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

Should you visit Istanbul or Auxerre?

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

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

Auxerre

Auxerre is a authentic, under-rated, and undiscovered town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food and museums.

Istanbul and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Auxerre?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Auxerre, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Istanbul is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is more popular for its small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Auxerre and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Auxerre is well known for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Istanbul different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Istanbul or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Istanbul for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Istanbul or Auxerre Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Auxerre?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is great for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Auxerre Better for Families?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Istanbul or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is great for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Istanbul or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Istanbul or Auxerre Better for Students?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Auxerre is not popular with students.

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

Auxerre is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.


Is Istanbul or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Auxerre

Istanbul is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Auxerre. 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 Auxerre. 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 Auxerre 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 Istanbul or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Istanbul or Auxerre?

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 town of Auxerre offers museums and food. 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 Auxerre?

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.

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


Five days in Istanbul or Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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 Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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 town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Istanbul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $126, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is $121. 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 Istanbul and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $47
    Auxerre $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $94
    Auxerre $110
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Auxerre? 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 Istanbul


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Istanbul Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $55
    Auxerre $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

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


  • Ferry
    $0.09
  • Local Bus
    $0.09

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Private Bosphorus Tour on Luxury Yacht w/transfer: $749
  • From 2-Day Cappadocia Trip w/ Flight and Transfers: $466
  • From Pamukkale Day Tour With Flights and Transfers: $321
  • Istanbul Airport S-Class Premium Luxury Sedan Transfer: $287
  • Hagia Sophia, Topkapi & Mosque Tour with Transfer: $286
  • Private Guided Istanbul Luxury Tour (Tickets and Transfers): $282
  • Troy and Gallipoli Day Guided Tour with Transfer: $280
  • Private Transfer to Bursa Uludag Hotels from Sabiha Gokcen airport: $245
  • Istanbul Dolmabahçe Palace Private Tour with Transfers: $225
  • 3-Day Tours & Transfer Package: $225
  • Full-Day Old City Tour with Lunch and Transfers: $210
  • Layover Private Guided Istanbul City Tour with Transfers: $192

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Istanbul 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
    Istanbul $31
    Auxerre $37
Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

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


  • Juice
    $0.06
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.02
  • Dessert
    $0.26
  • Pastries
    $0.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

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

  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show from Istanbul: $16
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $17
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $21
  • Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show: $25
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $26
  • Bosphorus Boat Cruise with Dinner & Entertainment: $27
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks and Shows: $28
  • Dinner Cruise Bosphorus with Hotel Transfer: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $29
  • Half Day Sunset Luxury Yacht Dinner Cruise Tour in Istanbul: $29
  • 3 Hour Ottoman Dinner Cruise in Istanbul : $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $79
    Auxerre $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

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


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $0.62
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $0.62
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.31
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $0.93

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • 4 Hours Private Highlights Tour Of Istanbul: $273
  • All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $164
  • Full Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour: $42
  • Green Bursa ~ Uludag Mountain, private Tour;Solo ;Groups: $60
  • Hippodrome and Blue Mosque Guided Tour: $8.73
  • Istanbul Half Day City Tour (Ottoman Relics): $55
  • City Highlights Tour w/Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque: $35
  • Must - See Istanbul Stops 1: Half Day Morning Tour: $139
  • 1 Day Private Istanbul Guided Tour: $68
  • 1-Day Best of Istanbul Private Tour with the Best Local Guides: $250
  • 2 Continents Tour incl. Beylerbeyi Palace [full-day]: $218
  • 2 Days Private Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Istanbul: $432

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

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

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $15
    Auxerre $6.58

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
  • Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out: $27
  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Istanbul : $50
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $80
  • 2-Day Wine Tasting Tour along the Thracian Wine Route: $180
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $245
  • Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430
  • Luxury Wine Tasting on a Private Yacht: $844

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

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

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Auxerre?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Istanbul or Auxerre in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Auxerre. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Auxerre. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Auxerre. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Auxerre in the Autumn?

Both Auxerre and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Auxerre in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Auxerre in the Winter?

Both Auxerre and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auxerre for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Auxerre. In the winter, Istanbul is much warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Auxerre averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Auxerre. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Auxerre in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Auxerre. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Auxerre in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Auxerre. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Istanbul

Istanbul Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)