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Istanbul vs Paris

Can't choose between Istanbul and Paris? Look at cost, timing, and the kind of trip you want. If money is the main thing, Istanbul is cheaper.

June, July, August
Best time to visit
May, June, September
$130cheaper
Typical cost / day
€156
USD
Currency
EUR
4 days
Ideal length
4 days
18 spots
Live highlights
13 spots

Top things to do in Istanbul

  • İskenderpaşa
  • Column of Marcian
  • Church of St. Polyeuctus
  • Aksaray station
  • Local food tour of Istanbul

Top things to do in Paris

  • Louvre Museum (book timed entry)
  • Notre-Dame & Île de la Cité walk
  • Musée d'Orsay impressionists
  • Eiffel Tower summit at sunset
  • Le Marais pastry & cheese crawl

So, Istanbul or Paris?

I

Istanbul is the pick if you want better value and highlights like İskenderpaşa and Column of Marcian. Best visited June or July.

P

Paris is the better call for Louvre Museum (book timed entry) and Notre-Dame & Île de la Cité walk. Best visited May or June.

Istanbul vs Paris: questions

Is Istanbul or Paris cheaper?+

Istanbul is generally the more affordable of the two. Budget roughly $130/day for Istanbul and €156/day for Paris for a mid-range trip, before flights.

Istanbul or Paris, which has better weather?+

Istanbul is best in June, July, August, while Paris shines in May, June, September. Pick the one whose ideal window matches your travel dates.

Should I visit Istanbul or Paris first?+

Pick the one that matches the trip you want. The comparison above is a start. Then plan whichever you choose.

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