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

Should you visit Istanbul or Chartres?

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

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

Chartres

Chartres is a historic, grand, and spectacular town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food and museums.

Istanbul and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Chartres?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Chartres are popular destinations, Istanbul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chartres attracts visitors for its small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Chartres is famous for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Istanbul different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Istanbul or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Istanbul for the nightlife scene. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Istanbul or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Chartres does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Istanbul can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Chartres?

Istanbul is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Chartres Better for Families?

Istanbul is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Istanbul is very family-friendly. 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Istanbul or Chartres Better for Couples?

Istanbul is great for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is a good city for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Istanbul or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is Istanbul or Chartres Better for Students?

Istanbul is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Istanbul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Chartres offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Is Istanbul or Chartres a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Chartres both are very good 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.

Chartres is a very walkable city. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

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

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 town of Chartres offers museums and food. 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 Chartres?

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.

Chartres is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chartres, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Chartres?

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.

Chartres 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 Chartres?

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.

Chartres 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 town 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Chartres?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 250 times larger than the population of Chartres. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Chartres, 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Chartres. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Chartres. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Chartres because of the small town atmosphere.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Chartres. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chartres in the winter. Istanbul is a little warmer than Chartres in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Chartres. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Chartres. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Chartres averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chartres during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chartres. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chartres and Istanbul