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

Should you visit Istanbul or Osaka?

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

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

Osaka

Osaka is a high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Osaka?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Osaka. Istanbul is bigger than Osaka, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Osaka is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Istanbul is more touristy than Osaka and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

How is Istanbul different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Osaka 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 Osaka are world-renowned. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Osaka 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 Osaka have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

Is Istanbul or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka 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.

Osaka has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

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 Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Istanbul is revered around 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.

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Osaka?

Osaka 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.

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

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 Osaka Better for Families?

Istanbul and Osaka 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, Osaka is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Is Istanbul or Osaka Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Osaka 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.

Osaka makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

Is Istanbul or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Osaka 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Osaka. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Is Istanbul or Osaka Better for Students?

Istanbul and Osaka 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 Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

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

Both Istanbul and Osaka 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.

Osaka has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

Is Istanbul or Osaka a more walkable city?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Istanbul is a very walkable destination. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Osaka?

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

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Osaka. 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.

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

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 city of Osaka 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 Osaka?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Osaka?

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.

Osaka 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 Osaka?

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.

Osaka 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Osaka, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Istanbul is in Europe and Osaka is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Istanbul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Istanbul than you might in Osaka.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Osaka?

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

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 Osaka in the Summer?

Both Osaka 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 city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

In July, Istanbul is generally cooler than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Osaka. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Osaka in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Osaka. 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 Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Istanbul is cooler than Osaka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Osaka fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Osaka during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Osaka. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Osaka in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Osaka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Osaka averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Osaka. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Osaka. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Osaka in the Spring?

Both Osaka 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 Osaka for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Osaka during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Osaka. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Istanbul