A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Kiel for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antalya or Kiel?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Kiel? 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 vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kiel

Kiel is a maritime, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Kiel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Kiel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Kiel, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Kiel is known for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Kiel and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Kiel is popular for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival.

How is Antalya different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kiel 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 Kiel?

Antalya is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

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

Antalya is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Antalya. 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.

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Antalya is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Music?

Antalya is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Kiel is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Kiel is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Resorts?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Kiel is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. 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.

Kiel is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kiel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Kiel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Beaches?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Many people head to Kiel to enjoy the beach. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is well known for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Hiking?

Antalya is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Kiel is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Kiel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Kiel?

Antalya is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Kiel has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Families?

Antalya is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Couples?

Antalya is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Kiel is a good vacation spot for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antalya is a great vacation spot to visit for backpackers. 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.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Antalya or Kiel Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Kiel. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya is well known for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Antalya has some very good public transit options. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Antalya or Kiel a more walkable city?

Antalya and Kiel are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Kiel is somewhat walkable. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Kiel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Kiel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Kiel. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-3 days is enough time in Kiel.

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

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Kiel. 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 Antalya than Kiel 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Kiel?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Kiel, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antalya or Kiel?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Kiel, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kiel has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Kiel?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Kiel is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Kiel?

The luxurious vacation spot of Antalya offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kiel. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kiel. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

When comparing the travel costs between Antalya and Kiel, we can see that Kiel is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Kiel?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kiel. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Kiel, 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 Kiel?

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 Kiel in the Summer?

Both Kiel and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kiel this time of year.

In July, Antalya is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Kiel, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Kiel. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Kiel in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Kiel. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kiel for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Antalya is much warmer than Kiel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Kiel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kiel. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Kiel in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Kiel. Many travelers come to Antalya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kiel in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kiel can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Antalya is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Kiel averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 39 hours of full sun.

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Kiel. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Kiel in the Spring?

Both Kiel and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antalya in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kiel for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Antalya is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Kiel and Antalya