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

Should you visit Istanbul or Zurich?

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

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

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Istanbul and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Zurich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Zurich. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Zurich attracts visitors for its music and shopping. Istanbul is more touristy than Zurich and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Istanbul different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul
Zurich

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

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.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.


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

Istanbul
Zurich

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Istanbul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Zurich

Evening events are great in both Istanbul and Zurich.

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.

Zurich has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for Music?

Istanbul
Zurich

Zurich is notable for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.


Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Zurich

Istanbul and Zurich both have world-class 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.

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Zurich?

Istanbul
Zurich

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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.

Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for Families?

Istanbul
Zurich

Istanbul and Zurich are both great 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, Zurich is very family-friendly. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.


Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Zurich

Istanbul and Zurich are both great 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.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Zurich

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

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Istanbul or Zurich Better for Students?

Istanbul
Zurich

Zurich is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Zurich is a great destination for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.


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

Istanbul
Zurich

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

The public transit in Zurich can get you to most places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Istanbul or Zurich a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Zurich

Istanbul and Zurich both are great 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.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Zurich?

In either Istanbul or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Zurich because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Zurich. 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 Zurich. 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 Zurich 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.


  • How many days in Istanbul or Zurich? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Zurich 2-5

One day in Istanbul or Zurich?

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 Zurich offers museums and nightlife. 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 Zurich?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Zurich?

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.

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zurich, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Zurich?

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.

Zurich is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zurich or Istanbul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $127, while the average daily cost in Zurich is $273. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $48
    Zurich $173
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $96
    Zurich $346
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Zurich? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Istanbul


Hotels in Zurich


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Istanbul Hotel Prices and Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $56
    Zurich $36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Ferry
    $0.09
  • Local Bus
    $0.09

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Istanbul Airport Transfer Sabiha Gökçen Airport Transfer: $13
  • Princes' Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers: $14
  • Istanbul Airports Arrival or Departure Private Transfers: $14
  • Private Transfer from Istanbul Cruise Port to Istanbul hotels : $19
  • Private Economic VIP Transfer to/from Istanbul Airport : $20
  • Istanbul to Istanbul Airport (SAW) - Departure Private Transfer: $22
  • Princes' Islands Cruise with Lunch and Transfer Full-Day Tour: $23
  • Princes' Islands Cruise w/Music, Lunch & Transfer: $24
  • Istanbul City to Istanbul New Airport (IST) - Departure Private Transfer: $24
  • Istanbul to Istanbul Airport (ISL) - Departure Private Transfer: $24
  • Istanbul New Airport (IST) to City Center - Arrival Private Transfer: $24
  • Istanbul Airport Private Transfer: $25

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich - Arrival Private Transfer: $42
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Hotels to Zurich Airport: $54
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport to Zurich Hotels: $59
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Vals Thermal Resorts - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Noumea Cruise Port to Noumea hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $72
  • Private Transfer from Zurich City Center to Zurich Airport (ZRH): $74
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Badenweiler Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $77
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $80
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Business Car: $83
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $84
  • Private Transfer: Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH in Luxury Van: $92
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Luxury Van: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich and Istanbul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Istanbul $32
    Zurich $63
Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Juice
    $0.06
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.02
  • Dessert
    $0.27
  • Pastries
    $0.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.

  • Bosphorus Sunset Cruise & Dinner or Snack option: $14
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $22
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $25
  • Turkish Night on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $26
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $26
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise with All inclusive Dinner and Belly-Dancer Show : $27
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks and Shows: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $29
  • İstanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Traditional Turkish Show: $30
  • Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Show and Private Table: $30
  • Turkish Meze Cooking for Beginners in Istanbul: $31

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zurich.

  • Zürich Food Tour: $100
  • Culinary Tour from Zurich with Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue Dinner: $153

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $80
    Zurich $36
Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $0.62
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $0.62
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.31
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $0.94

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.43
  • Hagia Sophia Exclusive Digital Audio Guided Tour: $5.43
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Istanbul Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Istanbul Outdoor Escape Game: The Royal Adventure: $7.17
  • Istanbul Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Istanbul, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar Walk Tour: $9.05
  • App self-guided tours Istanbul with multilingual audioguide: $9.77
  • Self Guided Virtual Tour of Hagia Sophia The Highlights: $9.93
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Royal Adventure Highlights Exploration Game: $11

Tours and Activities in Zurich

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:

  • St. Gallen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Zurich Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Stein am Rhein Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Rapperswil Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Neuhausen Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • St. Gallen Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Entry Ticket Giza Plateau: $18
  • Tour of the old town with a visit to the Textile Museum: $25
  • City e-bike tour: $29
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: $29
  • FIFA Museum Tickets: $30
  • Giza: Half-Day Giza Pyramids and Sphinx Private Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $15
    Zurich $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • #1 Rated Istanbul Party Pub Crawl w Party Bus/Sultanahmet&Taksim: $28
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out: $33
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $84
  • 2-Day Wine Tasting Tour along the Thracian Wine Route: $180
  • Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430
  • Luxury Wine Tasting on a Private Yacht: $857

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Zurich: $32


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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Zurich?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Zurich, 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich in the Summer?

Both Zurich and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zurich in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Zurich. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Zurich averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Zurich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Zurich. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Zurich 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Zurich in the Autumn?

Both Zurich and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 120 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zurich. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Zurich 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Zurich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Zurich. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Zurich because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zurich can be very cold. Istanbul is much warmer than Zurich in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Zurich during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Zurich receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Zurich. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Zurich 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Zurich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Zurich. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Zurich this time of year.

In the spring, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Zurich. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Zurich averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Zurich. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zurich receives 150 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Zurich. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Zurich 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Zurich and Istanbul

Istanbul Zurich
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)