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

Should you visit Istanbul or Rouen?

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

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

Rouen

Rouen is a impressive, relaxing, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Rouen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Rouen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Rouen is famous for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Istanbul different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen 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 Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Istanbul or Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Istanbul or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Rouen?

Istanbul is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Istanbul or Rouen Better for Families?

Istanbul is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Istanbul or Rouen Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Rouen are both very good 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.

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Istanbul or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Istanbul or Rouen Better for Students?

Istanbul is notable for students. However, Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

The public transit in Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

Is Istanbul or Rouen a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very walkable city. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Rouen?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Rouen to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Rouen 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 Rouen.

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

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 beautiful city of Rouen offers food and shopping. 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 Rouen?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Rouen, we can see that Istanbul 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 Rouen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Rouen?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

Both Rouen 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Rouen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Rouen averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Rouen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Rouen. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rouen in the Autumn?

Both Rouen 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rouen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Rouen. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 127 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Rouen. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rouen in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Rouen in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Rouen fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Rouen during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Rouen. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rouen in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Rouen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rouen averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rouen. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Rouen. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Istanbul