How Far is Turkey from Jerusalem? Exploring the Distance Between These Historic Sites

Turkey and Jerusalem are two destinations with deep cultural and historical significance. For centuries, they have been important centers of religion, politics and trade. But just how far apart are these iconic locations? Let’s measure and explore the distance from Turkey to Jerusalem.

An Overview of Turkey and Jerusalem’s Geography

Turkey is a nation spanning across southwestern Asia and southeastern Europe. The largest city and cultural capital is Istanbul located in the northwestern part of the country.

Jerusalem is a city situated within Israel on the southeastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea. It is considered a holy city and significant to three major Abrahamic religions – Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Turkey shares no land border with Israel. The two countries are separated by the Mediterranean as well as Syria and Lebanon. So getting from Turkey to Jerusalem requires crossing a sea plus overland travel.

Measuring the Mileage from Turkey to Jerusalem

The distance from Turkey to Jerusalem can vary slightly depending on your exact starting and ending points, But here are some approximate mileage measurements

• From Istanbul, Turkey to Jerusalem, Israel: roughly 1,579 miles or 2,540 km

• From Ankara, Turkey (capital) to Jerusalem: around 1,624 miles or 2,614 km

• From Izmir, Turkey to Jerusalem: about 1,340 miles or 2,155 km

• From Turkey’s southern border to Jerusalem: approximately 625 miles or 1,006 km

So if traveling directly between the two, you’re looking at a journey of 1,300 miles at minimum up to 1,600 miles or more. That’s like traveling across the entire continental United States from coast to coast!

A Look at Travel Time from Turkey to Jerusalem

In addition to mileage, the travel time is also substantial between these destinations:

• By plane from Istanbul to Jerusalem: about 3 hours 15 minutes of direct flight time

• By car from Istanbul: driving nonstop would take around 33 hours

• By high speed train from Istanbul: around 27 hours with transfers

• By bus from Istanbul: roughly 2 days and 5 hours including stops

Traveling overland involves crossing through Syria and Jordan by car, bus or train. This adds significant border crossings and layovers to the trip.

Flying is the fastest way to cover the distance directly. But flights between Turkey and Israel are somewhat limited. Connecting through another hub city may be required.

Major Cities and Sites Along the Route

When traveling between Turkey and Jerusalem overland, the journey passes through several important destinations:

• Aleppo, Syria – Historic city along the Silk Road trade route. Home to landmarks like the Citadel of Aleppo and Great Mosque.

• Damascus, Syria – The capital and second largest city in Syria featuring an old city with Roman and Arabic architecture.

• Amman, Jordan – Jordan’s capital and largest city situated on seven hills or “jebels”. Home to ancient ruins and a modern downtown.

• The Dead Sea – Landlocked salt lake bordering Jordan and Israel, renowned for its high salt content and mineral-rich black mud.

• Bethlehem, West Bank – Birthplace of Jesus according to Christian tradition. Site of the Church of the Nativity.

Experiencing the Culture and Cuisine En Route

A road trip from Turkey to Jerusalem offers the chance to enjoy regional food, music, attractions and more along the way:

• Try dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, kebabs, Turkish coffee and baklava.

• Visit Roman ruins, Crusader castles, medieval citadels and ancient mosques.

• Shop the bazaars and souks for handwoven textiles, copper goods, spices and sweets.

• Listen to traditional Turkish and Arabic music featuring intricate rhythms.

• Relax in Turkish baths and hammams – historic public bathing houses.

• Float effortlessly in the mineral-rich, salty waters of the Dead Sea.

The Bottom Line

The overland distance from Turkey to Jerusalem spans between 1,300 to 1,600 miles depending on the route. Driving or training nonstop takes about 2-3 days. But there’s much to see and do in Syria, Jordan and Israel along the way. Flying is the quickest option at just 3 hours between Istanbul and Jerusalem. No matter your chosen path, this journey links the histories and cultures of Asia, Europe and the Middle East.