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

Should you visit Istanbul or Linz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Linz, 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 historic, diverse, and beautiful 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Linz

Linz is a historic, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Istanbul and Linz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Linz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Linz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Linz and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Linz is famous for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries.

How is Istanbul different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Istanbul or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

Istanbul offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Istanbul or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Linz?

Both Istanbul and Linz 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.

Linz is well-known for its shopping. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Is Istanbul or Linz Better for Families?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Linz is a family-friendly city. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Istanbul or Linz Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Linz 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.

Linz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

Is Istanbul or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Istanbul or Linz Better for Students?

Istanbul is a well-known place for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

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

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Istanbul or Linz a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Linz both are high quality 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.

Linz is a very walkable city. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Linz or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Linz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Linz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Linz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Linz.

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

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Linz 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Linz?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Linz?

Istanbul is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Linz 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 Linz?

Istanbul is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Linz 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 town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Linz, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Linz?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Linz, 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 Linz?

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 Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Linz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Linz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Linz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Linz during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Linz. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Linz in the Autumn?

Both Linz and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Linz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Linz. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Linz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Linz. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Linz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Linz can be very cold during winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Linz in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Linz fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Linz during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Linz. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Linz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Linz. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Linz because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Linz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Linz averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Linz. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Linz. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Linz and Istanbul