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

Should you visit Istanbul or Valletta?

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

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

Valletta

Valletta is a historic, charming, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Valletta?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Valletta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Istanbul is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Valletta is more popular for its beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Valletta and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Valletta is well known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Istanbul different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Valletta have first-rate landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Valletta 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 Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Istanbul or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Istanbul or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a moderate town for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Valletta 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.

Valletta has a world-famous historical area. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Valletta?

Both Istanbul and Valletta 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.

Valletta is well-known for its shopping. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Istanbul or Valletta Better for Families?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Istanbul. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Istanbul or Valletta Better for Couples?

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

Valletta has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Istanbul or Valletta Better for Students?

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

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

Valletta is not popular with students.

Is Istanbul or Valletta 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, Valletta 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 Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Istanbul or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is an amazing town 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 Valletta on foot. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Valletta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Valletta. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Valletta.

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

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

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 town of Valletta offers food and shopping. 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 Valletta?

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.

Valletta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Valletta, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Valletta?

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.

Valletta 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 Valletta?

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.

Valletta 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 town 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 Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Valletta?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 1640 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Istanbul has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Istanbul during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In July, Istanbul is generally cooler than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Istanbul. In the summer, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in July than Valletta. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valletta in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Valletta. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Istanbul is cooler than Valletta in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Valletta. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Valletta. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Valletta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Valletta averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Valletta. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Valletta in the Spring?

Both Valletta and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Valletta. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Valletta. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Istanbul