A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Izmir for Food, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Aegina or Izmir?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aegina or Izmir? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a fun, active, and relaxing island. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Aegina travel costs.

Izmir

Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food. See Izmir travel costs.

Aegina and Izmir: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Aegina or Izmir?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aegina than Izmir, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aegina is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Izmir is more popular for its food and big city activities. Aegina is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Also, Aegina is famous for the Temple of Athena Aphaia. Izmir is well known for

How is Aegina different from Izmir?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Izmir and Aegina. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Izmir?

Aegina
Izmir

Aegina is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Aegina. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Aegina or Izmir? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aegina
Izmir

Izmir is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Izmir is an experience not to be missed. Located on the coast, the city is known for its fresh seafood like grilled fish, calamari, and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). Kumru, a local sandwich made with sesame-crusted bread and filled with sucuk or cheese, is a must-try street food. Also popular are meze, which are small plates of appetizers like hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and zeytinyağlılar (vegetables cooked in olive oil).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Izmir Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Izmir

Aegina is a great destination for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The people in Aegina know how to have a good time. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Aegina or Izmir Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Izmir

Aegina is a good destination for its beaches. However, Izmir is not a beach destination.

Aegina offers a nice beach destination. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Izmir is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Izmir?

Aegina
Izmir

Aegina is a good destination for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Aegina is a great destination for shopping. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Aegina or Izmir Better for Families?

Aegina
Izmir

Izmir is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Izmir is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. A visit to Kültürpark, a large park in the city center, is perfect for children to enjoy playgrounds, open spaces, and even a small amusement park. The Izmir Wildlife Park, located just outside the city, is another great spot, where kids can explore and interact with a variety of animals in a natural setting. For an educational experience, the Izmir Natural History Museum provides fascinating exhibits on local wildlife and natural science. Families will also enjoy taking a boat ride on the Izmir Bay or visiting the Aqua City Water Park.

Aegina offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Is Aegina or Izmir Better for Couples?

Aegina
Izmir

With fun activities for couples, both Aegina and Izmir make for a notable place to visit.

Aegina is a good island for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Izmir is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy walking along the scenic Kordon promenade at sunset or having a drink at a local cafe. You can also explore the Kadifekale Castle, which offers panoramic views of Izmir and is another great spot for watching the sunset together. Also popular is taking a boat tour around Izmir Bay, which lets you see the city from a different perspective.


Is Aegina or Izmir Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Izmir

Izmir is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Izmir is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular stop off for backpackers who enjoy the cultural scene around town. There are many hostels to choose from, particularly in areas like Konak and Alsancak.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Aegina or Izmir Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aegina
Izmir

Izmir is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Izmir offers a very effecient public transportation network. The public transit system is diverse and includes a metro with two lines, buses, ferries, and dolmuses (shared minibuses). In general, the system is reliable and affordable.

While Aegina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

Is Aegina or Izmir a more walkable city?

Aegina
Izmir

Aegina and Izmir both are notable when exploring on foot.

Aegina is a somewhat walkable island. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

Izmir is somewhat walkable. Some of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods include Konak, Alsancak, and Kordon where you can easily walk between attractions, cafés, shops, and parks. The Kordon waterfront promenade is a popular place for strolling, jogging, or simply relaxing.


Should I spend more time in Izmir or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Izmir?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aegina and Izmir. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Izmir than in Aegina. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-3 days is enough time in Izmir.

Families should spend more time in Izmir than Aegina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Izmir, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Aegina than Izmir. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aegina that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Izmir than Aegina if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Izmir.


  • How many days in Aegina or Izmir? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aegina 1-2 
    Izmir 2-3

One day in Aegina or Izmir?


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In Aegina, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Aegina or Izmir?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aegina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Izmir is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Aegina or Izmir?


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Aegina is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Aegina. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Izmir. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Aegina or Izmir?


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You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Aegina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul.


Which place is cheaper, Izmir or Aegina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €117, while the average daily cost in Izmir is €82. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aegina and Izmir in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Izmir 40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Izmir 80
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Izmir

Looking for a hotel in Aegina or Izmir? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aegina


Hotels in Izmir


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aegina Hotel Prices and Izmir Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Izmir 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • Izmir Airport - Kusadasi Private Transfer: $120
  • Antalya Airport AYT Transfers to Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels: $251
  • Arrival Transfer Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport ADB to Izmir by Van: $56
  • Balikesir Airport Transfers to Balikesir Edremit Hotels: $113
  • Balikesir Ayvalik Hotels to Balikesir Airport Transfers: $113
  • Balikesir Edremit Hotels to Balikesir Airport Transfers: $113
  • Bodrum Airport Private Minivan By Meet Transfer : $42
  • Bodrum Akyaka Hotels to Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers: $161
  • Canakkale Airport Transfers to Lapseki Hotels: $113
  • Dalaman Airport Transfer Private and Comfortable : $45
  • Ephesus Guided Tour From Izmir With Lunch & Hotel Transfer: $130
  • Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels to Antalya Airport AYT Transfers: $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Aegina or Izmir?

Prices for flights to both Izmir and Aegina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aegina 59
    Izmir 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Izmir

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Izmir.

  • Authentic Turkish Home Cooking Class with Locals: $76
  • Izmir to Aphrodisias: Cooking & Ceramics Class: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Izmir 14

Tours and Activities in Izmir

Here are a few actual costs in Izmir for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided Walking Tour of Teos Ancient City and Sığacık Castle: $32
  • Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $42
  • Izmir : Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour: $53
  • Ephesus Ancient City with Best Guides Only For Cruise Guests: $59
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Private Ephesus Tour from Izmir Port and Hotels : $67
  • PRIVATE EPHESUS & MARY'S HOUSE TOUR from Izmir Cruise Port: $69
  • From Ephesus, Artemis Temple Tour with Tickets/Lunch: $84
  • Izmir City Tour: $84
  • From Ephesus, Artemis Temple Tour WITH ENTRY TICKETS+LUNCH: $85
  • From Pamukkale, Hierapolis and Karahayit Day Tour: $88
  • Izmir City Tour : $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aegina 8.57
    Izmir 5.91

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

  • Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey: $131


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and Izmir, we can see that Aegina is more expensive. And not only is Izmir much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Izmir would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Izmir and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aegina would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aegina than you might in Izmir.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aegina Expensive? and Is Izmir Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aegina or Izmir?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Izmir, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Aegina or Izmir?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aegina or Izmir in the Summer?

Both Izmir and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aegina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Izmir because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aegina is around the same temperature as Izmir. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aegina in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Izmir averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Izmir during summer. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Izmir receives 378 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aegina usually receives more rain than Izmir. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Izmir 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Izmir in the Autumn?

Both Izmir and Aegina during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Aegina because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Izmir this time of year.

In October, Aegina is generally around the same temperature as Izmir. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 19°C (67°F), and Izmir fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the autumn, Aegina often gets less sunshine than Izmir. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 232 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets more rain in October than Izmir. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Izmir 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Izmir in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Izmir. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Izmir for the cuisine.

Aegina is a little warmer than Izmir in the winter. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Izmir fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Izmir during winter. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Izmir receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

Izmir receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Aegina usually receives less rain than Izmir. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Izmir 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Izmir in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Izmir. Many travelers come to Aegina for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Izmir in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Aegina is around the same temperature as Izmir. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aegina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Izmir averages at about 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the spring, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Izmir. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 231 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in April than Izmir. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Izmir 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Izmir and Aegina

Aegina Izmir
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in)