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

Should you visit Istanbul or Florence?

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

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

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Florence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Florence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Florence attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Istanbul is famous for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Florence is famous for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens.

How is Istanbul different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul
Florence

Both Istanbul and Florence have amazing landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.


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

Istanbul
Florence

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Florence can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Istanbul or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Florence

Istanbul is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Istanbul has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Istanbul or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Florence

Istanbul and Florence both have amazing historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Florence has a world-famous historical area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.


Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Florence?

Istanbul
Florence

Both Istanbul and Florence are superb 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.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Istanbul or Florence Better for Families?

Istanbul
Florence

Istanbul is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Istanbul or Florence Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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.


Is Istanbul or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Florence

Both Istanbul and Florence are amazing destinations for backpackers.

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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is Istanbul or Florence Better for Students?

Istanbul
Florence

Florence is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul
Florence

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Istanbul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.


Is Istanbul or Florence a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Florence

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

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Florence?

Both Istanbul and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Florence. 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 Florence than Istanbul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Istanbul or Florence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Florence 2-7

One day in Istanbul or Florence?

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 beautiful city of Florence 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 Florence?

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.

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


Five days in Istanbul or Florence?

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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Florence or Istanbul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $126, while the average daily cost in Florence is $167. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Florence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $47
    Florence $94
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $94
    Florence $188
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Florence

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Florence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Istanbul


Hotels in Florence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Istanbul Hotel Prices and Florence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $55
    Florence $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Ferry
    $0.09
  • Local Bus
    $0.09

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Private Bosphorus Tour on Luxury Yacht w/transfer: $746
  • From Pamukkale Day Tour With Flights and Transfers: $320
  • Private Full Day Walking Tour in Istanbul with Transfer: $293
  • Hagia Sophia, Topkapi & Mosque Tour with Transfer: $286
  • Istanbul Airport S-Class Premium Luxury Sedan Transfer: $285
  • Private Guided Istanbul Luxury Tour (Tickets and Transfers): $282
  • Troy and Gallipoli Day Guided Tour with Transfer: $280
  • Istanbul Dolmabahçe Palace Private Tour with Transfers: $225
  • 3-Day Tours & Transfer Package: $224
  • Istanbul Airport Transfer: Istanbul to New Airport IST in Luxury Car: $223
  • Istanbul Airport Transfer: Istanbul to Sabiha Airport SAW in Luxury Car: $223
  • Istanbul Airport to Sabiha Airport Private Transfer or Vice Versa (1-10pax): $210

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Florence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:


  • Taxi Ride Within City
    $8.67
  • Taxi from Airport
    $27
  • In City Parking (Full Day)
    $32
  • Bus Pass (Full Day)
    $5.42
  • Bus From Airport
    $5.42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florence

Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer to/from Rome with Wi-Fi and Sockets: $5.30
  • From The Mall Firenze Shuttle Transfer: $15
  • Shared Bus Transfer to/from Pisa Airport: $16
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Florence Train Station: $35
  • Florence hotels to Florence Airport (FLR) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Florence Airport (FLR) to Florence hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
  • Florence Airport Private Departure Transfer: $48
  • Private Transfer from SMN Train Station to Florence: $51
  • Private Departure Transfer to Florence SMN Train Station : $51
  • From La Spezia: Round-Trip Bus Transfer to Florence: $52
  • Private Florence Airport to Hotel Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer from your Hotel in Florence to the Airport: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Florence?

Prices for flights to both Florence and Istanbul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Istanbul $31
    Florence $39
Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Juice
    $0.06
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.02
  • Dessert
    $0.26
  • Pastries
    $0.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.

