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

Should you visit Istanbul or Interlaken?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Interlaken, 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 diverse, beautiful, and high-energy 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Istanbul and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Interlaken?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Interlaken are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken is known for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Istanbul is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Interlaken is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes.

How is Istanbul different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Interlaken and Istanbul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Istanbul is not a skiing destination.

Interlaken is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Istanbul is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Istanbul or Interlaken?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Istanbul from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Istanbul is revered around the world. 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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Interlaken?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Families?

Interlaken is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Couples?

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

Interlaken has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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 Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Istanbul. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Students?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Istanbul can get you around easily. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken a more walkable city?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Interlaken?

In either Istanbul or Interlaken, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Interlaken because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-5 days is enough time in Interlaken.

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Istanbul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Interlaken, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Istanbul than Interlaken. 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken?

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 beautiful town of Interlaken offers food and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Interlaken?

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.

Interlaken 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Interlaken?

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.

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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.

Interlaken is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Interlaken?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 2210 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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 Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Interlaken in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Interlaken fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Interlaken, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Interlaken. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Interlaken in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Interlaken. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Interlaken. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Interlaken averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Interlaken. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Interlaken. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Interlaken. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Interlaken. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Interlaken in the Spring?

Both Interlaken and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Interlaken in the spring for the natural beauty.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Interlaken in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Interlaken fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Istanbul