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

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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 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. 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

Istanbul
Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
Interlaken
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers


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 Food?

Istanbul
Interlaken

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Interlaken can be difficult as they are each unique 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.

Interlaken has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Families?

Istanbul
Interlaken

Families will find a wider variety of activities in Interlaken than Istanbul.

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!

Istanbul is a family-friendly city. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Interlaken

Istanbul and Interlaken are both fun 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.

Interlaken is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Is Istanbul or Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Interlaken

While Interlaken and Istanbul are both good for backpackers, overall Istanbul is more popular.

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.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Public Transit?

Istanbul
Interlaken

Both Istanbul and Interlaken offer public transit options.

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.

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
Interlaken

Istanbul and Interlaken both are comparable 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.

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

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.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Istanbul is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Interlaken is 2-5 days.


  • How many days in Istanbul or Interlaken? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Interlaken 2-5

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.

Which city is cheaper, Interlaken or Istanbul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $42, while the average daily cost in Interlaken is $184. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Interlaken in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $26
    Interlaken $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $52
    Interlaken $212
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Interlaken

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Interlaken? 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 Interlaken


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 Interlaken Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $2.48
    Interlaken $10
Typical Local Transportation prices in Istanbul

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


  • Ferry
    $0.15
  • Local Bus
    $0.16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • İstanbul Private Airport Transfer: $19
  • İstanbul Airport Transfer: $45
  • istanbul airport transfer-sabiha gokcen airport transfer-vip transfer: $28
  • istanbul airport cheapest vip transfer by private car: $14
  • istanbul airport & sabiha gokcen airport transfer by private car: $30
  • VIP Transfer Services for Airports, Hotels or Other Location: $80
  • VIP Airport Transfer and Shuttle: $62
  • VIP Airport Transfer: $56
  • Turkish Bath in Istanbul with transfer: $199
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Istanbul Old City to Sabiha Gokcen Airport: $57
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Istanbul Old City to Istanbul Airport: $51
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Istanbul Old City to Sabiha Gokcen Airport: $61

Typical Local Transportation prices in Interlaken

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


  • Cable Cars (for 2)
    $65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Interlaken

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

  • From Lausanne: Transfer to Interlaken Village: $130
  • Private Transfer from interlaken City to Lucerne City: $174
  • Private transfer from Interlaken to Zurich Airport: $485
  • Private Transfer from Interlaken to Geneva Airport: $670

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Interlaken?

Prices for flights to both Interlaken 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 $11
    Interlaken $51
Typical Food prices in Istanbul

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


  • Juice
    $0.11
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.03
  • Dessert
    $0.45
  • Pastries
    $0.08

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

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

  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise & Show: $29
  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise Show: $30
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Inc. Dinner and Belly Dance Show with Hotel Transfer: $34
  • Alaturca Ottoman Dramatic Stage Show & Dinner Cruise ( Non - Alcoholic ): $35
  • Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive): $36
  • Bosphorus Dinner Show Cruise With Non Alcoholic Menu ISTANBUL Dinner cruise: $36
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise An Unforgettable Experience in Istanbul: $36
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul: $37
  • Istanbul Cruise&Show with Dinner: $37
  • Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus: $38
  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise & Show: $39
  • Istanbul Dinner Cruise with Sema Ceremony: $40

Typical Food prices in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Tea at Interlaken
    $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $15
    Interlaken $83
Typical Entertainment prices in Istanbul

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


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $1.06
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $1.06
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.53
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $1.58

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • 1 Day - Istanbul Tour: $315
  • 1 Day Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Tour From Istanbul: $300
  • 1 Day Istanbul & Ephesus Tour By Plane - YK230: $419
  • 1 Day Regular Cappadocia Tour by Plane - YK0011: $384
  • 1 Day Tour - Sapanca: $300
  • 1 Night 1 Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul - Including Hot Air Balloon Tour: $496
  • 1 Night 1 Day Cappadocia Travel from Istanbul - Including Hot Air Balloon Tour: $509
  • 1 Night 1 Day Cappadocia Trip from/to Istanbul - Including Hot Air Balloon Tour: $513
  • 1 Night 1 Day Trip from Istanbul to Cappadocia - Including Hot Air Balloon Tour: $490
  • 1 Night 2 Days Cappadocia Trip from/to Istanbul - Including Hot Air Balloon Tour: $521
  • 1 Night 2 Days Ephesus, Kusadasi, Hierapolis & Pamukkale Tour from/to Istanbul: $372
  • 1 Night Cappadocia Trip with Hot Air Balloon Tour: $525

Tours and Activities in Interlaken

For Interlaken, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Lake Thun and Lake Brienz Express Tour from Interlaken: $30
  • High Ropes Adventure Park Admission in Interlaken: $46
  • Trümmelbach Waterfalls Small-Group Tour from Interlaken: $80
  • Aare River Gorge Walk Small-Group Tour from Interlaken: $106
  • Kayak Tour of the Turquoise Lake Brienz: $115
  • Schilthorn Piz Gloria (James Bond Location) Small Group Tour from Interlaken: $159
  • GAILY TOUR in INTERLAKEN - Gay & Lesbian Tour: $187
  • Tandem Paragliding Experience from Interlaken: $196
  • Tandem Paragliding Experience with Transport from Interlaken: $196
  • Self-Guided Tour: Schilthorn Piz Gloria (James Bond world) from Interlaken: $217
  • Aare River Gorge Walk plus Lake Brienz Cruise - Private Tour from Interlaken: $238
  • Aare River Gorge Walk Private Tour from Interlaken: $238

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $3.80
    Interlaken $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Daily Tekirdag Wine Tasting Tour from Istanbul: $427

About these numbers

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.


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 temperature in Istanbul is usually 24°C (74°F) in July, and Interlaken stays 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.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Interlaken 21°C (70°F)

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 are around 16°C (61°F), and Interlaken is 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Interlaken 13°C (56°F)

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. Temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Interlaken stays 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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Interlaken 3°C (37°F)

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 temperature in Istanbul is usually 13°C (55°F) in April, and Interlaken stays 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Interlaken 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Istanbul

Istanbul Interlaken
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)


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Istanbul vs. Interlaken Travel Comparison

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