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

Should you visit Istanbul or San Remo?

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

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

San Remo

San Remo is a scenic, authentic, and historic coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Istanbul and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or San Remo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than San Remo. Istanbul is bigger than San Remo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while San Remo is more popular for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than San Remo and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. San Remo is well known for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Istanbul different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is terrific for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Istanbul has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its restaurants. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Istanbul has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for Beaches?

San Remo is notable for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Remo. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or San Remo?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for Families?

Istanbul and San Remo are both very good 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, San Remo is very family-friendly. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for Couples?

Istanbul and San Remo 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.

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Istanbul or San Remo Better for Students?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Istanbul or San Remo a more walkable city?

Istanbul and San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very walkable city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or San Remo?

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

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than San Remo. 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 San Remo. 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 San Remo 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 San Remo?

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 coastal city of San Remo offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 San Remo?

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.

San Remo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Remo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or San Remo?

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.

San Remo 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 San Remo?

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.

San Remo 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 coastal 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or San Remo?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 220 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

Both San Remo and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as San Remo. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In San Remo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than San Remo. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or San Remo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and San Remo. 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 San Remo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as San Remo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and San Remo fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Istanbul or San Remo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as San Remo. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

In the winter, Istanbul is cooler than San Remo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and San Remo averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than San Remo. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or San Remo in the Spring?

Both San Remo and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as San Remo. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than San Remo. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Istanbul