Which place is cheaper, Florence or Ephesus?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ephesus or Florence, 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.
Ephesus is a world-renowned, fascinating, and ancient archeological site. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Ephesus travel costs.
Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Florence travel costs.
You'll generally find more things to do in Florence than Ephesus. Florence is bigger than Ephesus, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ephesus is well known for its well-preserved ruins and vast size Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence and Ephesus. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Ephesus and Florence.
The museums and tourist attractions in Ephesus are world-renowned. Of course, the iconic site is the ruins of Ephesus. There are also several fascinating museums in the area that offer deeper insights into the region's rich history and culture. The Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk is popular. It has an impressive collection of artifacts excavated from the ancient city, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions. Just outside the museum, the Temple of Artemis section displays remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Selçuk Museum of Ephesus is another excellent spot to explore, with exhibits that highlight both the daily life of ancient Ephesians and their religious practices. A short drive from Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary museum, a revered site believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, with a chapel and peaceful surroundings. Lastly, the İsa Bey Mosque and Museum in Selçuk adds to the area's historical depth, offering a glimpse into the Seljuk architecture and Islamic heritage of the region.
You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Florence on the map. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.
Florence is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.
There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ephesus area. Most of the food options are found in the nearby town of Selçuk. Popular dishes include kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread pizza). Many restaurants are casual and cater specifically to the tourist crowds.
Florence is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Ephesus is not known for its evening party scene.
If you're looking for night time activities Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.
Most people don't head to Ephesus specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The there are a couple of bars and restaurants with live music in the town of Selçuk, but generally the nightlife is very low key.
Florence is renowned for its old town. However, Ephesus does not have a historic old town.
The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.
Ephesus does not have a historic old town.
Florence is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its shopping areas.
Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.
Many visitors go to Ephesus to go shopping. Selçuk has a variety of local shops and markets. Traditional handicrafts such as carpet and kilim weaving, ceramics, and leather goods are popular souvenirs. The Selçuk Market is held on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, spices, and other local products.
Florence is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.
Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.
Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.
Ephesus and Florence are both notable destinations for the whole family.
Ephesus offers lots of family activities. Kids who are into history or archeology will enjoy a visit to the famed ruins of Ephesus. There's also the Ephesus Archaeological Museum where everyone can learn about ancient Greek and Roman cultures in an interactive setting. The nearby House of the Virgin Mary offers a peaceful stop where kids can learn about its historical and religious significance in a tranquil environment. For an active experience, families can enjoy a short hike to Pamucak Beach, where children can swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.
Florence is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for couples.
Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.
Ephesus is a good archeological site for couples to visit. Many couples stop off at these ruins as part of a bigger tour of Turkey. The ruins are well preserved and impressive, but can get crowded if you visit during the peak times.
Florence is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.
With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.
Ephesus is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has several hostels. This is also where you'll find a number of restaurants and shopping opportunities.
Florence is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Ephesus is not popular with students.
Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.
Ephesus is not popular with students.
Ephesus is a great archeological site for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.
Public transit in Ephesus can get you to some places easily. The town of Selçuk is well-connected by dolmuşes (shared minivans) that run frequently and offer affordable rides to nearby destinations, including Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Pamucak Beach area.
Florence has a few public transit options. The city has a comprehensive bus system.
Florence is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its ease of walking around.
Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.
Ephesus is a somewhat walkable archeological site. The ruins are spread out over a large area, but most of the key sites, like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, are within walking distance of each other. From Selçuk, it's about a half hour walk to the entrance of the Ephesus ruins, but most visitors prefer to take a short taxi or dolmuş ride to the site. Within Selçuk, many of the sites can be reached on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Ephesus Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.
Both Ephesus and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Ephesus. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ephesus, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.
Families should spend more time in Florence than Ephesus. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Florence, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Florence than Ephesus. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Florence that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Ephesus 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 Florence.
The archeological site of Ephesus offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
In Florence, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Ephesus is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this archeological site makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ephesus, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
In Florence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer.
Ephesus is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.
Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
Ephesus is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site offers something for everyone.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.
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 Ephesus is $131, while the average daily cost in Florence is $211. 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 Ephesus and Florence in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Ephesus or Florence? 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.
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.
Also for Ephesus, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Florence:
Also for Florence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Florence and Ephesus 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.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ephesus:
For Ephesus, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Florence:
For Florence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ephesus.
For Florence, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Florence.
Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Ephesus from other travelers:
Also in Ephesus, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florence from other travelers:
Also in Florence, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ephesus and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. And not only is Ephesus much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ephesus would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ephesus 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence than you might in Ephesus.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ephesus Expensive? and Is Florence Expensive?.
Florence has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Ephesus. When comparing the sizes of Ephesus and Florence, 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.
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.
Both Florence and Ephesus are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Ephesus because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.
Ephesus is around the same temperature as Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
It's quite sunny in Florence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ephesus. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Florence during summer. Ephesus gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Florence. Ephesus gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Florence and Ephesus during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Ephesus this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Ephesus is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ephesus in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).
It's quite sunny in Ephesus. In the autumn, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Florence. Ephesus gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.
Ephesus usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Ephesus gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ephesus and Florence. Many travelers come to Ephesus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In January, Ephesus is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 10°C (50°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).
Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Ephesus gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.
Ephesus gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Ephesus usually receives more rain than Florence. Ephesus gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Ephesus as well as Florence. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.
Ephesus is around the same temperature as Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ephesus this time of the year. In the spring, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Florence. Ephesus gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.
Ephesus usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Ephesus gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.
Ephesus | Florence | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 10°C (50°F) | 149 mm (5.9 in) | 7°C (45°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
Feb | 10°C (50°F) | 103 mm (4.1 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
Mar | 12°C (53°F) | 86 mm (3.4 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 69 mm (2.7 in) |
Apr | 15°C (59°F) | 32 mm (1.3 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
May | 19°C (67°F) | 16 mm (0.6 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
Jun | 24°C (75°F) | 3 mm (0.1 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
Jul | 27°C (81°F) | 1 mm (0 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 31 mm (1.2 in) |
Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 1 mm (0 in) | 24°C (75°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Sep | 24°C (75°F) | 23 mm (0.9 in) | 21°C (70°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Oct | 19°C (66°F) | 29 mm (1.1 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 96 mm (3.8 in) |
Nov | 14°C (58°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
Dec | 12°C (53°F) | 164 mm (6.5 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |