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

Should you visit Istanbul or Berlin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Berlin, 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. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Berlin

Berlin is a cultural, artsy, and creative city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Istanbul and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Berlin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Berlin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Berlin attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and shopping. Istanbul is more touristy than Berlin and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Berlin is famous for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history.

How is Istanbul different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Berlin have amazing 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 Berlin are world-renowned. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Berlin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for Music?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Berlin is a world class music destination. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Berlin?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Berlin is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for Families?

Istanbul and Berlin are both superb 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, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Istanbul and Berlin are amazing destinations for backpackers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Berlin is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Both Istanbul and Berlin offer amazing public transit options.

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.

Berlin has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Is Istanbul or Berlin a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Berlin?

Both Istanbul and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-7 days is enough time in Berlin.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Berlin. 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 Berlin. 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 Berlin than Istanbul 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 Berlin.

One day in Istanbul or Berlin?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 one day exploring.

The city of Berlin offers museums and nightlife. 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 Berlin?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Berlin 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 Berlin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Berlin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, 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 Berlin?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Berlin 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 Berlin 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Berlin?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Berlin. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Berlin, 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 Berlin?

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 Berlin in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Berlin. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Berlin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Berlin averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Berlin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Istanbul or Berlin in the Autumn?

Both Berlin and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berlin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Berlin. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Berlin in the Winter?

Both Berlin and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berlin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Berlin can get quite cold in the winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Berlin in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Berlin fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Berlin. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Berlin in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Berlin. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Berlin for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Berlin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Berlin averages at about 9°C (47°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Berlin. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Istanbul