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

Should you visit Istanbul or Madrid?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Madrid, 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 high-energy, historic, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Istanbul travel costs.

Madrid

Madrid is a authentic, cultural, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See Madrid travel costs.

Istanbul and Madrid: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Madrid?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Madrid, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Madrid is known for its music and shopping. Istanbul is more touristy than Madrid and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Madrid is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing.

How is Istanbul different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Madrid 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.

Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Madrid can be difficult as they are each first-rate 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 Madrid have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Istanbul and Madrid.

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.

Madrid has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for Music?

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

Madrid is a world class music destination. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is renowned for its historic old town. However, Madrid does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Istanbul is one of the most recognized in 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.

Madrid does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Madrid?

Madrid 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.

Madrid is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

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 Madrid More Beautiful?

Istanbul is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.

Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Madrid is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for Families?

Istanbul and Madrid are both high quality 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, Madrid is very family-friendly. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Madrid 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.

Madrid makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Madrid 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.

Madrid is a great city to visit for backpackers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

Is Istanbul or Madrid Better for Students?

Madrid 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.

Madrid is a great destination for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

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

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

Both Istanbul and Madrid offer first-rate 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.

Madrid has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

Is Istanbul or Madrid a more walkable city?

Madrid 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 Madrid on foot. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

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 Madrid Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Madrid or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Madrid?

In either Istanbul or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Madrid 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 Madrid.

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

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

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 city of Madrid offers museums and nightlife. 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 Madrid?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Madrid?

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.

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

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.

Madrid 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Madrid, 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 Madrid Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Madrid?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Madrid. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Madrid, 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.