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

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a active, nature-focused, and coastal city. You'll find world class beauty in Helsinki as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Helsinki travel costs.

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 Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Istanbul travel costs.

Helsinki and Istanbul: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Istanbul?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Helsinki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Istanbul is more touristy than Helsinki and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Istanbul?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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

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

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.

Dining out in Helsinki is an experience not to be missed. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Istanbul has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Istanbul?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Helsinki and Istanbul.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Istanbul. 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 Helsinki or Istanbul More Beautiful?

Helsinki is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Helsinki as well. The city's location on the tip of a peninsula means that the water has a huge influence over daily life. There are more than 300 islands in the area and plenty of nature and parkland. The city is filled with striking color and tons of beauty.

The beauty of Istanbul is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Istanbul are high quality to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Istanbul is known to be 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.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Istanbul are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Istanbul are high quality destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Many students visit Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Is Helsinki 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, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or Istanbul a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Istanbul or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Istanbul?

Both Helsinki 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 Helsinki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-7 days is enough time in Istanbul.

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

The beautiful city of Helsinki offers food and shopping. 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.

Istanbul is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Helsinki or Istanbul?

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

Istanbul is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Istanbul?

Helsinki 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Istanbul?

Helsinki 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.

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Istanbul?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Istanbul. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally cooler than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°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 Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Istanbul. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 333 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Istanbul. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

Helsinki is much colder than Istanbul in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Istanbul fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Istanbul during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Istanbul. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Istanbul. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Istanbul averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Istanbul. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Istanbul receives 75 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Istanbul. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Istanbul. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Istanbul during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Istanbul receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Helsinki