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

Should you visit Istanbul or Lisbon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Lisbon, 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 diverse, beautiful, and high-energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Istanbul and Lisbon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Lisbon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Lisbon. Istanbul is bigger than Lisbon, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music.

How is Istanbul different from Lisbon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Lisbon have fantastic 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 Lisbon are world-renowned. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Lisbon can be difficult as they are each fantastic in their own way.

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.

Many restaurants in Lisbon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is a world class music destination. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Lisbon both have fantastic 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.

Lisbon has a world-famous historical area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Lisbon?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lisbon is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Families?

Istanbul and Lisbon are both very good 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, Lisbon is very family-friendly. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Lisbon are both very good 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.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Istanbul and Lisbon are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Lisbon is extremely popular for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon Better for Students?

Istanbul and Lisbon are both very good 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 Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

Both Istanbul and Lisbon offer fantastic public transit options.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Lisbon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Is Istanbul or Lisbon a more walkable city?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Lisbon?

Both Istanbul and Lisbon have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lisbon than Istanbul. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Lisbon than Istanbul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lisbon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Istanbul 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 Lisbon.

One day in Istanbul or Lisbon?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Lisbon offers museums and nightlife. 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 Lisbon?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lisbon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Lisbon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lisbon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisbon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Lisbon?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Lisbon, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Lisbon?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Lisbon, 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 Lisbon?

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.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lisbon in the Summer?

Both Lisbon and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisbon. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 352 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Lisbon. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lisbon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Lisbon. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is cooler than Lisbon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Lisbon fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lisbon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Lisbon. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year.

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Lisbon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Lisbon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Lisbon. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisbon receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. Istanbul usually gets less rain in January than Lisbon. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lisbon in the Spring?

Both Lisbon and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Lisbon. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Lisbon fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Lisbon during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Lisbon receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Lisbon. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lisbon receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lisbon and Istanbul