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

Should you visit Istanbul or Brussels?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Brussels, 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 historic, diverse, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


How is Istanbul different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels and Istanbul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Istanbul
Brussels

Both Istanbul and Brussels have interesting 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts.


Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Food?

Istanbul
Brussels

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Brussels can be difficult as they are each unique 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.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. Other popular dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Brussels

Evening events are similar in both Istanbul and Brussels.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Brussels. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul and Brussels both have historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Shopping?

Istanbul
Brussels

Both Istanbul and Brussels are good 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.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.


Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Families?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul and Brussels are both fun destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul and Brussels are both fun 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.

Brussels makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Brussels

Both Istanbul and Brussels are popular 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.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Students?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul and Brussels are both good 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 Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.


Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Public Transit?

Istanbul
Brussels

Both Istanbul and Brussels offer 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.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus and waterbuses.

Is Istanbul or Brussels a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul and Brussels both are comparable 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.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Brussels?

In either Istanbul or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Istanbul is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Brussels is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Istanbul or Brussels? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Brussels 1-5

One day in Istanbul or Brussels?

Istanbul is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The city of Brussels 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 Brussels?

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Brussels 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Istanbul or Brussels?

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

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping 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 city offers something for everyone.

Which city is cheaper, Brussels or Istanbul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $42, while the average daily cost in Brussels is $116. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $26
    Brussels $61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $52
    Brussels $122
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Brussels

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Brussels? 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 Brussels


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 Brussels Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $2.48
    Brussels $14
Typical Local Transportation prices in Istanbul

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


  • Ferry
    $0.15
  • Local Bus
    $0.16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • 2 Ways Istanbul Airport Transfer: $109
  • 2 Ways Istanbul Airport Transfer: $56
  • 2 Ways Sabiha Gokcen Airport Transfer: $56
  • 2-Hour Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Transfers: $500
  • 2m Transfer: $85
  • 4-Day Istanbul City Package including Full-Day Istanbul City Tour plus Airport Transfers: $350
  • 4-Day Wonderful Istanbul Including Accommodation Plus Transfer: $474
  • Air Transfer Lines | Airport Transfer Service: $44
  • Airport Transfer, Hotel Tranfer, Shuttle Service, Taxi Service: $26
  • Airport private transfer to hotel and back: $109
  • Arrival Private Transfers from New Airport IST to Istanbul in Business Car: $123
  • City Center to Istanbul Airport (IST) Departure Transfers: $87

Typical Local Transportation prices in Brussels

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


  • Subway Pass
    $4.80
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    $8.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Private Airport Transfer: from Brussels to Brussels Airport (BRU): $25
  • Private Departure Transfer from Brussels City Center to Brussels Airport (BRU): $32
  • Private Airport Transfer to the City: $36
  • Private Departure Transfer: Brussels Hotel to Brussels Railway Station: $46
  • Private Business Transfer from Brussels Hotel to Brussels Airport (BRU): $49
  • Private Transfer to/from Brussels Airport (BRU): $50
  • Airport (BRU) Private Transfer: $53
  • Private Airport Transfer: Brussels to Charleroi Airport (CRL): $55
  • Private Airport Transfer: Brussels to Brussels Airport (BRU): $56
  • Departure Private Transfer from Brussels to Brussels Airport in Business Car: $57
  • Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-7pax: $60
  • Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-3pax: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Brussels?

Prices for flights to both Brussels 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 $11
    Brussels $33
Typical Food prices in Istanbul

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


  • Juice
    $0.11
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.03
  • Dessert
    $0.45
  • Pastries
    $0.08

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

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

  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise & Show: $29
  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise Show: $30
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Inc. Dinner and Belly Dance Show with Hotel Transfer: $34
  • Alaturca Ottoman Dramatic Stage Show & Dinner Cruise ( Non - Alcoholic ): $35
  • Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive): $36
  • Bosphorus Dinner Show Cruise With Non Alcoholic Menu ISTANBUL Dinner cruise: $36
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise An Unforgettable Experience in Istanbul: $36
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul: $37
  • Istanbul Cruise&Show with Dinner: $37
  • Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus: $38
  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise & Show: $39
  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise with Sema Ceremony: $40

Typical Food prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    $4.90
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    $5.06
  • Cheese
    $5.97
  • Olives and Snacks
    $7.44
  • Waffle
    $3.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

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

  • Classic Belgian cooking class and lunch: $79
  • Your Private Tailored Belgian Food Tour with a Local: $93
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $112
  • Cooking Lesson and Gourmet Belgian-Inspired Meal with a Local in Brussels: $115
  • Private Brussels Food Tour (walking lunch or dinner): $373

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $15
    Brussels $20
Typical Entertainment prices in Istanbul

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


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $1.06
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $1.06
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.53
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $1.58

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • Just Hagia Sophia Tour /Skip The Lines: $8.71
  • VR Dervish Experience: $10
  • Museum of Illusions Istanbul Ticket: $11
  • Piri Self-Guided Audio Tour: Istanbul, Historical Peninsula: $11
  • Old City Insider Walking Tour: $11
  • Bosphorus Cruise with Audio App: $11
  • Basilica Cistern VIP Tickets: $12
  • Vip Ticket For Hagi̇a Sophi̇a: $12
  • Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque&Hippodrome Guided Tours Everyday /No que / No line!: $12
  • Istanbul LEGOLAND Discovery Center Entrance Ticket: $14
  • SEA LIFE Istanbul Entry Ticket: $14
  • Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Brussels

Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brussels Autoworld Museum Entrance Ticket: $15
  • Pick Up from your Hotel in Brussels to Departure point Brussels City Tours: $22
  • Beer Tour: $27
  • Brussels 2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience: $29
  • Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Bike Tour: $34
  • Private Tour with a Local: $40
  • Kanal and Molenbeek Runnning Tour: $44
  • Running Tour of the Historical Center: $44
  • The Best Of Brussels Walking Tour: $54
  • Belgian Chocolate Tasting Tour: $62
  • Private Tour w/ Locals – Highlights & Hidden Gems: $66
  • Artistic Bruges on a Private Tour with a local: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $3.80
    Brussels $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Daily Tekirdag Wine Tasting Tour from Istanbul: $427

Typical Alcohol prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $11
  • Beer
    $6.39

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl: $14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Brussels, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Istanbul.


When is the best time to visit Istanbul or Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

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

Istanbul is a little warmer than Brussels in the summer. The temperature in Istanbul is usually 24°C (74°F) in July, and Brussels stays around 18°C (65°F).

In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Brussels. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Brussels 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Brussels. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October are around 16°C (61°F), and Brussels is about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Brussels. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Brussels 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels 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 Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Brussels. Temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Brussels stays around 3°C (38°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Brussels. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Brussels 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels 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. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Brussels in the spring. The temperature in Istanbul is usually 13°C (55°F) in April, and Brussels stays around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Brussels 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Brussels and Istanbul

Istanbul Brussels
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in)


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Istanbul vs. Brussels Travel Comparison

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