Cheap Flights from Tehran to Istanbul — $128

Flights from Tehran to Istanbul are operated by several airlines — Pegasus Airlines, Mahan Airlines, and Qatar Airways. This allows passengers to flexibly choose flights based on departure time, cost, and additional services. The minimum ticket price starts at $128, making this destination accessible to travelers with different budgets. We help compare all available options in real time, so you can book tickets at the best value for money. The service ensures transparent search and lets you book affordable flights in just a few clicks.

The only airline operating direct flights from Tehran to Istanbul is Mahan Airlines. Flights operate every day.

Istanbul is served primarily by two major airports: the international Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side, a large long-haul hub handling most full-service carriers and many international connections, and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side, often used by low-cost and regional airlines. IST sits roughly 35–50 km from the historic center depending on traffic; travel options include taxis (about 30–60 minutes), Havaist shuttle buses (roughly 40–70 minutes with fares typically in a moderate range), and planned rail links. SAW is around 35–45 km from central areas, reachable by airport shuttle services, buses, and taxis in similar timeframes but sometimes with lower fares. IST can be more convenient for global connections and premium services, while SAW may be more budget-friendly or quicker for passengers based on origin/destination; both can be affected by heavy road congestion, so allow extra time.

Tehran is served primarily by two airports with distinct roles. Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) functions as the main international gateway and typically handles long-haul and many full-service carriers; it sits roughly 45–60 km southwest of central Tehran and can take about 40–70 minutes by taxi or 60–90 minutes by airport bus, with fares generally higher than city transit. Mehrabad Airport (THR) operates mainly as a domestic and regional hub for local and budget-friendly carriers, located much closer to the city—around 8–12 km west of downtown—and reachable in 20–40 minutes by taxi or city bus. Travelers can expect IKA to offer more international amenities but a longer transfer into the city, while THR is more convenient for domestic connections yet can be busier and less modern. Ground options include taxis, buses, and private shuttles, with travel times and costs varying by traffic and time of day.

The cost of a one-way flight from Tehran to Istanbul ranges from $134 (July 2026) to $143 (September 2026). On average, the ticket price is about $138–$139.