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

Should you visit Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca, 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a beautiful, stunning, and cultural island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Istanbul and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Palma de Mallorca, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Palma de Mallorca is known for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Istanbul is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Palma de Mallorca is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns.

How is Istanbul different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is an amazing island to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Palma de Mallorca has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is notable for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is notable for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palma de Mallorca has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Palma de Mallorca are among the best in the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Istanbul can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Many people head to Palma de Mallorca to see the old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Palma de Mallorca has hiking trails worth exploring. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

Istanbul and Palma de Mallorca 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, Palma de Mallorca is very family-friendly. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca Better for Students?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Istanbul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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 Palma de Mallorca, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Istanbul is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca?

In either Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Palma de Mallorca because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 3-5 days is enough time in Palma de Mallorca.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

The beautiful island of Palma de Mallorca offers shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

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

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Palma de Mallorca. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Palma de Mallorca, 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 Palma de Mallorca?

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 Palma de Mallorca in the Summer?

Both Palma de Mallorca 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, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 334 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Istanbul is cooler than Palma de Mallorca. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Palma de Mallorca averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Palma de Mallorca during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca in the Winter?

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

In January, Istanbul is generally much colder than Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 164 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Palma de Mallorca in the Spring?

Both Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Istanbul is cooler than Palma de Mallorca in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Palma de Mallorca during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Palma de Mallorca. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palma de Mallorca and Istanbul