  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show from Istanbul: $16
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Tour With Turkish Night Show: $21
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $21
  • Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show: $25
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $26
  • Bosphorus Boat Cruise with Dinner & Entertainment: $27
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks and Shows: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $28
  • 3 Hour Ottoman Dinner Cruise in Istanbul : $29

Typical Food Prices in Florence

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:


  • Panini Sandwich
    $7.04
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Florence

For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Walking Food Tour at Sunset with Tastings: $23
  • Florence Street Food Tour: Market & City Center: $25
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Virtual Live Cooking Class What Do You Have in Your Pantry: $35
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Bruschetta & Tiramisù: $35
  • Virtual Italian Meatballs Cooking Class, Live from Tuscany: $37
  • Street Food Tour with Local Expert Guide: $40
  • Street Food Tour and Sightseeing with Local Expert Guide in 2.5 hours : $41
  • Florence Food Tour: Home-Made Pasta, Truffle, Cantucci, Olive Oil, Gelato: $41
  • Florence Street Food Tour and sightseeing with Central Market: $46
  • Food Tour in Santo Spirito: $47
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $79
    Florence $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $0.62
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $0.62
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.31
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $0.93

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:

  • 4 Hours Private Highlights Tour Of Istanbul: $272
  • All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $163
  • Dolmabace Palace, Bosphorus Boat Tour , Eyüp Sultan Mosque Tour: $150
  • Full Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour: $42
  • Istanbul Customized Daily Tour: $200
  • City Highlights Tour w/Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque: $35
  • Must - See Istanbul Stops 1: Half Day Morning Tour: $138
  • 1 Day Private Istanbul Guided Tour: $68
  • 1 Tour: Istanbul Highlights Street Food & Hidden Pearls: $201
  • 1-Day Best of Istanbul Private Tour with the Best Local Guides: $250
  • 1-Day Private Istanbul Layover Tour : $220
  • 2 Continents Tour incl. Beylerbeyi Palace [full-day]: $218

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florence

For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Admission to Uffizi
    $12
  • Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi
    $4.33
  • Firenze Card (for Two)
    $108
  • Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two)
    $22
  • Giotto's Tower Entrance Fee
    $6.50
  • Boboli Gardens Entrance Fee
    $7.58

Tours and Activities in Florence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.

  • The Best tour in Renaissance and Medici Tales: $0.02
  • The Best tour in Renaissance & Medici Tales - guided by a STORYTELLER: $0.02
  • Renaissance and Medici Tales Guided Walking Tour: $2.66
  • Dark Mysteries and Legends Guided Walking Tour: $2.66
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Florence Walking Tour: $3.25
  • Private Tour to the Laboratory of Artistic Ceramics in Tuscany: $3.26
  • Sunset Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Smartphone self guided Tour: $4.25
  • Florence Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.50
  • The Towers of Florence Self-Guided Tour: $4.58
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Florence: $5.43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $15
    Florence $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Istanbul Pub Crawl Big Nightout . Rooftop parties,party Bus & Nightlife: $22
  • Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out: $27
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Istanbul : $45
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $83
  • 2-Day Wine Tasting Tour along the Thracian Wine Route: $180
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $245
  • Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430
  • Luxury Wine Tasting on a Private Yacht: $841

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florence

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:


  • Glass of Chianti
    $4.55
  • Bottle of Wine
    $8.12

Sample the Local Flavors in Florence

Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
  • Winery tour and wine tasting of organic Chianti wines and extra virgin oil: $22
  • Wine Tasting Activity at Chianti Rufina: $23
  • 3 Types Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $29
  • From Florence to Chianti Rufina: Wine Tasting Experience: $32
  • Classic Wine Tasting in Montalcino: $33
  • Discover Artimino wine tasting, a few steps from Florence: $33
  • Italy Private Wine Tasting Experience : $33
  • Three Types of Tuscany Wine Tasting with Local Appetizers: $37
  • Wine Tasting and Paring Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Wine Tasting and Pairing Class Guided Tour in Florence: $42
  • Chianti Wine Tour: Tuscan Reds : $42


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Florence, we can see that Florence 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence 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 Florence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Florence?

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

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Florence. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Florence averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Florence. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Florence. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Florence 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Florence. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Florence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Istanbul is cooler than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Florence. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Florence 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Florence. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Istanbul is cooler than Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Florence. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Florence 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Florence and Istanbul

Istanbul Florence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 24°C (75°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)