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

Should you visit Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro, 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.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a high energy, colorful, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Rio de Janeiro as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Rio de Janeiro than Istanbul. While Istanbul is larger than Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Rio de Janeiro is better known for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Istanbul is more popular for its historical sights. Istanbul is well known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Rio de Janeiro is well known for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. Also, Rio de Janeiro is famous for Christ the Redeemer.

How is Istanbul different from Rio de Janeiro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Both Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro have first-rate 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 Rio de Janeiro are world-renowned. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Is the Food Better in Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro can be difficult as they are each first-rate in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Rio de Janeiro have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro Better for Nightlife?

Rio de Janeiro 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.

Rio de Janeiro has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

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 Rio de Janeiro Better for Beaches?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Rio de Janeiro are among the best in the world. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rio de Janeiro 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.

Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Rio de Janeiro draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Rio de Janeiro is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

Istanbul is well-known for its shopping. 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 Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro as well. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

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 Rio de Janeiro Better for Families?

Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro are both high quality 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, Rio de Janeiro is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Rio de Janeiro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro are first-rate 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, Rio de Janeiro is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro Better for Students?

Istanbul is a great destination for students. However, Rio de Janeiro 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.

Rio de Janeiro is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Rio de Janeiro is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit in Rio de Janeiro is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

Is Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro both are high quality 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.

Rio de Janeiro is a very walkable city. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rio de Janeiro or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Rio de Janeiro 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 4-6 days is enough time in Rio de Janeiro.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Rio de Janeiro offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Rio de Janeiro is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Rio de Janeiro is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rio de Janeiro, 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rio de Janeiro is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 G Adventures Tours to Brazil, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Rio de Janeiro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Istanbul is in Europe and Rio de Janeiro is in South America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Rio de Janeiro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Rio de Janeiro. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro, 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rio de Janeiro is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Istanbul has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Rio de Janeiro. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Rio de Janeiro receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin January. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Rio de Janeiro. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rio de Janeiro in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is much colder than Rio de Janeiro in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Rio de Janeiroin April. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. December to April in Rio de Janeiro is the rainy season.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro in the Winter?

Both Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Istanbul is much colder than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 21°C (70°F)in July.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Rio de Janeiroin July. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rio de Janeiro in the Spring?

Both Rio de Janeiro 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. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally much colder than Rio de Janeiroin October. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Rio de Janeiroin October. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the dry season in Rio de Janeiro. December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro.

Typical Weather for Rio de Janeiro and Istanbul