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

Should you visit Istanbul or Bari?

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

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

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Istanbul and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Bari?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Bari. Istanbul is bigger than Bari, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bari is more popular for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Istanbul different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Bari 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 Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Istanbul and Bari.

Istanbul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Bari has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for Beaches?

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

Bari has a beach worth visiting. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Bari?

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

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for Families?

Istanbul and Bari 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, Bari is very family-friendly. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for Couples?

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

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Istanbul or Bari Better for Students?

Istanbul and Bari are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

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

Students come from all over to stay in Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

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

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

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.

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Istanbul or Bari a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Bari both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Bari is a very walkable city. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Bari?

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

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

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The port city of Bari offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Bari?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Bari?

Istanbul is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Bari?

Istanbul is a historic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bari is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Bari, 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 Bari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Bari?

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

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 Bari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bari. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Bari in the Autumn?

Both Bari and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Istanbul is cooler than Bari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bari during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bari. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Bari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Bari averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Bari. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Bari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Bari. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Bari. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Istanbul