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
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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
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
Joyas Ocultas
Descubre atracciones menos conocidas en cada ciudad
Joyas Ocultas en 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.
Joyas Ocultas en 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.
Barrios para Explorar
Descubre las mejores zonas para visitar en cada ciudad
Mejores Zonas en Istanbul
Sultanahmet
The historic heart of Istanbul, home to its most iconic monuments.
Beyoğlu & Galata
The modern, European center of Istanbul, pulsing with energy.
Mejores Zonas en 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.
Comparación de Presupuesto
Compara el coste de viajar en cada ciudad
Presupuesto en Istanbul
Presupuesto en Plovdiv
Book Activities
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Reserva Actividades en Istanbul
Salta la cola con tours y atracciones reservadas
Reserva Actividades en Plovdiv
Salta la cola con tours y atracciones reservadas
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Encuentra transporte barato a Istanbul
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Encuentra transporte barato a Plovdiv
Compara precios de trenes, autobuses y vuelos a Plovdiv
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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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