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

Should you visit Istanbul or Beijing?

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

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

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Beijing?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Beijing. Istanbul is bigger than Beijing, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is well known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Beijing is well known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine.

How is Istanbul different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Beijing have first-rate landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Beijing can be difficult as they are each first-rate 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 Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Is Istanbul or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Istanbul and Beijing.

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.

Beijing has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Istanbul or Beijing Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Beijing?

Both Istanbul and Beijing are high quality shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Beijing is well-known for its shopping. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Istanbul or Beijing Better for Families?

Istanbul is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Istanbul is known to be 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Istanbul or Beijing Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Istanbul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Istanbul or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing 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.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Istanbul or Beijing Better for Students?

Istanbul and Beijing are both high quality 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 Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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

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

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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Is Istanbul or Beijing a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city 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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Beijing?

Both Istanbul and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Istanbul has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Istanbul than Beijing. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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 city of Beijing 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 Beijing?

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.

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Five days in Istanbul or Beijing?

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.

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

A week in Istanbul or Beijing?

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.

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Beijing, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Istanbul is in Europe and Beijing is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Beijing?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Beijing. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Beijing, 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 Beijing?

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 Beijing in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Beijing. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally cooler than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Beijing during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Beijing. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Beijing in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Beijing. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Beijing in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Beijing. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Beijing in the Winter?

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

Beijing can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Istanbul is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Beijing averages at about -4°C (26°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Beijing. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Beijing in the Spring?

Both Beijing and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Beijing and Istanbul