BeirutvsIstanbul
Can't decide between Beirut and Istanbul? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Beirut
Beirut is the resilient heart of the Middle East, a city that has reinvented itself countless times. Known as the Paris of the East, it offers ancient Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, French-mandate architecture, legendary nightlife, and some of the best food in the Mediterranean.
Known for
Istanbul
Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, offering a mesmerizing blend of ancient empires and modern energy. This transcontinental metropolis enchants with Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, bustling bazaars, and a food scene that spans two continents.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Beirut offers National Museum of Beirut, Pigeon Rocks at Raouché, Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
Istanbul offers Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar
Food & Dining
Beirut is famous for its local dining scene
Istanbul is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Beirut has legendary nightlife
Istanbul offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
April to May, September to November
Weather
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 14°C
Summer: 28°C, Winter: 8°C
Top Attractions in Beirut
- 1National Museum of Beirut
- 2Pigeon Rocks at Raouché
- 3Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
- 4Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael
- 5Byblos (day trip)
- 6Corniche Beirut
Top Attractions in Istanbul
- 1Hagia Sophia
- 2Blue Mosque
- 3Grand Bazaar
- 4Topkapi Palace
- 5Bosphorus Cruise
- 6Basilica Cistern
Beirut is Popular With
Istanbul is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Beirut
- 1
AUB Archaeological Museum
A small but exquisite museum on the American University of Beirut campus, housing one of the region's most important collections of Levantine artifacts.
- 2
Bourj Hammoud Flea Market
A sprawling, chaotic market district across the river from Achrafieh, known as Beirut's 'Little Armenia'.
Hidden Gems in Istanbul
- 1
Süleymaniye Mosque Complex
An architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, perched on one of Istanbul's seven hills.
- 2
Balat & Fener
Colorful, historic neighborhoods on the Golden Horn, once home to large Greek, Jewish, and Armenian communities.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Beirut
Gemmayzeh & Mar Mikhael
The epicenter of Beirut's hipster renaissance, these adjacent districts are a maze of narrow streets, Ottoman-era houses, and vibrant street art.
Downtown (Solidere)
The meticulously reconstructed city center, a blend of archaeological sites and ultra-modern architecture.
Top Areas in Istanbul
Sultanahmet
The historic heart of Istanbul, home to its most iconic monuments.
Beyoğlu & Galata
The modern, European center of Istanbul, pulsing with energy.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Beirut
Budget in Istanbul
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Beirut
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Istanbul
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Beirut
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Find cheap transport to Istanbul
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Our Verdict
Both Beirut and Istanbul are incredible destinations. Beirut excels in mezze cuisine and nightlife, while Istanbul stands out for historic mosques and bazaars.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Beirut
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