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

Should you visit Istanbul or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Pamplona, 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 historic, diverse, and beautiful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a laid-back, historic, and elegant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Istanbul and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Pamplona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Pamplona. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pamplona attracts visitors for its hiking. Istanbul is more touristy than Pamplona and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Pamplona is famous for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Istanbul different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Istanbul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Pamplona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Istanbul and Pamplona.

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. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Pamplona has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Pamplona is a popular spot for hiking. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Pamplona?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for Families?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona Better for Students?

Istanbul is a well-known place for students. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Istanbul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its public transit. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Pamplona has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Istanbul or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Pamplona both are very good 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.

Pamplona is a very walkable city. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

Istanbul is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The city of Pamplona offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Pamplona?

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Pamplona 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pamplona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Pamplona?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Pamplona, we can see that Pamplona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Pamplona?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Istanbul or Pamplona in the Summer?

Both Pamplona and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Pamplona averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Pamplona. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Pamplona in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Pamplona. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

Istanbul is cooler than Pamplona in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Pamplona. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Pamplona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Pamplona averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Istanbul