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

Should you visit Istanbul or Prague?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Prague, 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 historic, diverse, and beautiful 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Istanbul travel costs.

Prague

Prague is a fun-filled, cultural, and historical city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. You'll find world class beauty in Prague as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Prague travel costs.

Istanbul and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Prague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Prague. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Prague attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and impressive beauty. Istanbul is famous for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Prague is famous for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge.

How is Istanbul different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Istanbul and Prague have world-class landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Prague are world-renowned. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum. Throughout the Old Town you'll see the spires of the many churches which define the city's skyline. The Prague Castle is not to be missed as it's the largest castle complex in the world.

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its 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.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Istanbul or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Prague has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

Istanbul has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Istanbul or Prague Better for Music?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Prague is a world class music destination. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well. Many visitors specifically come just to experience the world class music scene.

Istanbul is not a live music destination.

Is Istanbul or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Prague both have world-class historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Prague has a world-famous historical area. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world. It truly feels like something out of a fairytale. Most of the tourists spend the majority of their time exploring the old town, and after a full day of wandering, you can cozy up with a strudel and a drink in one of the many cafes.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Prague?

Both Istanbul and Prague are great 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.

Prague is well-known for its shopping. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy. You'll find tons of souvenir and trinket shops throughout the area.

Is Istanbul or Prague More Beautiful?

Prague 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 Prague as well. The city is filled with beautiful historic architecture and stunning landmarks. It's a truly historic and impressive city.

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 Istanbul or Prague Better for Families?

Istanbul and Prague are both great destinations for the whole family.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Prague is very family-friendly. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Is Istanbul or Prague Better for Couples?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Prague has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Istanbul or Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Istanbul and Prague are world-class destinations for backpackers.

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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Prague is extremely popular for backpackers. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

Is Istanbul or Prague Better for Students?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Prague is a great destination for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Students come from all over to stay in Istanbul. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Both Istanbul and Prague offer world-class public transit options.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Prague has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Is Istanbul or Prague a more walkable city?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Prague on foot. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Prague?

Both Istanbul and Prague have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Prague has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Prague than Istanbul. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Prague than Istanbul 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 Prague.

One day in Istanbul or Prague?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Prague offers live music and shopping. 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 Istanbul or Prague?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Prague 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Prague, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Istanbul or Prague?

Istanbul is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Prague 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 Prague has to offer. 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 Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Prague?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Prague. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Prague, 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 Prague?

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 Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Prague averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Prague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Prague during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Prague. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Prague. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Prague. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Prague in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Prague. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Prague because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Prague can be very cold. Istanbul is much warmer than Prague in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Prague during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Prague. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Prague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Prague. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Prague averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Prague. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Prague. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Prague and Istanbul