If you are looking for a unique experience of traveling to Türkiye, Land trip to Istanbul It is one of the best options. In this way, you can enjoy the natural beauty along the way and in a different way Istanbul city arrive By choosing this type of trip, in addition to saving money, you will create sweet and unforgettable memories for you and your companions. in this Land travel guide to IstanbulWe examine all the exit routes from the borders, travel costs and road facilities. Stay with us to Sights of Istanbul also know better.
Index of this article
Land trip to Istanbul by bus
Land travel guide to Istanbul By bus is one of the most convenient and economical ways to reach this beautiful city. This method is especially attractive to travelers who do not want to incur high flight costs or are looking for a different experience. In recent years, traveling by bus to Istanbul has become very popular and the number of people using this method has increased.
The main destinations for traveling by bus to Istanbul
In Iran, the two main sources are Tehran and Tabriz, for Istanbul land trip There is by bus. Many travelers travel from Tehran to Istanbul, but it is also possible to travel from Tabriz. Usually, passengers in Tehran have more options to choose a bus, and this is the reason why discounted tickets are less available on this route. The route from Tabriz to Istanbul is also very suitable for people who live in the northwestern regions of the country or who plan to cross the borders close to Türkiye.
One-way travel conditions
One of the important points in Land trip to Istanbul With the bus, you should keep in mind that this trip is one-way. This means that you have to buy a bus ticket again to return. This is important because some people may want to change their return plan after arriving in Istanbul or use other methods such as airplanes to return to Iran.
Travel time and facilities
The land trip by bus to Istanbul usually takes between 30 and 35 hours. This time includes stops along the way to rest, refuel and perform border formalities. Most of the buses that operate on this route have facilities such as comfortable seats, air conditioning systems, television and even some catering services that make the trip more enjoyable for you.
expenses
expenses Istanbul land trip By bus it is usually much less compared to other modes of transportation. Of course, this cost can vary depending on the bus company and travel time. It is better to compare prices before buying tickets and use seasonal discounts or special offers. In fact, if you are looking for a different and low-cost travel experience, buses are a good option that allow you to visit different cities along the way.
Land trip to Istanbul by train
If you don’t like to travel by car or don’t want to drive long, you can reach Türkiye by train in about 70 hours. how There are two main routes for traveling by rail to Türkiye, which are below Land travel guide to Istanbul Let’s talk about it:
- Tabriz-Van train
- Tehran-Ankara train
These two options provide you with a different experience of traveling to Türkiye.
Land trip to Istanbul by Tehran-Ankara train
If you intend to Tehran city Travel to Istanbul by train and you have chosen the Tehran-Ankara train, you should be prepared for a long journey. This journey takes about 70 hours and 3 days. Although you may feel tired during the journey, you have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery and sights along the way. In this route, three-star trains serve passengers with full facilities and provide a comfortable travel experience.
On this route, the train passes through important stations such as Tabriz, Selmas, Razi border in Iran and Kapi Koi and Van borders in Türkiye. The total rail distance from Tehran to Ankara is approximately 2,080 km, and then you have to travel another 450 km to reach Istanbul. In this part of the route, you can use Halki Ankara high-speed trains to continue the journey to Istanbul.

