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

Should you visit Istanbul or Imperia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Imperia, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Istanbul is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Istanbul different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul
Imperia

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. 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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Istanbul or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Istanbul or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Imperia

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

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Imperia?

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Istanbul. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Istanbul or Imperia Better for Families?

Istanbul
Imperia

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

Istanbul is known to be 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Imperia Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Istanbul or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Istanbul or Imperia Better for Students?

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is notable for students. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Istanbul or Imperia a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Imperia

Istanbul is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Imperia?

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

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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.


  • How many days in Istanbul or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Istanbul or Imperia?

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 town of Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

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


Five days in Istanbul or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia 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 Imperia is $115. 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 Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $47
    Imperia $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $94
    Imperia $110
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $55
    Imperia $39
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:

  • Princes' Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers: $13
  • Private Transfer from Istanbul Hotels to Istanbul Cruise Port: $19
  • Istanbul City to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)-Departure Private Transfer: $20
  • Airport - Otel Transfer and City Tours: $20
  • Private One-Way New Istanbul Airport Transfer To/From Istanbul: $21
  • Istanbul Hotels to Istanbul Ataturk Airport (ISL) - Departure Private Transfer: $22
  • Istanbul Airport (SAW) to Istanbul - Arrival Private Transfer: $22
  • Istanbul to Istanbul Airport (SAW) - Departure Private Transfer: $22
  • Istanbul Airport Private Transfers: $22
  • Princes' Islands Cruise w/Music, Lunch & Transfer: $24
  • Istanbul Airport VIP/ULTRA VIP Transfer, Free WIFI: $25
  • Private Transfer from Istanbul Hotels to Istanbul Cruise Port: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia $38
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
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $17
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • 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
  • Dinner Cruise Bosphorus with Hotel Transfer: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $29
  • Half Day Sunset Luxury Yacht Dinner Cruise Tour in Istanbul: $29
  • 3 Hour Ottoman Dinner Cruise in Istanbul : $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $79
    Imperia $13
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:

  • App self-guided tours Istanbul with multilingual audioguide: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Tour with Audio Guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • Hagia Sophia Exclusive Digital Audio Guided Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Istanbul Outdoor Escape Game: The Royal Adventure: $7.08
  • Istanbul in a day: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide: $8.06
  • Hippodrome and Blue Mosque Guided Tour: $8.73
  • Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Audio Guide: $9.62
  • The Royal Adventure Highlights Exploration Game: $11

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $15
    Imperia $8.04

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
  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Istanbul : $50
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $80
  • 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: $844


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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Imperia?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Imperia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Imperia. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is cooler than Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Imperia. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Imperia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Imperia averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Imperia during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Imperia. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Imperia. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Istanbul

Istanbul Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)