Istanbul is a high-energy city known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Istanbul, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Istanbul?
You should plan to spend around $140 (TRY4,813) per day on your vacation in Istanbul. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $51 (TRY1,745) on meals
- $52 (TRY1,781) on local transportation
- $89 (TRY3,071) on hotels
A one week trip to Istanbul for two people costs, on average, $1,962 (TRY67,382). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$981
TRY33,691
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,962
TRY67,382
-
One Month
Per person
$4,205
TRY144,390
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,962
TRY67,382
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$3,924
TRY134,764
-
One Month
For a couple
$8,409
TRY288,780
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Istanbul cost?
A one week trip to Istanbul usually costs around $981 (TRY33,691) for one person and $1,962 (TRY67,382) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Istanbul on average costs around $1,962 (TRY67,382) for one person and $3,924 (TRY134,764) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Istanbul will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Istanbul on average costs around $4,205 (TRY144,390) for one person and $8,409 (TRY288,780) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Istanbul expensive to visit?
Istanbul is a vibrant and expansive city that is famous worldwide. Thanks to its charm, it welcomes a diverse crowd of travelers, whether they're looking to splurge or save. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Istanbul can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $57 (TRY1,951) per day, mid-range travelers spend $140 (TRY4,813) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $334 (TRY11,453) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Istanbul.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Istanbul is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Nantes or Delphi.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Istanbul Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Istanbul?
The average Istanbul trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Istanbul travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Istanbul cost?
Istanbul on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$20
(TRY676)
|
$45
(TRY1,536)
|
$84
(TRY2,876)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$18
(TRY615)
|
$52
(TRY1,781)
|
$169
(TRY5,795)
|
|
Food 2
|
$21
(TRY720)
|
$51
(TRY1,745)
|
$115
(TRY3,963)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$29
(TRY988)
|
$75
(TRY2,566)
|
$200
(TRY6,865)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-9
(TRY98-293)
|
$7-21
(TRY240-721)
|
$16-49
(TRY567-1,700)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Istanbul is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $57 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, you'll find plenty of hostels in Istanbul, such as Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel, Cheers Hostel, and Second Home Hostel. These hostels provide inexpensive dormitory lodging and a friendly atmosphere, but amenities are quite limited. In addition, the city features a fantastic public transit system that helps budget-conscious travelers steer clear of pricey taxi or Uber rides. Dining is a highlight for all types of visitors in Istanbul, but budget travelers typically settle for street food or hostel meals, meaning they may not fully enjoy the delightful local cuisine.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Visitors to Istanbul typically prioritize the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks during their stay. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $140 per person, per day.
Istanbul offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. White House Hotel Istanbul is an excellent choice, while Stories Hotel Kumbaraci is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Istanbul.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $334 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the city with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Istanbul City and Hidden Gem Private Guided Tour 1, 2, 3 Day opt. - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Istanbul
Istanbul has a wide range of hotel prices. Luxury hotels come with higher price tags and better amenities, and prices are much steeper during peak season. On average, a room costs $49 in the off-season and averages $91 during peak summer season. Overall, you can expect prices from $30 to $166. Hostels, especially dorms, are cheaper alternatives. You can save by traveling in the low season, booking in advance, or looking for special offers.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Istanbul for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $89 (TRY3,071). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $45 (TRY1,536) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Istanbul? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Istanbul include:
- Stories Hotel Kumbaraci starting at $46
- Romance Istanbul Hotel Boutique Class starting at $79
- Faik Pasha Suites Special Category starting at $82
- Tria Hotel Istanbul-Special Category starting at $67
- Ada Palas Hotel Buyukada starting at $66
In Istanbul, a large city, you'll discover a wealth of accommodation choices. From hostels like Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel to inviting vacation rentals and luxurious hotels, there's something to suit all preferences. Keep in mind that accommodations in the city center are usually more costly, but they offer convenient access to public transit and many tourist attractions.