Tehran-Ankara train schedule and intercity train stations
day | departure time | stop | arrival time | Distance to the station | Station name | |
Wednesday | 22:15 | – | – | 315 | Tehran | |
Wednesday | 2:16 | 3 | 2:13 | 421 | Zanjan | |
Wednesday | 10:25 | 50 | 9:35 | 151 | Tabriz | |
Wednesday | 13:28 | 20 | 13:08 | 71 | Selmas | |
Wednesday | – | – | 14:45 | 2 | a secret | |
Thursday | The train does not stop at the border zero point | 3 | Border zero point | |||
Thursday | 17:40 | – | – | 107 | Kapikoy | |
Thursday | 19:48 | 15 | 19:33 | 7 | One station | |
Thursday | – | – | 19:56 | Van Lake | One pier | |
Friday | 4:57 | – | – | 5 | Tatvan Pier | |
Friday | 7:15 | 130 | 5:05 | 343 | Tatwan station | |
Friday | 15:46 | 11 | 15:35 | 121 | Alaziq | |
Friday | 18:20 | 15 | 18:05 | 252 | Malatya | |
Friday | 22:55 | 17 | 22:38 | 221 | Sivas | |
Friday | 2:41 | 16 | 2:25 | 380 | Kayseri | |
Saturday | 10:22 | 60 | 10:00 | 254 | Ankara |
Tehran-Ankara train return route schedule (Ankara-Tehran train schedule and route) and intercity train stations
day | departure time | stop | arrival time | Distance to the station | Station name | ||
Wednesday | 10:25 | 100 | 8:45 | 380 | Ankara | ||
Wednesday | 17:30 | 17 | 17:13 | 221 | Kayseri | ||
Wednesday | 21:36 | 41 | 20:55 | 252 | Sivas | ||
Wednesday | 3:02 | 46 | 2:16 | 121 | Malatya | ||
Wednesday | 6:31 | 53 | 5:38 | 343 | Alaziq | ||
Wednesday | 14:45 | 5 | 14:40 | 5 | Tatwan station | ||
Thursday | – | – | 14:53 | Van Lake | Tatvan Pier | ||
Thursday | 21:30 | – | – | 7 | One pier | ||
Thursday | 21:54 | 15 | 21:39 | 107 | One station | ||
Thursday | 1:30 | 95 | 23:55 | 3 | Kapikoy | ||
Thursday | The train does not stop at the border zero point | 2 | Border zero point | ||||
Friday | 3:30 | 10 | 3:20 | 71 | a secret | ||
Friday | 5:08 | 20 | 4:48 | 151 | Selmas | ||
Friday | 8:21 | 50 | 7:31 | 421 | Tabriz | ||
Friday | 16:03 | 3 | 16:00 | 315 | Zanjan | ||
Friday | – | – | 20:05 | – | Tehran |
Land trip to Istanbul by Tabriz-Van train
How to travel by land to Istanbul Using the Tabriz-Van train is one of the right options for people who are looking for a different and affordable experience. This railway line, which has been launched since 1380, allows travelers to easily travel to Türkiye by passing through beautiful and natural landscapes. Proximity Tabriz city To the border of Türkiye has caused this route compared to the other The land way to go to Istanbulbe more economical.
One of the advantages of this route is the exemption of Iranian citizens from the need for a visa to enter Turkey. This topic is especially attractive for people who are looking to reduce travel expenses, and it has made traveling to Istanbul an economical and convenient option.
In this trip, you will first reach Van city by train from Tabriz. Van is one of the important and historical cities of Türkiye near the Iranian border, which is known for its beautiful nature and famous lake. After arriving in Van, you will travel by ferry to Tatuan, a city near Van. This part of the trip is a special experience that allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Van Lake.
After you reach Tatuan, Land trip to Istanbul It begins. This route is about 1500 km that you can travel by train. Turkish trains have good facilities for passengers and allow you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the route during this long journey.
according to Land travel guide to Istanbul Through this route, in addition to economic aspects, it is an opportunity to experience an adventurous and relaxing trip.

Schedule of Tabriz One train and intercity train stations
day | departure time | stop | arrival time | Distance to the station | Station name | ||
Monday | 22:35 | – | – | 151 | Tabriz | ||
Monday | 2:50 | 2:00 | 0:50 | 71 | Selmas | ||
Monday | 4:25 | 0:15 | 4:10 | 2 | a secret | ||
Tuesday | The train does not stop at the border zero point | 3 | Border zero point | ||||
Tuesday | 4:35 | 1:30 | 3:05 | 107 | Kapikoy | ||
Tuesday | – | – | 8:30 | – | One station | ||
Friday | 3:30 | 10 | 3:20 | 71 | a secret | ||
Friday | 5:08 | 20 | 4:48 | 151 | Selmas | ||
Friday | 8:21 | 50 | 7:31 | 421 | Tabriz | ||
Friday | 16:03 | 3 | 16:00 | 315 | Zanjan | ||
Friday | – | – | 20:05 | – | Tehran |
Land trip to Istanbul by private car
In response, with a private car How to go to Istanbul by land?It must be said that Istanbul land trip With a private car is one of the special and exciting experiences that allows travelers to have more freedom of action and visit various attractions along the way. If you plan to do this adventurous trip, it is necessary that before departure, Land travel guide to Istanbul Keep in mind to experience a safe and enjoyable trip.
