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

Should you visit Istanbul or Kyoto?

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

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

Kyoto

Kyoto is a historic, cultural, and fascinating city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Kyoto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Kyoto. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Kyoto attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Kyoto and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Istanbul different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Kyoto have first-rate landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kyoto are world-renowned. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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

Istanbul is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Kyoto 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.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Istanbul or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Istanbul or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Kyoto both have first-rate historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Kyoto has a world-famous historical area. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Kyoto?

Both Istanbul and Kyoto are high quality shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Kyoto is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Istanbul or Kyoto Better for Families?

Istanbul and Kyoto 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, Kyoto is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Istanbul or Kyoto Better for Couples?

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

Kyoto has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kyoto 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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Kyoto Better for Students?

Istanbul and Kyoto are both high quality destinations for students and younger travelers.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

Istanbul is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kyoto 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Istanbul or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Kyoto on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Kyoto?

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

Couples should spend more time in Kyoto than Istanbul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kyoto that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Kyoto 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 Kyoto?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Kyoto offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kyoto is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kyoto, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Kyoto?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Kyoto?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Kyoto, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Istanbul is in Europe and Kyoto is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Kyoto?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

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 Kyoto in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Istanbul is cooler than Kyoto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Kyoto averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Kyoto. 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 Kyoto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Kyoto. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Kyoto in the Winter?

Both Kyoto 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 Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can be very cold during winter. Istanbul is a little warmer than Kyoto in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Kyoto during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Kyoto. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto 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 Kyoto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is cooler than Kyoto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Kyoto averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Kyoto. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Istanbul