Bristol Airport has expanded its destination list to include Istanbul, named the most visited city worldwide in 2023. Just in time for summer, residents of Bristol and nearby areas can enjoy direct flights to experience the unique blend of culture, history, and modernity that makes Istanbul so captivating.
Istanbul offers an unforgettable mix of East and West. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Roaming the vibrant Sultanahmet district, cruising along the scenic Bosphorus Strait, and sampling authentic Turkish cuisine offer a truly immersive travel experience.
Travelers flying from Bristol can choose between two airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side, providing excellent access to central city attractions, and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, which connects conveniently to other areas of the metropolis.
READ MORE: Dame Joanna Lumley Embraces Living Day to Day as She Reflects on Aging
READ MORE: A417 Overnight Closures and Speed Limit Enforcement Continue Amid Major Bypass Construction
Currently, easyJet offers flights to Istanbul Airport twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays. Starting in July, Pegasus Airlines will introduce thrice-weekly flights to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, ensuring flexible options that serve both parts of the city.
Istanbul’s diverse neighborhoods capture its rich character. The historic Beyoğlu district features 19th-century European charm, Sultanahmet houses revered holy sites, Nişantaşı offers upscale shopping and dining, and Kadıköy presents a trendy, youthful vibe with lively cafes and bars.
Cultural attractions abound, including the Ayasofya Museum, Dolmabahçe Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Basilica Cistern. The city’s renowned museums offer a window into Istanbul’s layered history, providing visitors with a chance to explore its centuries-old heritage.
Visitors praise Istanbul for its vibrant contrast of old and new. One TripAdvisor reviewer describes it as a place packed with history, culture, shopping, museums, boat trips, and a variety of experiences unmatched anywhere else. Another highlights the city’s breathtaking architecture, warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and exciting nightlife.
According to Skyscanner, direct flights to Istanbul from Bristol start at around £82 one-way with easyJet, while new Pegasus Airlines routes are priced from approximately £90. Booking direct flights is essential, as indirect routes could dramatically increase costs.
With these new flight options, Istanbul’s rich heritage and dynamic lifestyle are more accessible than ever to travelers from Bristol this summer.