Thanks to Istanbul's great public transportation, you can stay outside the city for cheaper accommodations, but be aware of the potential for increased transportation costs and commute time.
If you're traveling to Istanbul with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy. In such a big city, it's not uncommon for rooms to be small and a bit tight on space.
Visitors often spend a week in Istanbul. If you're planning to stay for a while, consider getting a vacation rental with a kitchen so you can cook your own meals.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than summer, will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.
Walking is a favorite way for many to see Istanbul, so look for lodging in a prime location. Keep in mind, though, that this can raise your expenses.
The city's alluring old town pulls in numerous visitors. Although hotels in this area can be more expensive, they typically offer plenty of charm and convenient access to nearby attractions.
Transportation Budget in Istanbul
Getting around in Istanbul, a big city, is essential, and the good news is that Istanbul offers excellent public transportation. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more. For budget-conscious travelers, public transit is a great option, though taxis and rideshares are always an option if you need them.
For those who enjoy foot exploration, this destination is perfect. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.
Public Transit: 
(excellent)
Walkability: 
(great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $52 (TRY1,781) per person, per day, on local transportation in Istanbul. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Istanbul is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$52
TRY1,781
When planning to use public transit frequently, don't overlook the potential savings of multi-day transit passes.
Keep an eye out for pickpockets while using the buses and trains, especially in the stations. After all, Istanbul is a large city.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Istanbul Camlica Tower: Private Entry, Transfer & Dine Choices for $38 details
- İstanbul Private Arrival Transfer for $55 details
- VIP Daily Transfer from the Istanbul Airport to Istanbul City for $75 details
How much does it cost to go to Istanbul? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Istanbul will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Typical prices for transit in Istanbul are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Istanbul. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
-
Ferry
TRY2.80
-
Local Bus
TRY3.00
Food Budget in Istanbul
With its world-class cuisine, Istanbul is a food lover's paradise. Make it a priority to eat at local restaurants and try their standout dishes. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Istanbul can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Istanbul is $51 (TRY1,745) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$51
TRY1,745
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Istanbul is around $51 (TRY1745) per person, with previous travelers spending from $21 to $116. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Istanbul are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $15
- Lunch: $8 to $20
- Dinner: $15 to $36
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
As you walk around Istanbul, restaurant employees will do their best to persuade you to come into their restaurant. This is particularly true in the touristy areas. They are generally friendly and welcoming, so a smile as you decline can go a long way. If you're trying to figure out where to eat in Istanbul, there are plenty of affordable restaurants and fast food options in the city. Many of the restaurants in Sultanahmet are geared towards tourists. Taksim has some wonderful restaurants that are upscale in style but still reasonably price. Affordable food options include doner, hamsi and kumpir. Pastry shops are spread throughout the city and have some very delicious desserts that are reasonably priced. Look for one with a rooftop patio so you can enjoy a view of the city at night.
If you choose to eat at nicer restaurants for lunch instead of dinner, you can save some money. Many dining spots in tourist areas or business centers have lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are usually just scaled-down and cheaper versions of their dinner offerings. You might even find a full multi-course gourmet meal at a great price if you know where to look. For dinner, just opt for something light.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.
Why not save some bucks and enjoy the sights by having a picnic? Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful spot to enjoy your meal.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also a great way to reduce waste.
If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Istanbul, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Istanbul - Europe and Asia Private and Guided Food Tour. For $198 details
- Authentic Homemade Turkish Breakfast Cooking with Local Friends for $55 details
- Istanbul Evening Food Tour: The Best Bites of Taksim and Karaköy for $85 details
Food and meal prices in Istanbul, based on real travelers' reported expenses, are shown below. These typical costs can give you a sense of the overall price range for meals. However, your individual expenses might be different depending on your dining habits, restaurant choices, and specific orders.
