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

Should you visit Istanbul or Aalborg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Aalborg, 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 beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Istanbul travel costs.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a historic, charming, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Aalborg travel costs.

Istanbul and Aalborg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Aalborg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Aalborg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg is known for its small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Aalborg and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Aalborg is popular for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Istanbul different from Aalborg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. 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.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

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

Istanbul is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Aalborg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Istanbul and Aalborg.

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.

Aalborg has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Istanbul is one of the most recognized in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Aalborg?

Istanbul is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg More Beautiful?

Istanbul is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Aalborg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Istanbul is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Aalborg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg Better for Families?

Istanbul is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg Better for Couples?

Istanbul is a great destination for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

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

Istanbul is renowned for its public transit. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has a great public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.

Is Istanbul or Aalborg a more walkable city?

Istanbul is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Aalborg or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Aalborg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Aalborg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Aalborg. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aalborg.

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

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Aalborg 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Aalborg?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Aalborg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aalborg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Aalborg?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Aalborg 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.

A week in Istanbul or Aalborg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Aalborg 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, and The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Aalborg?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Aalborg, 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 Aalborg?

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 Aalborg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Aalborg. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aalborg in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Aalborg in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Aalborg fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Aalborg. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Aalborg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Aalborg. 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. Also, most visitors come to Aalborg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Istanbul is much warmer than Aalborg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Aalborg averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Aalborg. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Aalborg in the Winter?

Both Aalborg and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Aalborg can be very cold. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Aalborg. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Aalborg. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Aalborg in the Spring?

Both Aalborg and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year.

Istanbul is much warmer than Aalborg in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Aalborg fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Aalborg. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aalborg and Istanbul