Which city is cheaper, Munich or Istanbul?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Munich for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers
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Should you visit Istanbul or Munich?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Munich, 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 beautiful, historic, and diverse 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Munich
Munich is a multicultural, economically thriving, and bustling 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.
How is Istanbul different from Munich?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Museums and Historical Sights?
Both Istanbul and Munich have interesting 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.
With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Food?
Picking the best between Istanbul and Munich can be difficult as they are each unique in their own way.
Known for it's food 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.
Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Nightlife?
Evening events are similar in both Istanbul and Munich.
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.
Munich is a world class party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Shopping?
Both Istanbul and Munich are good 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.
Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Families?
Istanbul and Munich are both fun destinations for the whole family.
Istanbul is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks.
Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Couples?
Istanbul and Munich are both fun 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.
Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Both Istanbul and Munich are popular destinations for backpackers.
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.
Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Students?
Istanbul and Munich are both 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.
Munich is a great destination for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.
Is Istanbul or Munich better for Public Transit?
Both Istanbul and Munich offer 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.
Munich has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.
Is Istanbul or Munich a more walkable city?
Istanbul and Munich both are comparable 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.
Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.
Istanbul and Munich: Pros and Cons
Istanbul
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
Munich
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
Should I spend more time in Munich or Istanbul?
How long in Istanbul or Munich?
In either Istanbul or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Munich because of the overall number of sights and activities.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Istanbul is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Munich is 2-5 days.
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How many days in Istanbul or Munich? Ideal Length of StayIstanbul 3-7Munich 2-5
One day in Istanbul or Munich?
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 Munich 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 Munich?
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.
Munich 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 Munich, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area.
Five days in Istanbul or Munich?
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.
Munich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Munich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire area has lots to do.
A week in Istanbul or Munich?
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.
Munich 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.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayIstanbul $48Munich $121
The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $48, while the average daily cost in Munich is $121. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Munich in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personIstanbul $30Munich $72
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomIstanbul $60Munich $144
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Istanbul $2.81Munich $16
Typical Local Transportation prices in Istanbul
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:
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Ferry$0.17
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Local Bus$0.18
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:
- 2 Ways Istanbul Airport Transfer: $109
- 2 Ways Istanbul Airport Transfer: $56
- 2 Ways Sabiha Gokcen Airport Transfer: $56
- 2-Hour Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Transfers: $500
- 2m Transfer: $85
- 4-Day Istanbul City Package including Full-Day Istanbul City Tour plus Airport Transfers: $350
- 4-Day Wonderful Istanbul Including Accommodation Plus Transfer: $474
- Air Transfer Lines | Airport Transfer Service: $44
- Airport Transfer, Hotel Tranfer, Shuttle Service, Taxi Service: $26
- Airport private transfer to hotel and back: $109
- Arrival Private Transfers from New Airport IST to Istanbul in Business Car: $123
- City Center to Istanbul Airport (IST) Departure Transfers: $87
Typical Local Transportation prices in Munich
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Munich:
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Single Zone Trip on Subway$2.40
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Inner District Subway Day Pass$5.42
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City transport day ticket$12
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:
- Ultra - Munich Private Airport Transfer from City Centre to Munich Airport MUC: $9.41
- Airport Transfer by Bus: $12
- Private Airport Transfer: from Munich to Munich Airport (MUC): $47
- Munich to Munich Airport (MUC) - Departure Private Van Transfer: $47
- Graz: Private Transfer to or from Munich Airport: $53
- Private Business Transfer from Munich City Center to Munich Airport (MUC): $60
- Munich City Departure Private Transfer to Munich Train Station in Business Car: $65
- Munich City Departure Private Transfer to Munich Central Station in Luxury Van: $71
- Private Departure Transfer: Munich City Center to MUC Munich Airport: $76
- Munich to Munich Airport (MUC) - Departure Private Car Transfer: $81
- Private Airport Transfer to or from the City Center: $81
- Private Departure Transfer from Munich City Hotels to Munich Airport MUC: $82
Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Munich?
Prices for flights to both Munich and Istanbul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayIstanbul $12Munich $23
Typical Food prices in Istanbul
Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:
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Juice$0.12
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Turkish Delight$0.04
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Dessert$0.51
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Pastries$0.09
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.
- Istanbul Dinner Cruise & Show: $29
- Istanbul Dinner Cruise Show: $30
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Inc. Dinner and Belly Dance Show with Hotel Transfer: $34
- Alaturca Ottoman Dramatic Stage Show & Dinner Cruise ( Non - Alcoholic ): $35
- Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive): $36
- Bosphorus Dinner Show Cruise With Non Alcoholic Menu ISTANBUL Dinner cruise: $36
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise An Unforgettable Experience in Istanbul: $36
- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Night Show from Istanbul: $37
- Istanbul Cruise&Show with Dinner: $37
- Dinner Cruise on the Bosphorus: $38
- Istanbul Dinner Cruise & Show: $39
- Istanbul Dinner Cruise with Sema Ceremony: $40
Typical Food prices in Munich
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Munich:
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Bratwurst$5.21
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Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)$2.03
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Munich.
- Viktualienmarkt 2-Hour Gourmet Food Tour: Munich: $40
- 3-Hour Food Tour Through Haidhausen: $44
- Munich Traditional Bavarian Culture, Beer And Food Tour Including Traditional Bavarian Dress: $200
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Istanbul $18Munich $24
Typical Entertainment prices in Istanbul
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:
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Bosphurus Boat (for 2)$1.19
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Yerebatan Cistern for Two$1.19
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Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two$0.60
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Hagia Sofia entrance$1.79
Tours and Activities in Istanbul
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:
- Just Hagia Sophia Tour /Skip The Lines: $8.71
- VR Dervish Experience: $10
- Museum of Illusions Istanbul Ticket: $11
- Piri Self-Guided Audio Tour: Istanbul, Historical Peninsula: $11
- Old City Insider Walking Tour: $11
- Bosphorus Cruise with Audio App: $11
- Basilica Cistern VIP Tickets: $12
- Vip Ticket For Hagi̇a Sophi̇a: $12
- Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque&Hippodrome Guided Tours Everyday /No que / No line!: $12
- Istanbul LEGOLAND Discovery Center Entrance Ticket: $14
- SEA LIFE Istanbul Entry Ticket: $14
- Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour: $14
Typical Entertainment prices in Munich
Here are a few typical costs in Munich for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Schack Gallery Entrance$4.17
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Munich Zoo Entrance$9.39
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Pub Crawl Munich Tour$15
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Neuschwanstein Castle (2)$25
Tours and Activities in Munich
Here are a few actual costs in Munich for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Haunted City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.64
- Old Town Walking Tour in Spanish: $16
- CityTourCard Public Transport & Discounts: $16
- SEA LIFE Munich Admission Ticket: $18
- Day Ticket to Sea Life: $21
- Nymphenburg Palace/Munich Residenz Guided Tour: $21
- Crypts, Roof Terraces, & Hidden Things Walking Tour: $21
- 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Express Tour of Munich: $21
- Spooky Theatrical Performances and Old Town Tour: $32
- Munich Card (Group) with public transport: Save at attractions & tours!: $33
- Mysterious Old Town Theatrical Tour: $33
- City Tour & FC Bayern Munich Soccer Arena Tour: $34
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayIstanbul $4.30Munich $30
Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:
- Daily Tekirdag Wine Tasting Tour from Istanbul: $427
Typical Alcohol prices in Munich
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:
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Hofbrauhaus$13
Sample the Local Flavors in Munich
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Munich:
- Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $28
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Munich, we can see that Munich 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 Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich than you might in Istanbul.
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