Before the beginning Land trip to Istanbul With a private car, you need to obtain several necessary permits and documents:
- Car insurance for abroad: When traveling to Turkey, you must have an insurance policy that covers your car outside of Iran. You can get this type of insurance from reputable insurance companies in person or online. The insurance policy must include the necessary coverage in Turkey and other routes.
- International certificate: To drive on Turkish roads, you need an international license. This license allows you to drive in Türkiye and other countries without any problems. You can get this certificate through the Islamic Republic of Iran Tourism and Motoring Center.
- License plate and international car documents: International license plate is another document that you must prepare. The international license plate is your car’s ID when traveling to foreign countries. This license plate needs to be issued for each trip and cannot be used in previous trips. CD or IR tags are also required to identify the nationality of your vehicle.
- Permission to leave the country: In order to leave your car from the borders of Iran, you must get a permit to leave the country. You can also get this permit from authorized centers related to customs or tourist centers.
- Map and route guide: It is helpful to have detailed maps or online navigation programs with you. The routes that go from different borders of Iran to Türkiye have their own characteristics that should be carefully examined.
Selection of border routes
To cross the border and enter Turkey by private car, there are two main routes available:
- Merchant border: Bazargan border is one of the most popular routes to enter Türkiye. This border is located near the city of Mako and it is very easy to access it for those who travel from the northwest of Iran. Through Bazargan border, your main route starts from Turkish roads towards Istanbul.
- Marz Razi: This border is located near the city of Khoy and is less busy than the Bazargan border. The route crossing the Razi border will also take you to Istanbul, but you may experience a different route in terms of length and road conditions.
in fact, Land trip to Istanbul Traveling by car is a different experience than traveling by air or train. This type of travel allows you to enjoy not only the destination, but also the route. With careful planning and attention to Land travel guide to IstanbulYou can enjoy a memorable and adventurous trip. Although this type of travel requires special preparations, freedom of action and the possibility of stopping on the way to visit different places are among its advantages.
Land travel limits to Istanbul
that How to go to Istanbul by land?It should be said that the land borders to travel to Istanbul through the different borders of Iran are one of the popular options for travelers who want to travel to this country by private car or even by bus. In this trip, getting to know the borders and the route you are crossing will help you choose the best and most suitable route and enjoy the natural and urban attractions along the way. In the following, we introduce the land borders of Iran and Türkiye and check the distance of different cities from each border to Istanbul.
Merchant border
Bazargan border is the most popular land border between Iran and Türkiye, which is chosen by many travelers due to its proximity to major Iranian cities, good facilities and 24-hour availability. Bus fare from Bazargan border to Istanbul It is very economical. This border is located 290 km from Tabriz and near the city of Mako. To reach Bazargan border from Tabriz, you pass through the cities of Marand and Mako.
Land borders for traveling to Istanbul:
- Tabriz to Bazargan border: 290 km
- Die to Mako: It is on the way.
- Bazargan border to Gorbulaq: 0 km (common border)
After entering Türkiye:
- Gorbulaq to Doghu Baizid: 40 km
- Dogu Baizid to Aghri: 90 km
- Aghri to Erzurum: 184 km
- Erzurum to Arzinjan: 188 km
- Arzinjan to Amasya: 367 km
- Amasya to Bulo: 413 km
- Bulu to Izmit: 160 km
- Izmit to Istanbul: 102 km
- Total distance from Bazargan border to Istanbul: 1626 km

Marz Razi
This border is located 65 km from Khoy city and is the second most popular choice for traveling to Türkiye after Bazargan border. One of the advantages of this border is the proximity to the city of Van.
- My mood is a secret: 65 km
- Razi border to Van city: 102 km
After crossing the border:
- Van to Tatvan: 143 km
- Tatvan to the mouse: 83 km
- Rat to Bingul: 114 km
- Bingol to Elazig: 142 km
- Elazig to Malatya: 100 km
- Malatya to Kayseri: 341 km
- Kayseri to Golbashi: 304 km
- Golbashi to Bolo: 206 km
- Bolo to Dozje: 45 km
- Dozjeh to Sakarya: 86 km
- Sakarya to Gebze: 98 km
- Gebze to Istanbul: 63 km
- Total distance from Razi border to Istanbul: 1644 km

Cedar border
This border is located 60 km from Urmia, and you can also go from this border Land trip to Istanbul have Due to its mountainous location and cold weather, this border requires more preparation for traveling in cold seasons.
