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

Should you visit Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Dusseldorf, 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, 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 Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Dusseldorf, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany.

How is Istanbul different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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

Istanbul is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Istanbul know how to have a good time. 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 Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Istanbul has a world-famous historical 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

Istanbul is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Istanbul and Dusseldorf 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, Dusseldorf is very family-friendly. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is very popular for backpackers. Also, Dusseldorf 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Many students visit Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Both Istanbul and Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Is Istanbul or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable city. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

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

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

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

The city of Dusseldorf offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

Istanbul, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf?

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dusseldorf 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 from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Istanbul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Istanbul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Istanbul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf than you might in Istanbul.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Dusseldorf?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Dusseldorf. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Dusseldorf. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Dusseldorf in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Dusseldorf. 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. Also, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Dusseldorf. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Dusseldorf. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

Both Dusseldorf 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. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

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

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dusseldorf. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Istanbul