IstanbulvsPlovdiv
Can't decide between Istanbul and Plovdiv? 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
Plovdiv
Plovdiv is one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, built on seven hills with a layered history spanning 8,000 years. The beautifully restored Old Town, a Roman amphitheatre still hosting performances, and a vibrant arts scene earned it 2019 European Capital of Culture.
Known for
Plane deine Istanbul or Plovdiv-Reise
Erstelle einen personalisierten Istanbul or Plovdiv-Reiseplan mit KI. Beschreibe einfach deinen Reisestil und wir erledigen den Rest.
Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Istanbul offers Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar
Plovdiv offers Ancient Roman Theatre, Old Town (Stari Grad), Kapana Creative District
Food & Dining
Istanbul is famous for its local dining scene
Plovdiv is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Istanbul offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Plovdiv offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
May to October
Weather
Summer: 28°C, Winter: 8°C
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 3°C
Top Attractions in Istanbul
- 1Hagia Sophia
- 2Blue Mosque
- 3Grand Bazaar
- 4Topkapi Palace
- 5Bosphorus Cruise
- 6Basilica Cistern
Top Attractions in Plovdiv
- 1Ancient Roman Theatre
- 2Old Town (Stari Grad)
- 3Kapana Creative District
- 4Regional Ethnographic Museum
- 5Alyosha Monument
- 6Bachkovo Monastery (day trip)
Istanbul is Popular With
Plovdiv is Popular With
Geheimtipps
Entdecken Sie weniger bekannte Attraktionen in jeder Stadt
Geheimtipps 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.
Geheimtipps in Plovdiv
- 1
The Small Basilica Archaeological Site
An incredibly well-preserved 5th-century early Christian basilica located in the heart of the city, now housed within a modern protective building.
- 2
Lavina Bookstore & Cafe
A sprawling, multi-level bookstore in an old factory building in the Kapana district, with a cozy cafe tucked inside.
Viertel zum Erkunden
Entdecken Sie die besten Gegenden in jeder Stadt
Top-Gegenden 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-Gegenden in Plovdiv
Stari Grad (Old Town)
The historic heart of Plovdiv, perched on three of the city's hills.
Kapana (The Trap) Creative District
A once-neglected artisan quarter transformed into Plovdiv's vibrant creative and nightlife epicenter.
Budgetvergleich
Vergleichen Sie die Reisekosten in jeder Stadt
Budget in Istanbul
Budget in Plovdiv
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Aktivitäten in Istanbul buchen
Warteschlangen überspringen mit vorgebuchten Touren und Attraktionen
Aktivitäten in Plovdiv buchen
Warteschlangen überspringen mit vorgebuchten Touren und Attraktionen
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Günstige Anreise nach Istanbul
Vergleiche Preise für Züge, Busse und Flüge nach Istanbul
Gib deine Abfahrtsstadt ein, um Preise zu sehen
Günstige Anreise nach Plovdiv
Vergleiche Preise für Züge, Busse und Flüge nach Plovdiv
Gib deine Abfahrtsstadt ein, um Preise zu sehen
Our Verdict
Both Istanbul and Plovdiv are incredible destinations. Istanbul excels in historic mosques and bazaars, while Plovdiv stands out for Roman amphitheatre and oldest city in Europe.
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