- Urmia to the Serow border: 60 km
After crossing the border:
- Cedar to Yuxekwa: 56 km
- Yuxekwa to Su Osto: 16 km
- So it’s beautiful: 68 km
- Bashkale to Tatuan: 219 km
- Tatvan to the mouse: 83 km
- Rat to Bingul: 114 km
- Bingol to Elazig: 142 km
- Elazig to Malatya: 100 km
- Malatya to Kayseri: 341 km
- Kayseri to Golbashi: 304 km
- Golbashi to Bolo: 206 km
- Bolo to Dozje: 45 km
- Dozjeh to Sakarya: 86 km
- Sakarya to Gebze: 98 km
- Gebze to Istanbul: 63 km
- The total distance from the Seru border to Istanbul: 1938 km

Administrative affairs leaving the country to travel to Istanbul by private car
that How to go to Istanbul by land? checked, now you need to get acquainted with a series of necessary administrative measures for this trip, without which it is not possible to legally leave the car from the borders of Iran. In continuation of this Land travel guide to Istanbul These matters will be addressed.
International certificate
International driving license is one of the first and most important documents that you should carry to drive in other countries. Iran’s internal driver’s license is only valid inside the country, so you need an international driver’s license to drive in Türkiye and other foreign countries.
This certificate is valid for one year and you must renew it every year. The cost of issuing an international certificate varies annually and is usually issued through the Islamic Republic of Iran Tourism and Motoring Center. There are two ways to get this certificate:
- Online application: You can apply online through the website of the Automobile Tourism Center.
- Visit in person: You can visit the authorized centers and agencies of the Tourism and Automobile Center in Tehran and other cities.
Membership in the tourism and motoring center
For travelers who travel to Istanbul by car, membership in the tourism and motoring center is essential. This membership allows you to use the special services of this center during ground trips. This membership is valid for one year and you have to pay a fee to get it.
International license plate
International number plate is required for private cars traveling abroad. This license plate is assigned to the car and does not belong to the car owner. Therefore, if you sell your car, this license plate must remain with the car and will no longer be usable for you.
This license plate is issued by the Tourism and Motoring Center, and if you have a new car, you must get a new license plate on your next trips. The international license plate is actually a license to drive a car in other countries and you cannot leave the border without it.
CD or IR label
One of the other documents required to identify the car in foreign countries is special labels called CD or IR. These stickers are installed in the rear window of the car and help foreign authorities to quickly identify your car. Installation of these stickers is not mandatory, but it is recommended that you obtain and install these stickers to avoid any problems in other countries.
Cabotage (permit to leave the country)
Cabotage means issuing a license to leave the country. After completing the documents and receiving the license plate and international certificate, you must apply for this license. Without a hood, it is not possible to cross the borders of the country. The cover is valid for a certain period and you must use it at the designated time.
International car insurance
International car insurance is another document that you need to drive in foreign countries. This insurance covers you in case of accidents abroad. When applying for a cover, you must also renew your car insurance.
These administrative actions will help you to Land trip to Istanbul Experience safe and comfortable driving with a private car without any legal problems.
Car insurance tips before you leave the country
When planning for Land trip to Istanbul With a private car, one of the necessary steps is to get car insurance. You have several options to get this insurance. The first option is that you can get an insurance card from one of the reliable insurance branches. If you do not have access to insurance branches, you can coordinate by contacting the insurance branches located in Bazargan border to pay the insurance fee and send the insurance card to you by post.
If you arrive at the border and have not yet purchased car insurance, you can ask someone who is with you to cross the border and get the insurance policy from Türkiye. If you plan to travel from the Razi border to Istanbul, you should be prepared to pay more fees in addition to possible delays. Also note that the validity of the insurance is only 15 days and its price is different in different companies.
