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

Should you visit Istanbul or Alicante?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Alicante, 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.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Alicante

Alicante is a vibrant, cultural, and colorful city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Istanbul and Alicante: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Alicante?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Alicante. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Alicante attracts visitors for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Alicante and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Alicante is famous for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants.

How is Istanbul different from Alicante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alicante can be an interesting and educational experience. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Alicante has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for Beaches?

Alicante is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its old town. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Istanbul has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Alicante has an old town worth visiting. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Alicante?

Istanbul is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Alicante has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for Families?

Istanbul and Alicante are both excellent destinations for 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Alicante is very family-friendly. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Alicante are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Alicante makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Istanbul. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Is Istanbul or Alicante Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

It's common for students to visit Alicante. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its public transit. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Istanbul can take you anywhere. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Alicante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

Is Istanbul or Alicante a more walkable city?

Istanbul is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Alicante is a somewhat walkable city. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alicante or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Alicante?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Alicante. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alicante.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Alicante 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 Istanbul or Alicante?

Istanbul 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.

The city of Alicante offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Alicante?

Istanbul 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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Alicante?

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

Alicante 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.

A week in Istanbul or Alicante?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Alicante 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 city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Alicante?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Alicante. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Alicante, 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 Istanbul or Alicante?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Istanbul or Alicante in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Alicante. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Alicante because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Alicante. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Alicante averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alicante this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Alicante. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Alicante in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Alicante. 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. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Alicante this time of year.

In October, Istanbul is generally cooler than Alicante. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alicante. In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Alicante. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 225 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Alicante. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Alicante in the Winter?

Both Alicante and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alicante for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Istanbul is much colder than Alicante in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Alicante fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Alicante during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 178 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Alicante. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Alicante in the Spring?

Both Alicante and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Alicante in the spring for the beaches.

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

In Alicante, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Alicante. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 243 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Alicante. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Alicante and Istanbul