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

Should you visit Istanbul or Lyon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Lyon, 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 Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Istanbul travel costs.

Lyon

Lyon is a authentic, historic, and beautiful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty in Lyon as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lyon travel costs.

Istanbul and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Lyon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Lyon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its big city activities, while Lyon attracts visitors for its impressive beauty and quaint atmosphere. Istanbul is more touristy than Lyon and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

How is Istanbul different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Lyon have amazing 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 Lyon are world-renowned. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Lyon can be difficult as they are each amazing 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 Lyon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Is Istanbul or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Istanbul and Lyon.

Istanbul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Lyon has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Istanbul or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Lyon both have amazing 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.

Lyon has a world-famous historical area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Lyon?

Both Istanbul and Lyon 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.

Lyon is well-known for its shopping. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Istanbul or Lyon More Beautiful?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lyon as well. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.

The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Is Istanbul or Lyon Better for Families?

Istanbul and Lyon 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, Lyon is very family-friendly. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Istanbul or Lyon Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Lyon 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.

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Istanbul or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 budget travelers and backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Istanbul or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Lyon is a great destination for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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

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

Both Istanbul and Lyon offer amazing 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.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Is Istanbul or Lyon a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Lyon both are superb 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.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Lyon?

In either Istanbul or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Lyon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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 city of Lyon 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 Lyon?

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.

Lyon 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 Lyon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Lyon?

Istanbul is a diverse 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.

Lyon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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.

Lyon is a great place to explore. 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 Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Lyon?

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

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 Lyon in the Summer?

Both Lyon and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Lyon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Lyon. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lyon in the Autumn?

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

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lyon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Lyon. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Lyon. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Lyon. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lyon. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Istanbul