A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Lillehammer for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Istanbul or Lillehammer?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Lillehammer, 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. 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a sporty, natural, and adventure-filled city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Istanbul and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Lillehammer?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Lillehammer are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Lillehammer is popular for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Istanbul different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is notable for snow skiing. However, Istanbul is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Istanbul is not a skiing destination.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Istanbul is revered around 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.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

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

Lillehammer is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Lillehammer?

Istanbul is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Istanbul and Lillehammer are both superb 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, Lillehammer is very family-friendly. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Lillehammer are both superb 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.

Lillehammer makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Istanbul can get you around easily. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Istanbul or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Istanbul is well known for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

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

Istanbul is a historic city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Lillehammer offers museums 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 Lillehammer?

Istanbul is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Lillehammer 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lillehammer, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Lillehammer?

Istanbul is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer?

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Lillehammer 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 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Lillehammer, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Lillehammer much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lillehammer would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Lillehammer?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 590 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Lillehammer, 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.