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 beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Istanbul travel costs.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic 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. See Brussels travel costs.

Istanbul and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Brussels, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is known for its shopping. Istanbul is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

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.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Istanbul or Brussels?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.


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

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Istanbul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

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. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. 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 is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Istanbul is one of the most recognized in the world. 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 Brussels. 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 the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Brussels?

Istanbul
Brussels

Brussels 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.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

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 Brussels More Beautiful?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Families?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul and Brussels 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, 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 great 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. 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.

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. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Istanbul or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Brussels

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 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 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? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Istanbul
Brussels

Both Istanbul and Brussels offer world-class 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 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.

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.

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

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. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Brussels or Istanbul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $193, while the average daily cost in Brussels is $185. 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 Brussels in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $89
    Brussels $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $178
    Brussels $164
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 $42
    Brussels $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Istanbul Cruise Port(Galataport) Private Transfer Service: $35
  • Private Airport Transfer in Istanbul: $138
  • Saw Sabiha Gokcen Airport Transfers for Old City & Taksim Hotels: $65
  • Airport - Otel Transfer and City Tours: $35
  • Airport Transfer: $61
  • Airport Transfer: $63
  • Airport Transfer Hotel Transfer Istanbul Transfer: $62
  • Airport transfer Istanbul: $57
  • Arrival Private Transfer: New Airport IST to Istanbul in Business Car: $68
  • Comfortable and Reliable Private Istanbul Airport Transfer: $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Istanbul to New Airport IST in Luxury Van: $74
  • Discover Secret Lakes by Private Hiking Tour (w/Lunch, Transfers): $77

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

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


  • Subway Pass
    $5.05
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    $8.99

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Bus Transfer between Charleroi & Zaventem Airport: $21
  • Brussels Charleroi Airport: Bus Transfer from/to Antwerp: $23
  • BRU Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $31
  • Private Airport Transfer to the City: $57
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Brussels from/to airport: $63
  • Arrival Private Transfer Brussels Train Station to Brussels by Luxury Car or Van: $72
  • Brussels Airport(BRU) to Brussels hotels-Arrival Private Transfer: $72
  • Brussels Private Transfer from Brussels city centre to Brussels Airport (BRU): $77
  • Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-7pax: $79
  • Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-3pax: $79
  • Private Departure Transfer from Brussels City to Brussels Airport by luxury car: $82
  • Brussels to Brussels Airport(BRU) - Departure Private Transfer: $93

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 $71
    Brussels $74

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 Folklore Show & Belly Dancers: $32
  • Istanbul Turkish Coffee Cooking and Tasting with Locals at Home: $33
  • İstanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Traditional Turkish Show: $33
  • 3 Hour Ottoman Dinner Cruise in Istanbul : $34
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Live Performance, Folk Dance and DJ: $34
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Entertaintment & Private Table & Wi-Fi: $34
  • Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Show and Private Table: $35
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Hotel Transfer: $36
  • Bosphorus Tour Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show : $37
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Dance Shows with Private Table: $37
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Drinks and Shows: $39
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Turkish Night Show All inclusive: $40

Typical Food Prices in Brussels

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


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    $5.17
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    $5.34
  • Cheese
    $6.29
  • Olives and Snacks
    $7.84
  • Waffle
    $3.37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $31
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $32
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $70
  • Guided Food Tour with Full Meal and Drinks: $107
  • VIP Belgian Beer World tour incl. Lunch/Dinner: $112
  • Brussels Food Tour with Full Meal & Drinks by Do Eat Better: $114
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $133
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $146
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $177

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $47
    Brussels $26

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • Old Town Of Istanbul Orientation - Tip Based Walking Tour: $2.50
  • Hagia Sophia Admission Ticket - Pay on Arrival : $5.73
  • Kadikoy's history, theatres and sweet shops: a self-guided audio tour: $5.99
  • Istanbul's Old Town Through Time: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • The Royal Adventure Quest Experience in Istanbul: $8.31
  • Istanbul Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Bosphorus Boat Tour and Golden Horn Cruise : $10
  • Prince Island Ticket with Audio Guide: $14
  • Sunset Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul Landmarks by Boat: $14
  • Istanbul Balat Toy Museum with Admission Ticket: $14
  • Lunch Cruise in Bosphorus: $15
  • Kucuksu Pavilion Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide: $17

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • Brussels Hidden Delights A Self Guided Epicurean Adventure: $2.74
  • THE MOST COMPLETE TOUR of BRUSSELS! + PDF tour guide: $3.38
  • FREE TOUR OF BRUSSELS⭐️THE MOST COMPLETE⭐+PDF GUIDE: $3.38
  • Brussels Walking Tour with Guide plus PDF: $3.43
  • Tour of Brussels in English (with booking fee) : $3.43
  • Spanish Footprint Tour in Brussels: $3.43
  • Self Guided Tours Brussels With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.43
  • Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Brussels - by Legends: $3.43
  • Walking Tour of the Historic Center with a local guide in Spanish: $3.95
  • Brussels Old City’s Highlights Walking Tour: $4.59
  • Leuven Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $6.15
  • Museum Halle Gate Entry Ticket: $7.91

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $13
    Brussels $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Pub Crawl Istanbul / Rooftop Clubs & Party Bus: $29
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $78
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $201

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
    $6.74

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $18
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $19
  • BXL Pub Crawl Guided Tour: $23
  • micro brewery & distillery tour (incl 2 tastings): $28
  • Beer tasting in a Brussels Micro Brewery and Distillery: $29
  • Brussels Pub Crawl Tour: $29
  • Discovery of the La Senne Brewery: $30
  • beer tasting workshop in a micro brewery: $45
  • Beer Pong in a Micro Brewery and Distillery: $73


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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Brussels?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Brussels, 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 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 daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates 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 average around 16°C (61°F), and Brussels averages at 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. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Brussels fluctuates 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 daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates 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)