A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Tartu for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Antalya or Tartu?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Tartu? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a high energy, relaxing, and luxurious vacation spot. With stunning beauty, Antalya attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Antalya travel costs.

Tartu

Tartu is a lively, intellectual, and student-oriented university town. Tartu offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Antalya and Tartu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Tartu?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya than Tartu. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antalya is more touristy than Tartu and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also well known for Hadrian's Gate. Tartu is famous for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Antalya different from Tartu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Tartu?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Tartu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Tartu.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Tartu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its music scene. However, Tartu is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Tartu is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tartu is not a resort destination.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Tartu is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tartu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Tartu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for the beach. However, Tartu is not a beach destination.

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Tartu is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the excellent old towns in both Antalya and Tartu.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Hiking?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for hiking. However, Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Antalya for the hiking trails. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Tartu?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Antalya or Tartu More Beautiful?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Antalya attracts visitors from all around. It is a beautiful city with historic buildings and stunning beaches.

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Families?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Couples?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Antalya is a great vacation spot if you're traveling as a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Tartu are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Students?

Tartu is an amazing university town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Tartu. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Tartu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is a great vacation spot for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Antalya. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Antalya or Tartu a more walkable city?

Tartu is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Tartu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tartu or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Tartu?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antalya and Tartu. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than in Tartu. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-3 days is enough time in Tartu.

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

Couples should spend more time in Antalya than Tartu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antalya that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Tartu 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Tartu?

In Antalya, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this luxurious destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This vacation spot 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.

In Tartu, you'll find nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This university town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antalya or Tartu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Tartu, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tartu has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Tartu?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. In Antalya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Tartu is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Tartu?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing destination of Antalya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tartu. Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Tartu. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, and The Best Budget Tours to Estonia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Tartu?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Tartu, 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 Antalya or Tartu?

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 Antalya or Tartu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Tartu. Many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Antalya is much warmer than Tartu in the summer. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Tartu fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tartu this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antalya usually receives less rain than Tartu. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Tartu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Tartu. Most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Tartu because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Antalya is much warmer than Tartu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antalya in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Tartu averages at about 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 86 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in October than Tartu. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Tartu in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Tartu in the winter. In January, Antalya is generally much warmer than Tartu. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 11°C (51°F), and Tartu fluctuates around -7°C (19°F).

Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 36 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Antalya. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Tartu. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Tartu in the Spring?

Both Tartu and Antalya during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tartu for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. Antalya is much warmer than Tartu in the spring. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 16°C (62°F) in April, and Tartu fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the spring, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 180 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in April than Tartu. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tartu and Antalya