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

Should you visit Istanbul or Stockholm?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Stockholm, 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 beautiful, high-energy, and historic 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a beautiful, clean, and coastal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Istanbul and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Stockholm?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Stockholm. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Stockholm attracts visitors for its music and impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Stockholm and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town.

How is Istanbul different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Istanbul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Istanbul and Stockholm.

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.

Stockholm has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm Better for Music?

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

Stockholm is a world class music destination. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Stockholm both have first-rate 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.

Stockholm has a world-famous historical area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Stockholm?

Both Istanbul and Stockholm are high quality shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Stockholm is well-known for its shopping. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Istanbul is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Both Istanbul and Stockholm offer first-rate public transit options.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

Is Istanbul or Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Stockholm?

Both Istanbul and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Istanbul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Stockholm, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful city of Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Stockholm?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Stockholm is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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 Stockholm has to offer. 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Stockholm?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Stockholm, 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 Stockholm?

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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Stockholm. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Stockholm averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Stockholm this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 260 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Stockholm. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Stockholm in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Stockholm. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Stockholm in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Stockholm. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 99 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Stockholm. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Stockholm in the Winter?

Both Stockholm and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Stockholm for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Stockholm can be very cold during winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Stockholm in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Stockholm fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Stockholm during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Stockholm receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Stockholm in the Spring?

Both Stockholm and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Stockholm averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Stockholm. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stockholm receives 185 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Stockholm. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Istanbul