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

Should you visit Istanbul or Marseille?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Marseille, 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.

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Istanbul and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Marseille?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Marseille. Istanbul is bigger than Marseille, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Marseille is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Istanbul is more touristy than Marseille and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Marseille is well known for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Istanbul different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Istanbul has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Marseille 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 Marseille have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille 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.

Marseille has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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 Marseille Better for Beaches?

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

Marseille has a beach worth visiting. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Marseille 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.

Marseille has a world-famous historical area. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Marseille?

Both Istanbul and Marseille 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.

Marseille is well-known for its shopping. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Istanbul does not offer Christmas markets.

Marseille has Christmas markets worth visiting. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Istanbul does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for Families?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Istanbul. 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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Marseille 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.

Marseille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Istanbul, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Istanbul or Marseille Better for Students?

Istanbul and Marseille are both superb 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 Marseille. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Istanbul or Marseille a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Marseille 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.

Marseille is a very walkable city. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Marseille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Marseille. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

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

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Marseille offers nightlife and food. 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 Marseille?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Marseille?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Marseille 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 Marseille?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Marseille 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 Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Marseille, we can see that Marseille 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 Marseille would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marseille 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 Marseille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Marseille?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Marseille. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Marseille, 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 Marseille?

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 Marseille in the Summer?

Both Marseille and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Marseille. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Marseille. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Marseille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Marseille. 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. Also, many travelers come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Marseille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marseille this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Marseille. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Marseille. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Marseille in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Istanbul is cooler than Marseille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Marseille averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Marseille. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Marseille in the Spring?

Both Marseille and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Marseille. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Marseille. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Istanbul