A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Istanbul for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

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Should you visit Athens or Istanbul?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Istanbul. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a high-energy, historic, and diverse 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Athens
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Istanbul
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Athens or Istanbul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Athens. Istanbul is bigger than Athens, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Athens is more popular for its nightlife. Istanbul is more touristy than Athens and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy.

How is Athens different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens
Istanbul

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Istanbul and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. 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.


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

Athens
Istanbul

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Istanbul can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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.

Is Athens or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Athens
Istanbul

Athens is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Athens has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Athens or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Athens
Istanbul

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Athens and Istanbul.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Istanbul can be explored in its historical center. 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Istanbul?

Athens
Istanbul

Istanbul is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Istanbul. 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Istanbul Better for Families?

Athens
Istanbul

Both Athens and Istanbul are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Athens
Istanbul

Istanbul is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Istanbul is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.


Is Athens or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
Istanbul

For backpackers, both Athens and Istanbul are world-class places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Is Athens or Istanbul Better for Students?

Athens
Istanbul

For students, both Athens and Istanbul are great places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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

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

Athens
Istanbul

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Istanbul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Public transit in Athens is fairly effecient and thorough. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.


Is Athens or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Athens
Istanbul

Athens and Istanbul are great when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Athens?

How long in Athens or Istanbul?

Both Athens and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Istanbul has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Istanbul than Athens. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Athens 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 Athens or Istanbul? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    Istanbul 3-7

One day in Athens or Istanbul?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Istanbul. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Istanbul?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Istanbul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Athens or Istanbul?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Istanbul?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high-energy big city of Istanbul. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Which place is cheaper, Istanbul or Athens?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in Istanbul is €44. 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 Athens and Istanbul in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens €63
    Istanbul €25
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens €126
    Istanbul €50
Compare Hotels in Athens and Istanbul

Looking for a hotel in Athens 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 Athens


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: Athens Hotel Prices and Istanbul Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens €27
    Istanbul €3.02
Typical Local Transportation prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    €6.40
  • Metro
    €1.50
  • Metro
    €2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    €8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    €35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Argos: $14
  • One way Private Transfer Athens City Center to / from Piraeus Port: $19
  • Mercedes Private Transfer Athens - Piraeus: $21
  • Private Transfer from Piraeus Port to Athens City Center: $21
  • Private Transfer from Athens City Center to Piraeus Port: $21
  • Private Transfer from Piraeus Port to Athens City: $22
  • Private Transfer from Athens City to Piraeus Port: $22
  • Private Transfer from Athens City to Piraeus Port: $22
  • Private transfer between Athens hotels and Piraeus Port: $22
  • Piraeus Port: Private One-Way Transfer to Athens City Center: $23
  • From Athens Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Rafina Port: $23
  • Athens Private Transfer: Piraeus Cruise Port to Central Athens : $24

Typical Local Transportation prices in Istanbul

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


  • Ferry
    €0.10
  • Local Bus
    €0.10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Private Helicopter Transfer from IGA Istanbul Airport to Sabiha Gokcen Airport : $3,382
  • Istanbul 5-Day City Package with Hotel, City Tours and Airport Transfers: $1,624
  • Transfer From Kusadasi to/from Istanbul : $704
  • Traditional Luxury Hamam Experience with one way Transfer included: $680
  • 2-Hour Private Luxury Yacht Cruise on Bosphorus with Transfers: $675
  • Transfer From Istanbul to Bodrum: $673
  • Transfer From Istanbul to Izmir: $568
  • 4-Day Istanbul City Package including Full-Day Istanbul City Tour plus Airport Transfers: $490
  • 4-Day Wonderful Istanbul Including Accommodation Plus Transfer: $474
  • Luxury Boat Tour in Bosphorus with Hotel Transfers: $417
  • Istanbul Private 2 hours Bosphorus Yacht Cruise + Hotel Transfers: $379
  • Gallipoli Day Trip from Istanbul with Return Transfer with Lunch Included: $375

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Istanbul?

