Germany
Turkey
Area Comparison
Berlin is 6.1x smaller than Istanbul
Population Comparison
Berlin has 4.2x fewer people than Istanbul
In terms of area, Istanbul is 6.1x the size of Berlin. Istanbul spans 5,461 km² (2,109 mi²) while Berlin covers 892 km² (344 mi²) — a difference of 4,569 km². You could fit Berlin inside Istanbul approximately 6 times.
To put Berlin's size in perspective, its area of 892 km² is about 1.1x the size of New York City. Meanwhile, Istanbul at 5,461 km² is about 1.2x smaller than Shanghai.
Germany's capital and largest city. Known as "The Grey City", Berlin covers 892 km² with a population of 3.6 million. The city was established in 1237. Berlin is known for Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall remnants, Museum Island, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the BVG (U-Bahn & S-Bahn).
Berlin has more bridges than Venice — over 1,700 compared to Venice's 400
Turkey's largest city, spanning Europe and Asia. Nicknamed "The City on Two Continents", Istanbul has an area of 5,461 km² and is home to 15.5 million people. The city dates back to 660 BC. Visitors come for Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Istanbul Metro.
Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents — Europe and Asia
Looking beyond city limits, the Istanbul metropolitan area covers 5,461 km², which is 1.5x larger than greater Berlin at 3,743 km². The Istanbul metro area is also more populous, with 15.5 million people compared to 6.1 million.
Berlin has a population density of 4,092 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Istanbul, with 2,831 people per km², is a moderately dense city. Both cities have comparable density, though Berlin is slightly more compact.
Both cities are in Europe, but they represent different national approaches to urban development. Berlin (Germany) and Istanbul (Turkey) offer a fascinating regional contrast.
Both cities share a oceanic climate, though local geography creates distinct microclimates in each. When it's noon in Istanbul, it's 10:00 AM in Berlin — a 2-hour time difference.
Size Ratio
Berlin fits inside Istanbul ~6 times
Density Gap
Berlin is 1.4x more densely populated
History
Istanbul is ~1,897 years older
The straight-line distance from Berlin to Istanbul is 1,738 km (1,080 miles), with an estimated flight time of ~2h 33m. See full distance details, including timezone difference and city facts.
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