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Budapest vs Istanbul: which is cheaper?
For a mid-range week for two, Istanbul is about 0% cheaper (excluding flights).
| 7-day trip | Budapest | Istanbul |
|---|---|---|
| Backpacker (1 person) | $392 | $343 |
| Mid-range (2 people) | $1,680 | $1,680 |
| Comfort (2 people) | $4,620 | $4,900 |
Prices side by side
| Typical price (USD) | Budapest | Istanbul |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (mid-range room) | $90 | $80 |
| Hostel dorm bed | $22 | $18 |
| Food per day (mid-range) | $40 | $35 |
| Transport per day (mid-range) | $10 | $10 |
| Activities per day (mid-range) | $25 | $35 |
Best time to visit
Budapest: April to June and September to October. December has Christmas markets.
Istanbul: April to May and September to November. Summers are hot and crowded; winters are cool and rainy.
Budapest cost guide Istanbul cost guide
Estimates for planning, checked 2026-10-11. Flights are not included because they depend on where you fly from.