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

Should you visit Istanbul or Cagliari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Cagliari, 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 diverse, beautiful, and high-energy 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a laid back, relaxed, and historic 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 Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Cagliari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Cagliari. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cagliari attracts visitors for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches.

How is Istanbul different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Istanbul are world-renowned. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cagliari can be an interesting and educational experience. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are excellent in both Istanbul and Cagliari.

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.

Cagliari has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is notable for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cagliari. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to see the historical old town. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Cagliari?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to go shopping. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for Families?

Istanbul and Cagliari are both excellent 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, Cagliari is very family-friendly. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Cagliari are both excellent 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.

Cagliari makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Istanbul is extremely popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari Better for Students?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Cagliari is popular with students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Istanbul or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Cagliari both are excellent 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.

Cagliari is a very walkable city. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Cagliari?

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

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

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 Cagliari 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 Cagliari?

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.

Cagliari 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cagliari, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Cagliari?

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.

Cagliari is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Cagliari?

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.

Cagliari is a great place to explore. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Cagliari, we can see that Cagliari 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 Cagliari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Cagliari?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Cagliari. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Cagliari, 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 Cagliari?

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 Cagliari in the Summer?

Both Cagliari and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Cagliari averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Cagliari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cagliari. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Cagliari. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cagliari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Cagliari. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year.

In October, Istanbul is generally cooler than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Cagliari during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cagliari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Cagliari. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Istanbul is much colder than Cagliari in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Cagliari. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Cagliari. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cagliari in the Spring?

Both Cagliari and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Cagliari averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Cagliari. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Cagliari during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Cagliari. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Istanbul