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

Should you visit Istanbul or Hannover?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Hannover, 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 high-energy, historic, and diverse 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Istanbul travel costs.

Hannover

Hannover is a vibrant, cultural, and dynamic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Hannover travel costs.

Istanbul and Hannover: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Hannover?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Istanbul than Hannover, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Istanbul is more touristy than Hannover and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Hannover is popular for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system.

How is Istanbul different from Hannover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Istanbul from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Hannover offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.


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

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Istanbul or Hannover Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Hannover

Evening events are great in both Istanbul and Hannover.

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.

Hannover has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

Is Istanbul or Hannover Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Istanbul has a world-famous historical 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.

Many people head to Hannover to see the old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Hannover?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is a great city for shopping. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Hannover offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Is Istanbul or Hannover More Beautiful?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Hannover 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.

Hannover is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Istanbul or Hannover Better for Families?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.


Is Istanbul or Hannover Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is a great city for romance. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Istanbul is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

Is Istanbul or Hannover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Istanbul. 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 Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

Is Istanbul or Hannover Better for Students?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul and Hannover are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Students come from all over to stay in Hannover. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.


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

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Istanbul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Hannover has some very good public transit options. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.

Is Istanbul or Hannover a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Hannover

Istanbul and Hannover both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Hannover is a very walkable city. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Hannover or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Hannover?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Hannover to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Hannover 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 Hannover.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Hannover. 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 Hannover. 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 Hannover 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.


  • How many days in Istanbul or Hannover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Hannover 1-2

One day in Istanbul or Hannover?

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.

The city of Hannover 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 Hannover?

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.

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

Five days in Istanbul or Hannover?

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.

Hannover 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 Hannover?

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.

Hannover 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, and The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Hannover or Istanbul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $179, while the average daily cost in Hannover is $223. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Istanbul and Hannover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $83
    Hannover $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $166
    Hannover $200
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Hannover

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul or Hannover? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Istanbul


Hotels in Hannover


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Istanbul Hotel Prices and Hannover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $39
    Hannover $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Istanbul Private Cultural Tours, Hotel Transfers Including: $299
  • Miniatürk Istanbul Private Guided Tour & Optional Transfers: $249
  • Istanbul Airport Transfer: Istanbul to New Airport IST in Luxury Car: $246
  • Private Transfer to Bursa Uludag Hotels from Sabiha Gokcen airport: $245
  • Istanbul Airport to Sabiha Airport Private Transfer or Vice Versa (1-10pax): $232
  • Private Transfer from Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW) to Istanbul Airport (IST) : $191
  • Istanbul Layover Tour: Private & Personalized with Transfers: $190
  • Istanbul Private Guided Tour for Cruise Layovers. Transfers incl.: $180
  • Istanbul Private Tour Designed for Layover Flight, Transfer incl.: $175
  • Istanbul to Truva Troy Guided Day Tour with Lunch and Transfers: $172
  • Istanbul NEW Airport Private Transfer: $165
  • Istanbul Airport to Sabiha Airport Private Transfer or Vice Versa (1-6pax): $162

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hannover

Also for Hannover, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $153
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $231

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Hannover?

Prices for flights to both Hannover and Istanbul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Istanbul $66
    Hannover $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.

  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show: $24
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Show and Private Table: $30
  • Bosphorus Night Cruise with Dinner, Shows and Party : $30
  • Budget Evening Cruise: Dinner, Live Shows & Party: $30
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Dance Shows with Private Table: $31
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise Dinner, Drinks & Show with Pickup: $32
  • Dinner Cruise On The Bosphorus with Turkish night show: $34
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Entertaintment & Private Table & Wi-Fi: $36
  • Bosphorus Evening Cruise: Dinner, Live Shows & Private Table: $36
  • Luxury Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Shows Private Table & Free Wi-Fi: $36
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Drinks and Shows: $41
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Folk Dance and Live Performances: $42

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Istanbul $43
    Hannover $41

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:

  • All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $180
  • Bosphorus Cruise And Asia Minor Tour: $220
  • Bosphorus Morning or Sunset Guided Cruise Tour: $26
  • Digital Experience Museum Skip the Line Entry: $35
  • Discover the Magic of Old City – A Walking Tour Through Time: $60
  • Full day old city tour (LT1): $179
  • Istanbul Half Day City Tour (Ottoman Relics): $95
  • Istanbul Self Guided Walking Tour : $5.00
  • Istanbul Wonders FullDay Skipping Lines Private Guided City Tour: $128
  • Istanbul's Hidden Gems Private Walking City Tour: $144
  • Private Guided Istanbul Walking Tour: $170
  • "Classic Wonders" Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in Hannover

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hannover.

  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $13
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $17
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $20
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $22
  • SEA LIFE Hannover Ticket: $23
  • Culinary bike tour: $45
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $45
  • Adventure Breakfast and Escape Game in Braunschweig: $55
  • Private Hannover City Tour: $179

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $12
    Hannover $40

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $28
  • Istanbul Nightlife Pub Crawl Pub and İstanbul Club Adventure: $30
  • Pub Crawl Istanbul / Rooftop Clubs & Party Bus: $30
  • Istanbul Pub Crawl: Adults-Only Nightlife Adventure: $31
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $78
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $210


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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Hannover?

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

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 Istanbul or Hannover in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Hannover. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hannover in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Hannover in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°F) in July, and Hannover fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Hannover. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 198 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Hannover. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Hannover 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Hannover in the Autumn?

Both Hannover and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Hannover for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Istanbul is much warmer than Hannover. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Hannover averages at about 10°C (51°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Hannover during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Hannover. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Hannover 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Hannover in the Winter?

Both Hannover and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hannover because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hannover can be very cold. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Hannover. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Hannover fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Hannover. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 42 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Hannover. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Hannover 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Hannover in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Hannover. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Hannover this time of year.

Istanbul is much warmer than Hannover in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Hannover fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Hannover during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hannover. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Istanbul 13°C (55°F) 
    Hannover 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Hannover and Istanbul

Istanbul Hannover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (35°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 17°C (63°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 5°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)