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

Should you visit Istanbul or Villach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Villach, 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 historic, diverse, and beautiful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Istanbul attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Istanbul travel costs.

Villach

Villach is a outdoorsy, historic, and nature-filled town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Villach is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums. See Villach travel costs.

Istanbul and Villach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Villach?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Villach. Istanbul is bigger than Villach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Villach is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Villach and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Villach is well known for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Istanbul different from Villach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. 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.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its 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.

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Villach. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town.

Istanbul has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Villach is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for Hiking?

Villach is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Villach is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Villach?

Istanbul is notable for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Istanbul or Villach More Beautiful?

Istanbul and Villach both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

The beauty of Villach is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The lakes, mountains, and beautiful natural scenery make this town a truly special place to visit.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for Families?

Istanbul and Villach are both very good 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, Villach is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Villach 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.

Villach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit 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.

Villach is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

Is Istanbul or Villach Better for Students?

Istanbul is notable for students. However, Villach is not popular with students.

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

Villach is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Is Istanbul or Villach a more walkable city?

Istanbul is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

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

Villach is generally not a very walkable city. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Villach or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Villach?

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

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

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Villach offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Villach?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Villach 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Villach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Villach?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Villach 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 Villach?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Villach is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Villach, 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 Villach Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Villach?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Villach. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Villach, 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 Villach?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Istanbul or Villach in the Summer?

Both Villach and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Villach. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Villach fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Villach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Villach during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Villach. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Villach in the Autumn?

Both Villach and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Villach because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Villach. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 167 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Villach. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Villach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Villach. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Villach this time of year.

In the winter, Istanbul is a little warmer than Villach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Villach averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Villach during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Villach. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Villach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Villach. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Villach. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Villach fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Villach. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 177 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Villach. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Villach and Istanbul