A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corinth vs. Istanbul for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Corinth or Istanbul?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corinth or Istanbul, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corinth

Corinth is a ancient, unique, and fascinating archeological site. It's also known for museums.

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.

Corinth and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corinth or Istanbul?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Corinth. Istanbul is bigger than Corinth, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Corinth and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Corinth is well known for its historical ruins and fascinating temples.

How is Corinth different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Corinth 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Corinth. Visitors come to explore the ancient city of Corinth, which is now a significant archeological site. The Apollo Temple is an important landmark on the site. In a separate area you'll find the Acrocorinth, which is the ancient city's acropolis. Also a must-see is the Corinth Canal.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Corinth is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Corinth offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a couple of restaurants where you can grab a quick bite to eat in the area, but most are not convenient.

Is Corinth or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Corinth is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Istanbul has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Corinth. Most people visit the archeological sights and the canal as a day trip from Athens, so nightlife is not part of their itinerary.

Is Corinth or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Corinth does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Istanbul offers plenty to see. 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.

Corinth does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Corinth or Istanbul?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Corinth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Corinth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Corinth or Istanbul Better for Families?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Corinth is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Istanbul. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Corinth. These archeological ruins will have a special draw for those kids who enjoy the Percy Jackson book series. The ruins and corresponding museum tell the story of lives lived millennia ago. For kids with an active imagination, this is a fascinating place to explore.

Is Corinth or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a very popular place for couples. Also, Corinth is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Corinth is a nice destination for couples. An easy day trip from Athens, these archeological ruins are unique and impressive to explore for couples who enjoy history and Greek mythology.

Is Corinth or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Corinth 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.

Corinth is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. Most visitors come as a day trip from Athens. Public transportation options are plentiful so backpackers will find this an easy, independent trip to make.

Is Corinth or Istanbul Better for Students?

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

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Corinth is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Corinth is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Corinth, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and trains that connect Athens and Corinth but confirm that the schedule is convenient for your trip.

Is Corinth or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Corinth is lacking in good options 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.

Corinth is generally not very walkable. Many areas are spread out, so some parts are easily walkable and others are not.

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

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Corinth?

How long in Corinth or Istanbul?

Both Corinth 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 Corinth. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Corinth, and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Corinth. 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 Istanbul than Corinth. 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 Corinth 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.

One day in Corinth or Istanbul?

The archeological site of Corinth offers museums. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. 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 Corinth or Istanbul?

Corinth is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this archeological site makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Corinth, 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 Corinth or Istanbul?

Corinth is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. 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 Corinth or Istanbul?

Corinth is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site 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 The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey.

When comparing the travel costs between Corinth and Istanbul, we can see that Corinth 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 Corinth Expensive? and Is Istanbul Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Corinth or Istanbul?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Corinth. When comparing the sizes of Corinth 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 Corinth 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 Corinth or Istanbul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Corinth as well as Istanbul. The summer months attract visitors to Corinth because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

In the summer, Corinth is a little warmer than Istanbul. Typically, the summer temperatures in Corinth in July average around 27°C (81°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 Corinth this time of the year. In the summer, Corinth often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul. Corinth gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Corinth or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Corinth are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Corinth. Corinth usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during autumn. Corinth gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Corinth or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Corinth during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Corinth for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Should I visit Corinth or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Corinth and Istanbul. Furthermore, most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In Corinth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Corinth usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during spring. Corinth gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Corinth