so you arrive ready to enjoy Istanbul’s markets, sights, and cuisine.

Istanbul has two main airports serving different needs. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the large international hub handling most long-haul and full-service carriers; it can be pricier to reach but typically offers extensive connections and modern facilities. The airport lies about 40–50 km from the historic city center; travel times vary from roughly 30–60 minutes by taxi depending on traffic, or 40–60 minutes by Havaist/shuttle buses with fares usually in the moderate range. Pros: broad airline choice, new terminals and amenities. Cons: distance from central districts and potentially longer transfer times during peak traffic. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) serves many low-cost and regional airlines and can be a budget-friendly option for point-to-point travelers. Located on the Asian side roughly 30–45 km from central European-side attractions, journeys can take about 45–90 minutes by taxi or 60–90 minutes by public shuttle and metro-connection options, with fares typically lower than private transfers. Pros: often cheaper fares and less congestion for some routes. Cons: farther from European-side central areas and fewer long-haul connections compared with the main hub.

The route Riga — Istanbul is served by many carriers — 11 in total, including Turkish Airlines, airBaltic, Buzz, Ryanair, Norwegian Air International, Air Malta, Cityjet, Scandinavian Airlines, British Airways, LOT Polish Airlines, and Nordic Regional Airline. This gives passengers wide opportunities: from finding the lowest fare (from $71) to selecting flights by schedule or service class. Our service aggregates data from multiple booking systems so you can compare offers in one place. This saves time and money: no need to check dozens of sites — just pick the right option and book online.