✈️ Flight Chișinău - Istanbul: Flight Information
Below is the technical information that will help you plan your trip as accurately as possible.
- How long is the flight from Chișinău to Istanbul?
The average flight time is 1 hour 20 minutes - 1 hour 40 minutes. This is one of the fastest international routes from Moldova.
- What is the distance?
The distance between the capitals is approximately 650 km.
- Are there direct flights and which airlines operate?
Yes, direct flights operate daily. The main carriers on this route are:
- FlyOne – budget-friendly option, often offers the lowest fares.
- HiSky – Moldovan carrier with a convenient schedule.
- Turkish Airlines – flagship carrier, flights to the New Istanbul Airport (IST).
- Pegasus Airlines – Turkish low-cost airline, frequently flies to Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW).
💰 Ticket Price and How to Save with zbor.md
We analyzed prices and demand trends so you can buy your ticket at the best value.
- How much does a ticket cost?
The lowest recorded price on zbor.md is 35€. The average ticket price with baggage usually starts from 46€ one way.
- When is it cheaper to buy?
The optimal booking time is 3–4 weeks before departure. Buying “on the same day” may increase the price by 2–3 times.
- Which day of the week is the cheapest to fly?
Statistics show that flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually 15–20% cheaper than flights on Fridays or Sundays.
- Is it cheaper to fly from Iași?
Sometimes flights from Iași (IAS) can be 10–15 euros cheaper, especially when flying with Wizz Air. However, considering the transfer costs to Iași (about 15–20 euros) and travel time, a direct flight from Chișinău is often more cost-effective and convenient.
- Can you save with zbor.md?
Yes. Unlike other platforms, we give money back.
Your benefits:
- You receive 2500 welcome points (25€) right after registration.
- You receive 1% cashback for every purchased ticket.
Example: The ticket costs 100€. After purchase, you receive 100 points (1€). In total, you already have a discount for the next flight, and the 25€ welcome bonus can be used to pay part of the service fees.
🇹🇷 Upon Arrival: Visa and Transfer
- Do Moldovan citizens need a visa?
No. Moldovan citizens benefit from visa-free entry. You may stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. You only need a biometric passport valid for at least 150 days from the date of entry.
- How to get from Istanbul Airport to the city center?
Istanbul has two airports. Choose transportation depending on where you land:
| Airport |
Bus (Havaist/Havabus) |
Metro |
Taxi (approx.) |
| New Airport (IST) |
~ 6-7€ (to Taksim/Sultanahmet) |
M11 Line (fast and cheap, ~1-2€) |
30€ - 45€ |
| Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) |
~ 5-6€ (to Kadiköy/Taksim) |
M4 Line (to Kadiköy, ~1€) |
35€ - 50€ |
🕌 About the Destination: What You Should Know
- When is the best time to travel?
The ideal time is spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October). During these months, the temperature is comfortable for walking (+15...+25°C). Summer can be too hot and crowded, while winter is often windy — but hotel and flight prices are significantly lower.
- Top 3 places to visit first?
- Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque – the heart of the historic Sultanahmet district.
- Topkapi Palace – the residence of Ottoman sultans with a stunning view of the Bosphorus.
- Galata Tower and Istiklal Street – perfect for shopping, cafés and panoramic city views.