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

Should you visit Istanbul or Windsor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Windsor, 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 beautiful, high-energy, and historic 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor

Windsor is a beautiful, royal, and traditional town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Istanbul and Windsor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Windsor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Windsor are popular destinations, Istanbul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Windsor and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Windsor is famous for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Istanbul different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Istanbul or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Istanbul or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Istanbul is revered around the world. 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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Windsor?

Istanbul is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Windsor Better for Families?

Istanbul is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Istanbul or Windsor Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Windsor 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.

Windsor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Is Istanbul or Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Istanbul or Windsor Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Istanbul can get you around easily. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Istanbul or Windsor a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Windsor 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.

Windsor is a very walkable city. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Windsor 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 Windsor.

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

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.

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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 Windsor?

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.

Windsor 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Windsor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Windsor?

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.

Windsor 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 Windsor?

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.

Windsor is a great place to explore. 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 United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Windsor?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 390 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Windsor, 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Windsor. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Windsor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Windsor averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Windsor. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Windsor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Windsor. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Windsor. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Windsor fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 107 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Windsor. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Windsor in the Winter?

Both Windsor and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Windsor this time of year.

It's quite cold in Windsor in the winter. Istanbul is a little warmer than Windsor in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Windsor fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Windsor during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Windsor receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Windsor. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Windsor in the Spring?

Both Windsor and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Windsor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Windsor averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Windsor. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Windsor receives 147 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Windsor. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Windsor receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Windsor and Istanbul