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

Should you visit Istanbul or Korcula?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Korcula, 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 beautiful, high-energy, and historic 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Korcula

Korcula is a historic, scenic, and laid back island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Istanbul and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Korcula?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Korcula 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 Korcula attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Istanbul is more touristy than Korcula and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Korcula is famous for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

How is Istanbul different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

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

Istanbul is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Istanbul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Istanbul know how to have a good time. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Korcula is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Korcula has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Korcula is notable for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Korcula. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is renowned for its old town. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Istanbul is one of the most recognized in 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Korcula is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Korcula is a popular spot for hiking. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Korcula?

Istanbul is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Families?

Istanbul and Korcula are both high quality 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, Korcula is very family-friendly. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Korcula are both high quality 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.

Korcula makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Istanbul or Korcula Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

It's common for students to visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

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

Istanbul is renowned for its public transit. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has a great public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Korcula offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Is Istanbul or Korcula a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Korcula. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Korcula. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

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

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 island of Korcula offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Korcula, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Korcula?

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.

Korcula 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 Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a great place to explore. 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 island 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Korcula, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Korcula much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Korcula would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Korcula 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 Istanbul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Istanbul than you might in Korcula.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Istanbul Expensive? and Is Korcula Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Korcula?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 3560 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Korcula. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Korcula for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Korcula averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Korcula. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Korcula. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Korcula in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally cooler than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Korcula. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Istanbul is cooler than Korcula in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Korcula. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Korcula averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Korcula. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Istanbul