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

Should you visit Istanbul or Giverny?

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

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

Giverny

Giverny is a peaceful, serene, and inspiring town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food and museums.

Istanbul and Giverny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Giverny?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Giverny are popular destinations, Istanbul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Giverny attracts visitors for its small town charm and 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. Giverny is famous for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet.

How is Istanbul different from Giverny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Giverny 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.

Many visitors head to Giverny specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Giverny 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 Giverny area. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

Is Istanbul or Giverny Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is great for nightlife and partying. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Istanbul or Giverny Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Giverny does not have a historic old town.

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.

Giverny does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Giverny?

Istanbul is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Giverny Better for Families?

Istanbul is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not the most family-friendly destination. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.

Is Istanbul or Giverny Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Giverny are both very good 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.

Giverny makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.

Is Istanbul or Giverny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Giverny 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.

Giverny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.

Is Istanbul or Giverny Better for Students?

Istanbul is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Giverny has a few public transit options. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.

Is Istanbul or Giverny a more walkable city?

Istanbul is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Giverny is a somewhat walkable city. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

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

Should I spend more time in Giverny or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Giverny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Giverny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Giverny 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 Giverny.

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

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Giverny 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 Giverny?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Giverny?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Giverny 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 Giverny?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Giverny 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 Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Giverny, we can see that Giverny 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 Giverny Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Giverny?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 19810 times larger than the population of Giverny. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Giverny, 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 Giverny?

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 Giverny in the Summer?

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

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Giverny. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Giverny. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 241 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Giverny. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Giverny in the Autumn?

Both Giverny 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 Giverny because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Giverny during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Giverny. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Giverny in the Winter?

Both Giverny 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 Giverny this time of year.

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

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Giverny. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 62 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Istanbul or Giverny in the Spring?

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

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

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Giverny. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Giverny and Istanbul