A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Turin (Torino) for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Istanbul or Turin (Torino)?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Turin (Torino), 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. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Istanbul travel costs.

Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a historic, lively, and beautiful city. Turin (Torino) is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Turin (Torino) travel costs.

Istanbul and Turin (Torino): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Turin (Torino)?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Turin (Torino). Istanbul is bigger than Turin (Torino), and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Turin (Torino) and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Turin (Torino) is well known for its grand squares, beautiful palaces, and easy access to the Alps.

How is Istanbul different from Turin (Torino)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

Istanbul is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Turin (Torino). The city boasts a number of museums including The Egyptian Museum, Museo Nazionale del Cinema, and Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile. Other landmarks include the Royal Armory, The Cathedral and the Holy Shroud, and Palazzo Madama.

Is the Food Better in Istanbul or Turin (Torino)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Turin (Torino). The region has been credited with being the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. The dishes often use locally made ingredients and there are very diverse flavors and recipes. Local favorites include antipasto misto, risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto), and carne cruda (beef tartare).

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Turin (Torino). There's a good nightlife scene that includes everything from bars to dance clubs. Via Po is one of the city's main bar hopping streets. For a more relaxed night out head to Via Garibaldi which has a number of restaurants and cocktail bars.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Turin (Torino) does not have a historic 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.

Turin (Torino) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Turin (Torino)?

Istanbul is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Turin (Torino). The city has everything from high end shopping to local boutiques. For the best luxury shopping head to Via Roma. Via Garibaldi is another popular pedestrian street that has many shops and restaurants.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) More Beautiful?

Istanbul and Turin (Torino) both are comparable with their superb scenery and 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.

The beauty of Turin (Torino) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city has an elegant beauty with breathtaking views of the Alps.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for Families?

Istanbul is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Turin (Torino) is a family-friendly city. If the kids need to stretch their legs, head to Valentino Park. For kid-friendly museums, check out The Cinema Museum The Egyptian Museum, or the Museum of Car. It's also fun to take a ride of the historic tram.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Turin (Torino) are both superb 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.

Turin (Torino) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With grand squares, beautiful architecture, and excellent cuisine, couples will enjoy every minute of their trip to Turin. The city is also near the Alps, so outdoor adventure isn't far away.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is renowned for backpackers. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Turin (Torino) is very popular with the backpacker crowd. You'll find hostels around town and easy access to outdoor activities. The city also has great food and a lively atmosphere.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for Students?

Istanbul and Turin (Torino) are both superb 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 Turin (Torino). It's relatively easy to find study abroad opportunities to the area. The city's atmosphere is diverse and fun with many activities that the student population can enjoy.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Istanbul is renowned for its public transit. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Visitors to Turin (Torino) can move around easily with public transportation. The public transit system is operated by Gruppo Torinese Trasporti (GTT) and includes one metro line, nine tram lines, and a number of bus lines.

Is Istanbul or Turin (Torino) a more walkable city?

Istanbul is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Turin (Torino) is somewhat walkable. While the city is large, the city center is generally compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Turin (Torino) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Turin (Torino) or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Turin (Torino)?

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

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

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 Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

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.

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Turin (Torino)?

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.

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

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.

Turin (Torino) 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Turin (Torino)?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Turin (Torino). When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Turin (Torino), 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.