A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Istanbul for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul are popular destinations, Istanbul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Istanbul is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Istanbul and Thiva (Thebes). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Istanbul is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Istanbul have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Istanbul know how to have a good time. 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 Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul has a world-famous historical 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Istanbul is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for Families?

Istanbul is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Istanbul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is very popular for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Istanbul is very popular for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Istanbul Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Thiva (Thebes). Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Istanbul that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

The city of Thiva (Thebes) offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

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

Istanbul is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 city offers something for everyone.

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey.

When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Istanbul Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 510 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul, 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Istanbul. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Istanbul. The autumn months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Istanbul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Istanbul. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is much warmer than Istanbul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Istanbul averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Istanbul in the Spring?

Both Istanbul and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Istanbul. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Thiva (Thebes)