Which place is cheaper, Leipzig or Istanbul?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Leipzig, 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 is a high-energy, historic, and diverse 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 museums, nightlife, and food.
Leipzig is a historic, growing, and dynamic city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.
Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Leipzig, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig is known for its quaint atmosphere. Istanbul is more touristy than Leipzig and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Leipzig is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Leipzig and Istanbul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Istanbul is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
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.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.
Istanbul is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.
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. 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.
Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.
Istanbul is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
Many people head to Istanbul for the nightlife scene. 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.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.
Istanbul is terrific for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.
Istanbul has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.
Leipzig does not have a historic old town.
Both Istanbul and Leipzig are superb 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.
Leipzig is well-known for its shopping. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.
Istanbul is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Istanbul is a very family-friendly destination. 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.
Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.
Istanbul is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.
Istanbul is a great city if you're traveling as 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.
Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.
Istanbul is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.
Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.
Istanbul is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.
Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.
Leipzig is not popular with students.
Istanbul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.
The thorough and effecient public transit system of Istanbul can take you anywhere. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.
Public transit in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.
Istanbul is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.
Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.
For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Leipzig Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Leipzig. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Leipzig. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Leipzig.
Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Leipzig. 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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig 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.
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 city of Leipzig offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
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.
Leipzig 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Leipzig, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
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.
Leipzig 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.
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.
Leipzig is a great place to explore. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $126, while the average daily cost in Leipzig is $178. 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 destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Leipzig in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Leipzig? 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.
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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:
Also for Leipzig, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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.
Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.
For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Leipzig, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive?.
Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Leipzig. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Leipzig, 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.
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.
The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Leipzig. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year.
Istanbul is a little warmer than Leipzig in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.
Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Leipzig. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Leipzig and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Leipzig for the shopping scene.
In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Leipzig. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Leipzig averages at about 11°C (52°F).
Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both Leipzig and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Leipzig in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Leipzig can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).
In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.
Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Leipzig. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Leipzig. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
Istanbul is a little warmer than Leipzig in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).
Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Leipzig. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Istanbul | Leipzig | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 6°C (43°F) | 99 mm (3.9 in) | 1°C (33°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) |
Feb | 6°C (44°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) | 2°C (35°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
Mar | 8°C (47°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) | 5°C (42°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) |
Apr | 13°C (55°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
May | 17°C (63°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) | 14°C (58°F) | 54 mm (2.1 in) |
Jun | 21°C (71°F) | 21 mm (0.8 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) |
Jul | 24°C (74°F) | 19 mm (0.7 in) | 19°C (67°F) | 52 mm (2.1 in) |
Aug | 24°C (74°F) | 26 mm (1 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) |
Sep | 20°C (69°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Oct | 16°C (61°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) |
Nov | 12°C (54°F) | 89 mm (3.5 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Dec | 9°C (47°F) | 122 mm (4.8 in) | 2°C (36°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |