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

Should you visit Istanbul or Mainz?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Mainz, 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. 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Mainz

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

Istanbul and Mainz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Mainz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Mainz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more touristy than Mainz and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Mainz is popular for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares.

How is Istanbul different from Mainz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Mainz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mainz. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

Is Istanbul or Mainz Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Istanbul has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Istanbul or Mainz Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its historic old town. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Istanbul has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mainz. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Mainz?

Istanbul is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Istanbul. 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.

Mainz offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Is Istanbul or Mainz Better for Families?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Mainz doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.

Is Istanbul or Mainz Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Mainz 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.

Mainz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

Is Istanbul or Mainz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Mainz. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Is Istanbul or Mainz Better for Students?

Istanbul and Mainz are both high quality 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 Mainz. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

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

Istanbul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Istanbul can take you anywhere. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Public transit in Mainz can get you to some places easily. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby town.

Is Istanbul or Mainz a more walkable city?

Mainz is an amazing town 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 Mainz on foot. The town is easily explored on foot.

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 Mainz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mainz or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Mainz?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Mainz. 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 Mainz.

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

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful town of Mainz 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 Mainz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Mainz 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mainz, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Mainz?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Mainz 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 Mainz?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Mainz 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 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Mainz, we can see that Mainz is more expensive. And not only is Istanbul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Istanbul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Istanbul 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 Mainz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mainz than you might in Istanbul.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Mainz?

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

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 Mainz in the Summer?

Both Mainz and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mainz for the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Mainz in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Mainz fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Mainz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Mainz. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mainz receives 225 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Mainz. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Mainz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Mainz. 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 Mainz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Mainz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Mainz averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Mainz during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Mainz receives 103 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Mainz. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Mainz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Mainz. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Mainz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Mainz can be very cold during winter. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Mainz. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Mainz fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Mainz. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mainz receives 41 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Mainz. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Mainz in the Spring?

Both Mainz and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mainz because of the natural beauty.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Mainz in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Mainz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Mainz during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Mainz receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Mainz. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Mainz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Mainz and Istanbul