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

Should you visit Istanbul or Canberra?

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

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

Canberra

Canberra is a under-rated, cultural, and diverse 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 Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Canberra?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Canberra. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Canberra attracts visitors for its hiking. Istanbul is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Canberra is famous for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Istanbul different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra 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.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Istanbul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Canberra has hiking trails worth exploring. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Canberra?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra 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 Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for Families?

Istanbul and Canberra are both very good 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, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for Couples?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Istanbul or Canberra Better for Students?

Istanbul and Canberra are both very 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 Canberra. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

Istanbul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Istanbul can take you anywhere. 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 Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Istanbul or Canberra a more walkable city?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Canberra. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

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

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 Canberra 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 Canberra?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Canberra?

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.

Canberra 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 Canberra?

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.

Canberra is a great place to explore. 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 Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Canberra, we can see that Canberra 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. Even though Istanbul is in Europe and Canberra is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Canberra?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Canberra, 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 Canberra?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Istanbul has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Istanbul or Canberra in the Summer?

Both Canberra and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Canberra. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Canberra averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Canberrain January. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Canberra. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Canberra because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Canberrain April. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Canberrain April. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Canberra in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Canberra. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

Istanbul is much colder than Canberra in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in July.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Canberrain July. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Canberra for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Istanbul is cooler than Canberra. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Canberra averages at about 15°C (60°F)in October.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Canberrain October. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Istanbul