A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Versailles for Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Istanbul or Versailles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Versailles, 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. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Versailles

Versailles is a grand, ornate, and opulent palace. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for museums.

Istanbul and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Versailles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Versailles, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Versailles is known for its impressive beauty. Istanbul is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Versailles is popular for its long running history and its grand architecture.

How is Istanbul different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Versailles have amazing 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 Versailles are world-renowned. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Istanbul or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great city for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Istanbul or Versailles Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Versailles does not have a historic old town.

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.

Versailles does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Versailles?

Istanbul is a great city for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Istanbul. 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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Versailles Better for Families?

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

Istanbul is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Istanbul or Versailles Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Versailles 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.

Versailles makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

Is Istanbul or Versailles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Istanbul or Versailles Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles 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.

Versailles is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its public transit.

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.

Public transit in Versailles can get you to some places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

Is Istanbul or Versailles a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Versailles both are superb 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.

Versailles is a very walkable city. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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

Should I spend more time in Versailles or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Versailles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Versailles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Versailles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Versailles.

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

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

The beautiful palace of Versailles offers museums. 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 Versailles?

When visiting Istanbul, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Versailles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this palace makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Versailles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Versailles?

Istanbul, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Versailles is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums 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 Versailles?

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Versailles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This palace 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Versailles?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Versailles. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Versailles in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Versailles fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Versailles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Versailles. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Versailles in the Autumn?

Both Versailles and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, many travelers come to Versailles for the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Versailles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Versailles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Versailles during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Versailles. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Versailles in the Winter?

Both Versailles and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Versailles in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Versailles can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Versailles. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Istanbul or Versailles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Versailles. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Versailles for the natural beauty during these months.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Versailles in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Versailles fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Versailles. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Versailles and Istanbul