A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Kitzbuhel for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Istanbul or Kitzbuhel?

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

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

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and world-class ski resort. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Istanbul and Kitzbuhel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Kitzbuhel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Kitzbuhel are popular destinations, Istanbul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Kitzbuhel attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Kitzbuhel and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Kitzbuhel is famous for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities.

How is Istanbul different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel is an amazing ski resort to visit for snow skiing. However, Istanbul is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Kitzbuhel is among the best in the world. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Istanbul is not a skiing destination.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination 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.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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.

Dining out in Kitzbuhel is an experience not to be missed. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Istanbul and Kitzbuhel.

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.

Kitzbuhel has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its historic old town charm.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel is an amazing ski resort to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kitzbuhel draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Kitzbuhel?

Istanbul is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

Istanbul and Kitzbuhel are both very good destinations for the whole family.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel Better for Students?

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

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its public transit.

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.

Kitzbuhel has a few public transit options. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Is Istanbul or Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Kitzbuhel both are very good 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable city. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Kitzbuhel?

Both Istanbul and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Istanbul has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Istanbul than Kitzbuhel. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

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

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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 Kitzbuhel?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Kitzbuhel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Kitzbuhel?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Kitzbuhel is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kitzbuhel, 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 Kitzbuhel?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kitzbuhel has to offer. This ski resort 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 Budget Tours to Austria, and The Best Luxury Tours to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Kitzbuhel?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 1270 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Kitzbuhel, 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.