IstanbulvsRome
Can't decide between Istanbul and Rome? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
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
Rome
The Eternal City is an open-air museum where ancient ruins stand alongside Renaissance masterpieces and baroque fountains. Rome offers an intoxicating mix of history, art, and la dolce vita, from the Colosseum to cozy trattorias serving authentic Italian cuisine.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Istanbul offers Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar
Rome offers Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain
Food & Dining
Istanbul is famous for its local dining scene
Rome is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Istanbul offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Rome offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
April to June, September to October
Weather
Summer: 28°C, Winter: 8°C
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 10°C
Top Attractions in Istanbul
- 1Hagia Sophia
- 2Blue Mosque
- 3Grand Bazaar
- 4Topkapi Palace
- 5Bosphorus Cruise
- 6Basilica Cistern
Top Attractions in Rome
- 1Colosseum
- 2Vatican City
- 3Trevi Fountain
- 4Roman Forum
- 5Pantheon
- 6Spanish Steps
Istanbul is Popular With
Rome is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
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.
Hidden Gems in Rome
- 1
Aventine Keyhole (Buco della Serratura)
A keyhole in the door of the Knights of Malta priory that perfectly frames St.
- 2
Centrale Montemartini
Ancient Roman sculptures displayed among the machinery of Rome's first power plant—a stunning contrast of industrial and classical.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
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.
Top Areas in Rome
Trastevere
Rome's most romantic neighborhood winds through cobblestone alleys, past ivy-covered trattorias, and around intimate piazzas.
Centro Storico
The historic heart where ancient temples, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque churches compete for attention.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Istanbul
Budget in Rome
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Istanbul
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Rome
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Istanbul
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Istanbul
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Find cheap transport to Rome
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Rome
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Our Verdict
Both Istanbul and Rome are incredible destinations. Istanbul excels in historic mosques and bazaars, while Rome stands out for ancient history and Italian cuisine.
Best destination for:
art lovers
Rome
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