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

Should you visit Istanbul or Salzburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Salzburg, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Istanbul attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Istanbul travel costs.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a recognizable, historic, and beautiful city. You'll find world class beauty in Salzburg as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music. See Salzburg travel costs.

Istanbul and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Salzburg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Salzburg. Istanbul is bigger than Salzburg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Salzburg is more popular for its music, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Istanbul is well known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Salzburg is well known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music.

How is Istanbul different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

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

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Istanbul offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Salzburg both have amazing historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Salzburg has a world-famous historical area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Salzburg?

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg More Beautiful?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Salzburg as well. This stunning city is known for its beautiful churches and hillside views.

The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for Families?

Istanbul and Salzburg 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, Salzburg is very family-friendly. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Salzburg has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Salzburg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Salzburg is a great destination for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg 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.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Istanbul or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Salzburg both are superb 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.

Salzburg is a very walkable city. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Salzburg?

In either Istanbul or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Salzburg. 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 Salzburg than Istanbul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Salzburg that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

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 beautiful city of Salzburg offers museums and nightlife. 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 Salzburg?

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.

Salzburg 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.

Five days in Istanbul or Salzburg?

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.

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

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.

Salzburg 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 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Salzburg?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

Both Salzburg and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In July, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Salzburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Salzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Salzburg. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Salzburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Salzburg. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Salzburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Salzburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Istanbul is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Salzburg. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Salzburg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Salzburg. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Istanbul