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

Should you visit Volos or Istanbul?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Volos and Istanbul can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

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

Istanbul

Istanbul is a diverse, beautiful, and high-energy 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Volos and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Volos or Istanbul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Volos. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Volos attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Istanbul is more touristy than Volos and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Volos is famous for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty.

How is Volos different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Volos or Istanbul?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Istanbul are world-renowned. 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.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Volos is an experience not to be missed. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Volos and Istanbul.

Volos has a large number of nightlife venues. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

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.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Volos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Beaches?

Volos is notable for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Volos. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Volos does not have a historic old town.

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.

Volos does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Istanbul?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Volos to go shopping. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Families?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Volos. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Istanbul is extremely popular 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.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.

Is Volos or Istanbul Better for Students?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

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

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

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.

You'll find some public transit in Volos, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that travels around town.

Is Volos or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Volos and Istanbul are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Volos is a very walkable city. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Volos?

How long in Volos or Istanbul?

Both Volos 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 Volos. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volos, and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Volos. 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 Volos. 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 Volos 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 Volos or Istanbul?

The city of Volos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Volos or Istanbul?

Volos 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Volos, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Volos or Istanbul?

Volos 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.

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Volos or Istanbul?

Volos is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Volos and Istanbul, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Volos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Volos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Volos 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 Istanbul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Istanbul than you might in Volos.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Volos Expensive? and Is Istanbul Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Volos or Istanbul?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Volos. When comparing the sizes of Volos 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 Volos or Istanbul?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Volos or Istanbul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Volos as well as Istanbul. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Volos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Volos is generally around the same temperature as Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 26°C (78°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volos this time of the year. In the summer, Volos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Istanbul. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volos or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Volos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Volos for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, 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.

Volos is around the same temperature as Istanbul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Volos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul during autumn. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Volos usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Volos or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Volos during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Volos in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Volos is around the same temperature as Istanbul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Volos in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Istanbul averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Volos often gets more sunshine than Istanbul. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in January than Istanbul. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volos or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Volos and Istanbul. Most visitors come to Volos for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Volos is generally around the same temperature as Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 14°C (56°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Volos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Volos usually receives more sunshine than Istanbul during spring. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volos usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Volos