Planning a trip from Sydney to Istanbul? One of the first things people ask is, “How long will the flight take?” And that’s a fair question — it’s a long way!


Let’s go over how many hours it takes, what kind of flights are available, and what you can do to make the trip a little easier.


No Direct Flights Right Now

At the moment, there are no non-stop flights between Sydney and Istanbul. So, you’ll need to take a flight with at least one stop. The stopover could be in places like Dubai, Doha, Singapore, or sometimes even Kuala Lumpur.


Yes, it can be a bit tiring, but most major airlines make it as smooth as possible.


How Long Is the Trip?


The total flight time from Sydney to Istanbul is usually between 20 to 24 hours. That includes both flying time and the stopover.


The actual time you’re in the air is usually around 18 to 22 hours, depending on the route and airline. Some flights take longer if the layover is long or the flight path is less direct.


So it’s a long journey, but it’s manageable if you’re prepared.


Example Routes


To give you an idea, here are some real examples:


  • Emirates: Sydney to Dubai (14 hrs), short stop, then Dubai to Istanbul (5 hrs).
  • Total trip time: Around 22-23 hours.


  • Qatar Airways: Sydney to Doha (14 hrs), short break, then Doha to Istanbul (5 hrs).
  • Total trip time: Around 21 hours.


  • Singapore Airlines: Sydney to Singapore (8 hrs), layover, then Singapore to Istanbul (11 hrs).
  • Total trip time: Around 22 hours.


There are many flights from Sydney to Istanbul, so it’s a good idea to check different airlines and see which one has the best schedule and price.


Things to Keep in Mind


  • Time difference: Istanbul is 7 hours behind Sydney. So, when it’s evening in Sydney, it’s morning in Istanbul.

  • Waiting times: Some layovers are just 2-3 hours. Others can be much longer. Try to pick a flight with a layover that suits your comfort.

  • Prices vary: Sometimes a cheaper flight means a longer stop. It’s all about finding the right balance for you.

Tips for Long Flights


  • Wear comfy clothes. You’ll be sitting a lot. Stretchy clothes and soft shoes help.

  • Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the flight.

  • Get up and move. Walk around the plane every few hours if you can.

  • Bring your own snacks and entertainment. Some flights offer plenty, but it's always nice to have your favourites.

Final Thoughts


Yes, the flight from Sydney to Istanbul is long, but thousands of people do it every year — and you can too. Just take some time to compare flights, pick a good layover, and pack smart.

With a bit of planning, you’ll get through it just fine. And once you land in Istanbul, all that travel time will be worth it.