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

Should you visit Istanbul or Cork?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Cork, 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cork

Cork is a youthful, energetic, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Cork: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Cork?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Cork, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more touristy than Cork and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Cork is popular for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer.

How is Istanbul different from Cork?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cork. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Istanbul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Cork has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

Is Istanbul or Cork Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Istanbul and Cork.

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.

Cork has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Is Istanbul or Cork Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Cork 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.

Cork does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Cork?

Both Istanbul and Cork are high quality 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.

Cork is well-known for its shopping. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Is Istanbul or Cork Better for Families?

Istanbul is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Cork is a family-friendly city. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

Is Istanbul or Cork Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Cork are both high quality 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.

Cork makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Is Istanbul or Cork Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Istanbul or Cork Better for Students?

Istanbul and Cork are both high quality 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 Cork. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Istanbul or Cork a more walkable city?

Istanbul is notable for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cork or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Cork?

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

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

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Cork offers food and shopping. 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 Cork?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Cork?

Istanbul is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Cork 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 Cork?

Istanbul is a historic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Cork 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Cork?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cork. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Cork, 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 Cork?

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 Cork in the Summer?

Both Cork and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cork for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Cork in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Cork fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Cork during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Cork. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cork receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cork in the Autumn?

Both Cork and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cork in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Cork. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Cork averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Cork. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 90 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Cork. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cork receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cork in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Cork. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cork for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Cork. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Cork fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Cork during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cork receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Cork. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cork receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cork in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Cork. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cork because of the activities around the city.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Cork in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cork fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Cork. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 157 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Cork. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cork receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cork and Istanbul