Prices for flights to both Istanbul and Athens 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
    Athens €37
    Istanbul €14
Typical Food prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    €3.00
  • Souvlaki
    €2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $23
  • Greek Meatballs Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Guided Greek Cooking Class with Dinner & Wine: $42
  • Greek cooking crash course : $45
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $48
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $49
  • Athens Small-Group Food Tour: $53
  • Sights and Food Tour on an Electric Bicycle: $55
  • Greek Food Tour for Health and Wellness with a Full Lunch: $56
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60

Typical Food prices in Istanbul

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


  • Juice
    €0.07
  • Turkish Delight
    €0.02
  • Dessert
    €0.30
  • Pastries
    €0.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

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

  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show: $19
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise, Drinks & Turkish Night: $21
  • Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show: $22
  • Bosphorus Boat Cruise with Dinner & Entertainment: $22
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Folklore Show & Belly Dancers: $25
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise with All inclusive Dinner and Belly-Dancer Show : $27
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Folklore Show & Belly Dancers: $27
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $27
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $28
  • Dinner Cruise Bosphorus with Hotel Transfer: $28
  • Turkish Night Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks: $29
  • 3 Hour Ottoman Dinner Cruise in Istanbul : $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens €36
    Istanbul €15

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Hadrian's Library Skip-the-Line Ticket: $4.33
  • Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $5.33
  • Audio Tour Walk discovering Plaka: $5.33
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Athens: $5.40
  • A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus Skip-the-Line Ticket: $5.95
  • Roman Agora of Athens Skip-the-Line Ticket: $5.95
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Athens: $6.00
  • Ancient Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.24
  • Self-guided Virtual Tour of Ancient Agora: The Highlights: $6.48
  • Self guided Audio Tour of Athens National Garden (no ticket): $6.48

Typical Entertainment prices in Istanbul

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


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    €0.69
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    €0.69
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    €0.35
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    €1.04

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • 2 Days Private Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul: $649
  • 4 Hours Private Highlights Tour Of Istanbul: $271
  • 6-Day Private Guided Tour in Istanbul and Cappadocia: $1,400
  • 9 Days Turkey Tour Package: $1,500
  • All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $173
  • Bosphorus Cruise And Asia Minor Tour: $220
  • Dolmabace Palace, Bosphorus Boat Tour , Eyüp Sultan Mosque Tour: $150
  • Full Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour: $44
  • Green Bursa ~ Uludag Mountain, private Tour;Solo ;Groups: $51
  • Hagia Sophia Private Tour : $100
  • Half Day Golden Horn Land Tour via Public Ferry: $26
  • Highlights of Cappadocia with Mehmet ( Private Tour ): $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens €23
    Istanbul €3.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Polykala Distillery showroom. A125 years of history along with liqueur tasting.: $15
  • Athens Pub Crawling: $17
  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • The Original Athens Pub Crawl - Athens Drunk Tour: $20
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Wine Tasting: $34
  • Athens Wine Tasting: $35
  • 1 Hour Private Four Greek Wine Tasting and Food Pairing in Athens: $35
  • Athens Speakeasy & Alternative Bar Crawl: Discover Hidden Gems: $38
  • Wine Tasting and Nightlife Guided Tour with Cocktail: $42
  • Noble Greeks Acropolis Wine Tasting with Private Sommelier: $42
  • Organic and Vegan Indigenous Wine Tasting Private Experience: $43

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Istanbul Pub Crawl Big Nightout . Rooftop parties,party Bus & Nightlife: $22
  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $27
  • #1 Rated Istanbul Party Pub Crawl w Party Bus/Sultanahmet&Taksim: $27
  • Drunk TourIST - Istanbul Pub Crawl: $27
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out: $32
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $244
  • Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Istanbul : $275
  • Full-Day Wine Tour from Istanbul: $345
  • Daily Tekirdag Wine Tasting Tour from Istanbul: $430
  • Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430
  • Istanbul Private and Guided Food and Wine Tasting tour : $450

How are these travel costs calculated?

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Istanbul, we can see that Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Istanbul.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Istanbul?

Istanbul is bigger, and its population is about 15.3 times larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the population of Athens vs. 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 and the activities that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Athens 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 Athens or Istanbul in the Summer?

Both Istanbul and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Istanbul. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Istanbul averages at about 24°C (74°F).

In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Istanbul. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F)

Should I visit Athens or Istanbul in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Istanbul. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally a little warmer than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Athens or Istanbul in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Istanbul. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

Athens is much warmer than Istanbul in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Istanbul fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Istanbul. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Athens or Istanbul in the Spring?

Both Istanbul and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is a little warmer than Istanbul. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Istanbul averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Athens

Athens Istanbul
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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