Fees for leaving the country on a land trip to Istanbul in 1403
Türkiye, especially Istanbul, is one of the popular travel destinations for Iranians. To travel to Turkey, whether by air or land, you must pay the exit tax. These fees for traveling to Türkiye in 1403 are as follows:
- First trip: 520 thousand tomans
- Second trip: 780 thousand tomans
- Third trip: 1 million and 40 thousand tomans
Exit fees for land trips to Türkiye are no different from air travel fees and the cost is the same. But if you live as a border resident in one of Iran’s border cities, the fees for leaving the country may be different for your land trips, and the fees for border residents are calculated according to the following cases.
- The first timer in the year: 25 thousand tomans
- Second trip in a year: 600 thousand tomans
- The third trip in a year: 800 thousand tomans
In any case, to get accurate and up-to-date information, it is better to contact the relevant authorities or visit the official websites.
When is the best time to travel by land to Istanbul?
If you are looking for an economical and affordable experience of traveling to Istanbul, choose The best time to travel to Istanbulcan significantly reduce your costs. In Istanbul, some seasons of the year are quieter than others and, accordingly, the prices are lower. To get the best experience and spend less money, the following times are suggested:
- From early November to mid-December: This period, after the end of the autumn season and before the start of the Christmas holidays, is one of the best times for a cheap trip to Istanbul.
- From early January to mid-March: After the New Year holidays, this period is one of the quietest tourist seasons in Istanbul. The prices are reduced during these months and you can have a comfortable and enjoyable stay with a limited budget. Also, the streets and malls will be relatively quieter, making for a more relaxing ground travel experience.
Should we travel to Istanbul with a tour or go on our own?
Deciding between a tour to Istanbul or Land trip to Istanbul It depends on factors like budget, convenience, time and personal taste. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages that can affect your choice:
Traveling with a tour to Istanbul means having complete planning and comfort services provided by tour companies. The advantages of this option include:
- Comfort and convenience: With a tour, most travel-related matters are handled by the agency, including hotel reservations, transportation, and even travel plans.
- Local guide: Tour guides can provide detailed and useful information about local attractions and culture.
- Easier planning: Tours usually include predetermined tourist plans, which makes the trip organized and without the need for complicated planning.
Land trip to Istanbul From Iran, it means an independent and flexible experience. The advantages of this option include:
- More freedom of action: You can customize your itinerary and visit wherever you want.
- Cost savings: Land travel may be less expensive than organized tours, especially if you travel by car.
- More local experience: Land travel allows you to cross different routes and get to know different cultures.
Ultimately, choosing between these two options depends on your preferences and needs. If you are looking for complete convenience and organization, Istanbul tour It is a good choice. But if you want independence and unique experiences, Land trip to Istanbul It could be a better option.
Where to stay in Istanbul?
For accommodation in Istanbul, there are various choices that can vary according to your taste and needs. If you are looking for a luxury stay with premium facilities, five-star hotels in Istanbul with easy access to shopping centers, historical attractions and famous restaurants will be the right options for you.
For a unique experience, you can get the best Istanbul Hotel Choose the ones that offer special designs and high quality services. These hotels bring you a different and attractive stay with their traditional atmosphere and special architecture.
If you are looking for more economical options, Istanbul’s mid-range hotels and apartments in different neighborhoods with convenient facilities and reasonable prices can be good choices for you.
final word
in this Land travel guide to Istanbul We discussed the borders and different travel routes to Istanbul. Land trip to Istanbul Through different borders, it can be an exciting and different experience of traveling to this historical city. With proper planning and knowing the costs and routes, you can experience an affordable and enjoyable trip. Istanbul will welcome you with its rich history, dynamic culture and many attractions. So, with careful preparation and an adventurous spirit, go to this amazing city and from every moment Travel to Istanbul Make the most of it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best border for land travel to Istanbul?
Merz Bazargan, because it offers the best route and services in terms of road, and it has a shorter distance to Istanbul.
How many hours is the land distance from Tehran to Istanbul?
The land distance from Tehran to Istanbul takes about 24 to 30 hours.
How to go to Istanbul by land?
Take a private car or bus from Tehran to Bazargan border, then continue to Istanbul via Türkiye.
When traveling by land to Istanbul, how much do we have to pay for exiting the country?
The fees for leaving the country to travel to Türkiye in 1403 is about 520 thousand tomans for the first trip.
What is the shortest land route to Istanbul?
The shortest route from Tehran to Istanbul is Tehran-Tabriz-Bazargan-Istanbul route.
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