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Paris to Istanbul is one of Europe’s busiest routes to Turkey, with many direct flights a day and strong competition between full-service and low-cost airlines. The flight takes around three and a half hours. Compare live prices below.
Paris to Istanbul at a glance
| Detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Flight time | About 3 h 20 min to 3 h 40 min direct |
| Paris airports | Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY) |
| Istanbul airports | Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) |
| Airlines you will often see | Turkish Airlines, Air France, Pegasus, AJet |
Routes and airlines change by season. Confirm the current options in the search results, and try SAW as the destination too.
Which airports to choose?
In Paris, Charles de Gaulle has the most flights to Istanbul, though Orly can have options too. In Istanbul, IST on the European side is best for the old town and Beyoglu, while SAW on the Asian side often has lower fares with low-cost airlines but is further from the main sights.
Cheapest time to fly
French school holidays push prices up, especially in summer, at Toussaint, Christmas and in February. January to March outside the holidays and November are often the cheapest periods. April, May and October offer the best mix of mild weather and good fares.
Tips to pay less
- Search all Paris airports with the PAR code.
- Compare IST and SAW by changing the destination code.
- Check what is included: full-service tickets often include a checked bag and a meal.
- Fly midweek when your dates are flexible.
Compare Paris to Istanbul fares for your dates.
Entry requirements
French and most other EU citizens can usually visit Turkey for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Check the official advice for your nationality before you travel.
Book the rest of your Turkey trip
- Airport transfer: a driver waits at arrivals with a name sign, no taxi queues.
- Turkey eSIM: mobile data from the moment you land.
- Tours and attractions: boat trips, guided tours and skip-the-line tickets.
- Travel insurance: cover for medical costs and trip cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from Paris to Istanbul?
Around 3 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes.
Is it cheaper to fly into Sabiha Gokcen?
Often, thanks to low-cost airlines. Add the time and cost of reaching your hotel before deciding.