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

Should you visit Arachova or Izmir?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Izmir, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Arachova travel costs.

Izmir

Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food. See Izmir travel costs.

Arachova and Izmir: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Arachova or Izmir?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Izmir are both popular with visitors, Arachova has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Izmir is known for its big city activities. Arachova is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also home to Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Izmir is popular for

How is Arachova different from Izmir?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Izmir Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Izmir is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Izmir is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Arachova
Izmir

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Izmir can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Izmir has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Is Arachova or Izmir Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Izmir

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

The people in Arachova know how to have a good time. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Arachova or Izmir Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Izmir does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.

Is Arachova or Izmir Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Izmir is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Izmir is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Izmir?

Arachova
Izmir

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

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Arachova or Izmir Better for Families?

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova and Izmir are both great destinations for the whole family.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Izmir is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Arachova or Izmir Better for Couples?

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova is a great destination for romance. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Izmir makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Arachova or Izmir Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Izmir

Izmir is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Izmir. 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


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

Arachova
Izmir

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

Public transit in Izmir is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Arachova or Izmir a more walkable city?

Arachova
Izmir

Arachova and Izmir both are good when exploring on foot.

Arachova is somewhat walkable. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

Izmir is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Izmir?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Izmir. In our opinion, Arachova has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arachova than Izmir. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arachova than Izmir 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 Arachova.


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

One day in Arachova or Izmir?


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In Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The of Izmir offers food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Izmir?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Izmir, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Izmir?


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Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Izmir is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Izmir?


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You'll find museums and skiing around the bustling destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Izmir is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul.


Which place is cheaper, Izmir or Arachova?

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 Arachova is €133, 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 Arachova and Izmir in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Izmir 40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Izmir 80
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Izmir

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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: Izmir Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    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: $55
  • Arrival Transfer Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Izmir by Minibus: $61
  • Ayvalık to Izmir International Airport (ADB) - Departure Private Transfer: $61
  • 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

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Izmir?

Prices for flights to both Izmir and Arachova 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
    Arachova 51
    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 Cuisine Cooking Class in İzmir: $59
  • Authentic Turkish Home Cooking Class with Locals: $76
  • Izmir to Aphrodisias: Cooking & Ceramics Class: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Izmir 14

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

  • Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $30
  • Guided Walking Tour of Teos Ancient City and Sığacık Castle: $32
  • Izmir : Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour: $53
  • Ephesus Ancient City with Best Guides Only For Cruise Guests: $59
  • private Ephesus the House of the Virgin Mary Tour from Izmir : $64
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Ephesus Tour: $66
  • Private Ephesus Tour from Izmir Port and Hotels : $67
  • PRIVATE EPHESUS & MARY'S HOUSE TOUR from Izmir Cruise Port: $69
  • Izmir City Tour: $84
  • From Ephesus, Artemis Temple Tour with Tickets/Lunch: $84
  • From Ephesus, Artemis Temple Tour WITH ENTRY TICKETS+LUNCH: $85

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Izmir 5.91

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

  • Wine Tour with Metropolis Ancient City: $126
  • Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey: $132


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Izmir, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Izmir Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Izmir?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 630 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Izmir in the Summer?

Both Izmir and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Izmir in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Izmir in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Izmir fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

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

In July, Arachova usually receives more rain than Izmir. Arachova 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
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Izmir 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Izmir in the Autumn?

Both Izmir and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Izmir for the city's sights and attractions during these months.

In the autumn, Arachova is around the same temperature as Izmir. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arachova in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Izmir averages at about 19°C (67°F).

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

Arachova usually gets more rain in October than Izmir. Arachova 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
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Izmir 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Izmir in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Izmir. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Izmir because of the cuisine.

In January, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Izmir. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Izmir fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Izmir during winter. Arachova 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, Arachova usually receives less rain than Izmir. Arachova 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
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Izmir 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Izmir in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Izmir. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Izmir this time of year.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Izmir in the spring. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Izmir fluctuates around 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Izmir. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 231 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Izmir. Arachova 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
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Izmir 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Izmir and Arachova

Arachova 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)