A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Tenerife for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Istanbul or Tenerife?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Tenerife, 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a adventure-filled, beautiful, and volcanic island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Istanbul and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Tenerife?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Tenerife are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Tenerife is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Istanbul is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Tenerife is popular for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches.

How is Istanbul different from Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is very popular for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Istanbul from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Istanbul is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

Tenerife is an amazing island to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Tenerife has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is notable for its resorts. However, Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Tenerife is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Tenerife to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tenerife. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is very popular for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul has a world-famous historical 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.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Tenerife draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Tenerife?

Both Istanbul and Tenerife are superb 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.

Tenerife is well-known for its shopping. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Families?

Tenerife is an amazing island 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.

Tenerife is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

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 Tenerife Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Tenerife are both superb 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.

Tenerife makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Tenerife is a good city to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Is Istanbul or Tenerife Better for Students?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife is not popular with students.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

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

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

Istanbul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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 Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

Is Istanbul or Tenerife a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Tenerife?

Both Istanbul and Tenerife have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Istanbul has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Istanbul than Tenerife. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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 island of Tenerife offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tenerife?

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.

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

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.

Tenerife is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tenerife has to offer. This island 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

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

When is the best time to visit Istanbul or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

Both Tenerife and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Tenerife in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Tenerife fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Tenerife. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 268 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Tenerife. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Tenerife in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Tenerife. 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 Tenerife for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Istanbul is cooler than Tenerife. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Tenerife averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Tenerife during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Tenerife in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Tenerife. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Tenerife in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Istanbul is generally much colder than Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Tenerife. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 191 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Tenerife. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Tenerife in the Spring?

Both Tenerife and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Istanbul is cooler than Tenerife in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Tenerife fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Tenerife during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 205 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Istanbul