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

Should you visit Istanbul or Galway?

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

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

Galway

Galway is a friendly, cultural, and historical 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 Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Galway?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Galway, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more touristy than Galway and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Istanbul different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Galway 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.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway 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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Istanbul or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Istanbul and Galway.

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.

Galway has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Istanbul or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Istanbul offers plenty to see. 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.

Galway does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Galway?

Istanbul is notable for shopping. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Istanbul or Galway Better for Families?

Istanbul is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway 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.

Galway is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Istanbul or Galway Better for Couples?

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

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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Istanbul or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Galway 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.

Many backpackers visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Istanbul or Galway Better for Students?

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

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

Plenty of students visit Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Galway has some public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Istanbul or Galway a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Galway both are high quality 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.

Galway is a very walkable city. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Galway?

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

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

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 one day exploring.

The city of Galway 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 Galway?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Galway?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Galway 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 Galway?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Galway 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 Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Galway?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

Both Galway 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 Galway for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Galway 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 Galway during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Galway. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway 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 Galway in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Galway. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Galway in the Winter?

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

In January, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Galway. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Galway during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

Galway receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Galway. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Galway in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Galway. 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 Galway because of the activities around the city.

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

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Galway. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Galway. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Galway and Istanbul