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

Should you visit Istanbul or Almeria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Almeria, 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. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Almeria

Almeria is a breathtaking, pristine, and cultural region. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Istanbul and Almeria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Almeria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Almeria. Istanbul is bigger than Almeria, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Almeria is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Almeria and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Almeria is well known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity.

How is Istanbul different from Almeria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. 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.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Almeria can be difficult as they are each world-class in their own way.

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.

Many restaurants in Almeria have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Istanbul know how to have a good time. 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 Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Resorts?

Almeria is an amazing region to visit for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Almeria offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Beaches?

Almeria is an amazing region to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Almeria are among the best in the world. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Hiking?

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

Almeria is a popular spot for hiking. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Almeria?

Istanbul is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Families?

Istanbul and Almeria are both great 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, Almeria is very family-friendly. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Almeria are both great 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.

Almeria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Almeria is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Is Istanbul or Almeria Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. However, Almeria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Almeria is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

Is Istanbul or Almeria a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal 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.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable city. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Almeria or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Almeria?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Almeria. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Almeria. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Almeria.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Almeria. 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 Almeria. 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 Almeria 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 Almeria?

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.

The beautiful region of Almeria offers food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Almeria?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Almeria?

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.

Almeria 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 Almeria?

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.

Almeria 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 region 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 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Almeria, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria 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 Istanbul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Istanbul than you might in Almeria.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Almeria?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Almeria. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Almeria, 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 Almeria?

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 Almeria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Almeria. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Almeria in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Almeria. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria 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 Almeria during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 343 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Almeria. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Almeria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Almeria. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Istanbul is cooler than Almeria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Almeria fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Almeria. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 220 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Almeria. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Almeria in the Winter?

Both Almeria and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Almeria because of the cuisine.

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Almeria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Almeria averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Almeria during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 186 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Almeria. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Almeria in the Spring?

Both Almeria and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Almeria this time of year.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Almeria. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Almeria. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 235 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Almeria. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Almeria and Istanbul