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

Should you visit Istanbul or York?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or York, 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. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and York: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or York?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than York, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more touristy than York and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. York is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is Istanbul different from York?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and York can be difficult as they are each fantastic 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 York have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Is Istanbul or York Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Istanbul and York.

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.

York has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is Istanbul or York Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and York both have fantastic 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.

York has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or York?

Istanbul is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is Istanbul or York Better for Families?

York is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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.

Is Istanbul or York Better for Couples?

Istanbul and York 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.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Is Istanbul or York Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Many backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Is Istanbul or York Better for Students?

Istanbul is a well-known place for students. However, York 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.

York is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is Istanbul or York a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in York or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or York?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or York. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-4 days is enough time in York.

Families should spend more time in York than Istanbul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in York, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Istanbul than York. 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 York 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 York?

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of York offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or York?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Istanbul or York?

Istanbul is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

York is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food 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 York?

Istanbul is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

York is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or York?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and York, 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 York?

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 York in the Summer?

Both York 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 York for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Istanbul is a little warmer than York in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and York fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than York during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 196 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than York. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while York receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or York in the Autumn?

Both York 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to York because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than York. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and York averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than York. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 112 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than York. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or York in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and York. 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 York this time of year.

It's quite cold in York in the winter. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than York. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and York fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than York during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while York receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than York. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while York receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or York in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as York. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

Istanbul is much warmer than York in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and York fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than York. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while York receives 151 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as York. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while York receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for York and Istanbul