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

Should you visit Istanbul or Toulouse?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Toulouse, 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 high-energy, historic, and diverse 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a dynamic, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Toulouse?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Toulouse. Istanbul is bigger than Toulouse, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine.

How is Istanbul different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Toulouse can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

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.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Istanbul and Toulouse.

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.

Toulouse has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Istanbul can be explored in its historical center. 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 are many historical things to see in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Toulouse?

Both Istanbul and Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse Better for Families?

Istanbul and Toulouse are both high quality 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, Toulouse is very family-friendly. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Toulouse are both high quality 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.

Toulouse makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse Better for Students?

Istanbul is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

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

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Istanbul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Istanbul or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Toulouse both are high quality 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable city. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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 city of Toulouse offers food and shopping. 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 Toulouse?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Toulouse?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Toulouse. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Toulouse. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulouse. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Toulouse. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Toulouse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Toulouse in the Winter?

Both Toulouse and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Toulouse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Toulouse averages at about 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Toulouse. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Toulouse. 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 Toulouse because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Istanbul