A Travel Price Comparison for Turkey Antalya vs. Istanbul for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Antalya or Istanbul?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Antalya or Istanbul? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a relaxing, luxurious, and historic vacation spot. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse, beautiful, and high-energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque


Is there more to do in Antalya or Istanbul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Antalya. Istanbul is bigger than Antalya, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Antalya is more popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Antalya is well known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Istanbul is well known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque.

How is Antalya different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Istanbul and Antalya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Istanbul?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Istanbul has many famous sights for visitors. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.


Is the Food Better in Antalya or Istanbul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Istanbul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Antalya
Istanbul

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Istanbul.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Music?

Antalya
Istanbul

Antalya is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Antalya active and fun. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.


Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Resorts?

Antalya
Istanbul

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Antalya offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya
Istanbul

Antalya is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Beaches?

Antalya
Istanbul

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Antalya are among the best in the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.


Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Hiking?

Antalya
Istanbul

Antalya is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Istanbul?

Antalya
Istanbul

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for shopping. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Antalya is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.


Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Families?

Antalya
Istanbul

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Istanbul.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Antalya
Istanbul

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Istanbul make for a very good place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit Istanbul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Istanbul, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.


Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Students?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Istanbul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Istanbul Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Antalya. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Is Antalya or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Antalya
Istanbul

Istanbul is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Istanbul is a very walkable destination. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Istanbul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Istanbul?

Both Antalya and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Antalya. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Antalya. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Istanbul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Istanbul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Antalya if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Istanbul.


  • How many days in Antalya or Istanbul? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antalya 2-5 
    Istanbul 3-7

One day in Antalya or Istanbul?

The beautiful vacation spot of Antalya offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Istanbul?

Antalya is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this vacation spot makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Antalya or Istanbul?

Antalya is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antalya, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Antalya or Istanbul?

Antalya is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This vacation spot offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Turkey, and The Best Adventure Tours to Turkey.


Which place is cheaper, Istanbul or Antalya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antalya is $148, while the average daily cost in Istanbul is $127. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Antalya and Istanbul in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antalya $55
    Istanbul $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antalya $110
    Istanbul $96
Compare Hotels in Antalya and Istanbul

Looking for a hotel in Antalya or Istanbul? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Antalya


Hotels in Istanbul


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antalya Hotel Prices and Istanbul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antalya $111
    Istanbul $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

Also for Antalya, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Land of Legends Transfer and Boat Parade Show: $9.77
  • From Land of Legends Night Show with Transfer: $11
  • The Land Of Legends Night Show with Transfers: $13
  • Antalya Airport - Antalya City Hotels Private Transfers (Lara, Kundu, Old Town): $15
  • Side: Whitewater Rafting Adventure with Lunch and Transfer: $15
  • The Land Of Legends Theme Park Round-Trip Transfer: $16
  • Antalya Ariport (AYT) to Antalya hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $17
  • Antalya to Antalya Ariport (AYT) - Departure Private Transfer: $17
  • Antalya Ariport (AYT) to Belek hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $19
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Antalya hotel - Arrival Private Transfer: $19
  • Antalya to Antalya Ariport (AYT) - Departure Private Transfer: $19
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Antalya APT-HTL (AYT): $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Ferry
    $0.09
  • Local Bus
    $0.09

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • İstanbul: Morning Yacht Cruise W/ Asia Side Stop & Transfer: $51
  • İstanbul: Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht W/Transfer: $51
  • İstanbul: Afternoon Luxury Yacht Cruise with Transfer: $51
  • İstanbul airport private transfers: $45
  • İstanbul Vip Airport Transfer : $50
  • İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport Transfer (SAW) To Istanbul Hotel: $61
  • İstanbul New Airport Transfer : $88
  • İstanbul Airports Transfer Services: $47
  • İstanbul Airport Transfer : Your reliable & Stress-Free ride: $55
  • VIP Transfer from Hotel, Airbnb To Istanbul Airport: $60
  • VIP Transfer from Hotel to Airport in Istanbul: $28
  • VIP Daily Transfer from the Istanbul Airport to Istanbul City: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Antalya or Istanbul?

Prices for flights to both Istanbul and Antalya change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Antalya $26
    Istanbul $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Traditional Turkish Tastes at Antalya Food Tour: $47
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $88
  • Pamukkale tour w. Entrance, Lunch, Dinner & Transfer from Antalya: $96

Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Juice
    $0.06
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.02
  • Dessert
    $0.27
  • Pastries
    $0.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.

  • Bosphorus Sunset Cruise & Dinner or Snack option: $14
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $22
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $25
  • Turkish Night on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $26
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $26
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise with All inclusive Dinner and Belly-Dancer Show : $27
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks and Shows: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $29
  • İstanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Traditional Turkish Show: $30
  • Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Show and Private Table: $30
  • Turkish Meze Cooking for Beginners in Istanbul: $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antalya $46
    Istanbul $80

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Antalya Highlights Escape Game and Tour: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Bazaar Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $6.00
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.80
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt And Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.96
  • Antalya Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • White Water Rafting Tour from Antalya: $9.59
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Full-Day Private Rafting Adventure in Karabük Türkiye: $11
  • Spa and Skin Care Experience with Massage and Drink: $14

Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $0.62
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $0.62
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.31
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $0.94

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:

  • All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $166
  • Bosphorus Cruise And Asia Minor Tour: $220
  • Bosphorus Morning or Sunset Guided Cruise Tour: $25
  • Full Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour: $44
  • Green Bursa ~ Uludag Mountain, private Tour;Solo ;Groups: $60
  • Istanbul City Tour Full Day (ASIA AND EUROPE) and Bosphorus Tour: $133
  • 1 Day Private Guided Highlights of Istanbul Tour: $165
  • 1 or 2 Day Private Istanbul Guided Tour For Cruisers: $60
  • 1,2 or 3 DAY: Private Guided Istanbul Tour from CRUISE SHIP or HOTEL: $75
  • 1-Day Best of Istanbul Private Tour with the Best Local Guides: $250
  • 1-Day Private Istanbul Layover Tour : $220
  • 2 Continents Tour incl. Beylerbeyi Palace [full-day]: $221

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antalya $21
    Istanbul $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • #1 Rated Istanbul Party Pub Crawl w Party Bus/Sultanahmet&Taksim: $28
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out: $33
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $84
  • 2-Day Wine Tasting Tour along the Thracian Wine Route: $180
  • Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430
  • Luxury Wine Tasting on a Private Yacht: $857


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Istanbul, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. And not only is Istanbul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Istanbul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Istanbul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya than you might in Istanbul.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Antalya Expensive? and Is Istanbul Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Antalya or Istanbul?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Antalya. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Istanbul, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Antalya or Istanbul?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Istanbul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Istanbul. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Antalya is a little warmer than Istanbul. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antalya in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Istanbul averages at about 24°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Istanbul. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antalya 28°C (83°F) 
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antalya in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Antalya is generally a little warmer than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 21°C (69°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Istanbul. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antalya 21°C (69°F) 
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antalya is much warmer than Istanbul in the winter. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Istanbul fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Istanbul. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antalya 11°C (51°F) 
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Antalya or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Istanbul. The spring months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

In the spring, Antalya is a little warmer than Istanbul. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antalya in April average around 16°C (62°F), and Istanbul averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Istanbul. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antalya 16°C (62°F) 
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Antalya

Antalya Istanbul
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in) 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in) 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)