-
Juice
TRY2.00
-
Turkish Delight
TRY0.60
-
Dessert
TRY8.50
-
Pastries
TRY1.50
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Istanbul
It's easy to see why people visit Istanbul, given its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Istanbul typically cost an average of $75 (TRY2,566) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$75
TRY2,566
Many of Istanbul's historic sights are found in Sultanahmet. These include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. Outside of this neighborhood there is also the Church of St. Savior in Chora, the Galata Tower, and the Galata Whirling Dervish Hall.
The Grand Bazaar is nearby, too. You shouldn't miss it, as this is a great place to go shopping in Istanbul. Even if you don't buy anything, it's a destination itself with plenty of cultural experiences.
Elsewhere in the city you can find other mosques open to the public, as well as tours and trips up the Bosphorus. For more details and ideas about what to do if you're in Istanbul for just a short time, check out this guide to visiting Istanbul in one day on a layover.
Hamams, or Turkish Baths, are great places to visit while you're in Istanbul. Most neighborhoods have at least one Hamam, but they each vary in cleanliness and quality, so ask around for a recommendation.
Another popular activity is smoking a hooka, or water pipe. There are a good number of places near the Grand Bazaar where you can smoke a hooka.
A Bosphorous Cruise is another great activity.The best option is to take the cruise offered by the state run company Sehir Hatlari. The cruise is 90 minutes each way or you can take a 2 hour non-stop cruise. During the peak season there are three daily departures, but it is still best to arrive early. You can buy tickets near the Eminonu terminal just east of the Galata Bridge.
And if you're looking for even more activities, check out this great 4-day itinerary for Istanbul which covers plenty of things to do.
Museums and Attractions:
When people think of Istanbul, they often think of its famous museums and landmarks. 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.
Historical Sights:
The historic old town area brings in many visitors. 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.
Shopping:
Shopping here is an enjoyable experience. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Istanbul. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Daily Ertugrul Tour from Istanbul for $232 details
- Splendid Istanbul Iconic Private Old City Tour for $52 details
- İstanbul Sightseeing Culture Tour for $150 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Istanbul are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Istanbul
The nightlife in Istanbul is fun and active, and visitors enjoy spending nights out at the local bars, clubs, and parties. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $14 (TRY481) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Istanbul per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$14
TRY481
While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're drinking at night. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so stick with trusted friends and avoid wandering alone.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Istanbul. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family for $90 details
- Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience for $27 details
- Istanbul Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus in Sultanahmet and Taksim for $28 details
Traveling in Istanbul
Istanbul
Istanbul is strategically located on the Bosphorus and is split between Europe and Asia. It truly is a city where east meets west. Istanbul is the cultural and financial hub of Turkey, and also the most populous city. The sites are countless and there's something for everybody, whether you're interested in art, music, food, or adventure. You can pass many days exploring both the residential and commercial pockets of this city. Much of the appeal is hidden away along back alleys or within corner shops.
The climate in Istanbul is temperate oceanic. The summers are hot and humid and the winters are cold and wet, with occasional snowfalls. There is a surprisingly high amount of rain in the city, more than that of London, Dublin, or Brussels. Rain is most common during the late fall and winter months. Spring and summer are the driest times of year, although there is no time that is considered a "dry" season. Summer months can be quite hot with average temperatures around 27 degrees during the day. Humidity makes it feel even hotter. Winter is cold and damp with temperatures reaching 7 degrees Celsius during the day.
Neighborhoods & Around
Sultanahmet is the Old City in Istanbul. This is where you will find most of the historic sights including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The New City is the main business center and has a much more modern atmosphere. There are many shopping areas and popular districts such as Elmadag, Nisantasi and Etiler. The Bosphorus is lined with beautiful palaces, parks, and mansions. Along the Bosphorus there are popular areas such as Besiktas and Ortakoy. Other neighborhoods include the Golden Horn, where you'll find Eyup, and Princes' Islands, which offers a wonderful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Related:
Looking for a party in
Athens or
Istanbul?
Traveling alone to
Athens or
Santorini?
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.