The world’s most visited city of 2023 is about to become even more accessible for British tourists, as new direct flights are set to launch this July. Earlier this year, Bristol Airport announced it would be expanding the number of destinations it offers to travellers, including Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey.
Currently, passengers can fly to Istanbul Airport (IST) on Mondays and Fridays with easyJet. However, from July, Brits will be able to jet off to the beloved Eurasian country with Pegasus Airlines, headed for Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). The direct flights will operate three times a week.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport is the secondary international airport serving Istanbul, located 20 miles southeast of the city centre in the Asian part of the transcontinental city. Istanbul Airport, meanwhile, is located 39 miles west of the European side. The new flights mean that travellers will be granted access to both areas of the city with ease.
“Holidays in Istanbul promise an unforgettable mix of East and West, with must-see sights including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the bustling Grand Bazaar,” said Bristol Airport.
“Wander through the vibrant streets of Sultanahmet, cruise the Bosphorus, and savour authentic Turkish cuisine in local eateries.
“Fly from Bristol into Istanbul Airport (IST), located on the European side and ideal for central access, or Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, which also offers excellent connections and convenient access to different parts of the city.”
On the European side, the Fatih district corresponds to what was the whole of Constantinople until the Ottoman conquest. Istanbul contains many ancient, Roman, Byzantine, Christian, Muslim and Jewish monuments, despite its development as a Turkish city since the 1920s. The most ancient monument is the Obelisk of Thutmose III, which stands 100ft high and built from red granite.
The iconic Sultan Ahmed Mosque is also known as the “Blue Mosque” due to the blue İznik tiles which adorn its interior. It lies just behind the Obelisk.
According to Skyscanner, flights to Istanbul in June start around £82 one-way with easyJet. The new Pegasus Airlines flights are also available for £90.
However, soon-to-be travellers are advised to make sure they book flights on day where there is a direct route, otherwise your ticket could double in price.