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

Should you visit Istanbul or Caltagirone?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Caltagirone, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Istanbul attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Istanbul travel costs.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a charming, quaint, and friendly city. Caltagirone is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Caltagirone travel costs.

Istanbul and Caltagirone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Caltagirone?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Caltagirone, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Istanbul is more touristy than Caltagirone and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Caltagirone is well known for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase.

How is Istanbul different from Caltagirone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. 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.

Caltagirone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.

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

Istanbul is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Caltagirone 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Caltagirone. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is well known for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Istanbul has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

Caltagirone is a good destination for visiting its old town. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Caltagirone?

Both Istanbul and Caltagirone are high quality shopping destinations.

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.

Caltagirone is well-known for its shopping. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone More Beautiful?

Istanbul is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Istanbul attracts visitors from all around. With its many beautiful mosques and historic sights, it is a beautiful city by the Bosphorus.

Caltagirone is a gorgeous place to visit. The architecture and setting is quite beautiful and charming with nice views from the top of the hill.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone Better for Families?

Istanbul is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Caltagirone is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone Better for Couples?

Istanbul is well known for couples. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Caltagirone is a nice destination for couples. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is terrific for backpackers. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit 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.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. However, Caltagirone 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.

Caltagirone is not popular with students.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Istanbul can take you anywhere. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Caltagirone offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel in and out of town.

Is Istanbul or Caltagirone a more walkable city?

Istanbul is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Caltagirone is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Caltagirone or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Caltagirone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Caltagirone to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Caltagirone because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Caltagirone.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Caltagirone. 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 Caltagirone. 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 Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone?

Istanbul is a high-energy city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Caltagirone 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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Caltagirone?

Istanbul is a historic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Caltagirone?

Istanbul is a high-energy city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone?

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Caltagirone 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.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Caltagirone, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Caltagirone much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Caltagirone would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Caltagirone?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Caltagirone. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Caltagirone, 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 Caltagirone?

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 Caltagirone in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Caltagirone. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Caltagirone for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally cooler than Caltagirone. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Caltagirone fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Caltagirone this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Caltagirone during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Caltagirone receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Caltagirone. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Caltagirone in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Caltagirone. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Caltagirone in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is cooler than Caltagirone in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Caltagirone fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Caltagirone. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caltagirone receives 189 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Caltagirone. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Caltagirone in the Winter?

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

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

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Caltagirone during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Caltagirone receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Caltagirone. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Caltagirone in the Spring?

Both Caltagirone and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Caltagirone because of the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally cooler than Caltagirone. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Caltagirone fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Caltagirone, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Caltagirone. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caltagirone receives 204 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Caltagirone and Istanbul