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

Should you visit Istanbul or Verona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Verona, 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. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Verona

Verona is a romantic, cultural, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Verona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Verona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Verona. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Verona and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Verona is famous for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.

How is Istanbul different from Verona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Istanbul are world-renowned. 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.

Many visitors head to Verona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Verona is an experience not to be missed. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Is Istanbul or Verona Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Istanbul has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Istanbul or Verona Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Istanbul offers plenty to see. 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 Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Verona?

Istanbul is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Verona to go shopping. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Istanbul or Verona Better for Families?

Istanbul is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Istanbul or Verona Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Verona 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.

Verona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

Is Istanbul or Verona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Istanbul is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Istanbul or Verona Better for Students?

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

Istanbul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Verona is a good city to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Istanbul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Verona has a few public transit options. ATV operates buses through the city.

Is Istanbul or Verona a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Verona 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.

Verona is a very walkable city. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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

Should I spend more time in Verona or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Verona?

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

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

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Verona 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 Verona?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Verona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Verona 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 Verona?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Verona 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 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Verona?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Verona. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Verona, 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 Verona?

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 Verona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Verona. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Verona for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Verona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Verona averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Verona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Verona. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 286 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Verona. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Verona receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Verona in the Autumn?

Both Verona and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Verona because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Verona. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Verona fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Verona during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Verona. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Verona receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Verona in the Winter?

Both Verona and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Verona this time of year.

It's quite cold in Verona in the winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Verona in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Verona fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Verona. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Verona receives 98 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Verona. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Verona receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Verona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Verona. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Verona for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Verona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Verona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Verona during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Verona receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Verona. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Verona receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Verona and Istanbul