A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ephesus vs. Tartu for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Ephesus or Tartu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ephesus or Tartu, 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

Ephesus is a fascinating, ancient, and world-renowned archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Ephesus travel costs.

Tartu

Tartu is a student-oriented, cultural, and historical university town. Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Ephesus and Tartu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ephesus or Tartu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ephesus than Tartu. While Tartu is larger than Ephesus, Ephesus has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ephesus is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping, while Tartu is known for its nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Ephesus is more touristy than Tartu and is known for its well-preserved ruins and vast size It is also home to the Library of Celsus. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Ephesus different from Tartu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ephesus or Tartu?

Ephesus is an amazing archeological site to visit for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Ephesus has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ephesus or Tartu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ephesus is a archeological site with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ephesus is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for Nightlife?

Tartu is a great university town for nightlife and partying. However, Ephesus is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Tartu has something for everybody. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

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.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for its Old Town?

Tartu is a great university town for its old town. However, Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Tartu to see the historical old town. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ephesus or Tartu?

Ephesus is a archeological site with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Ephesus has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Ephesus or Tartu More Beautiful?

Tartu is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for Families?

Ephesus and Tartu are both good 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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for Couples?

Ephesus is a archeological site with good options for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu is a great university town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

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.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for Students?

Tartu is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Ephesus is not popular with students.

Tartu is a great destination for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Ephesus is not popular with students.

Is Ephesus or Tartu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ephesus is a great archeological site for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Ephesus. 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.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Ephesus or Tartu a more walkable city?

Tartu is a great university town 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.

Tartu is a very walkable university town. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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 Tartu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tartu or Ephesus?

How long in Ephesus or Tartu?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tartu 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 Tartu.

One day in Ephesus or Tartu?

In Ephesus, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this ancient destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Tartu, you'll find nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This university town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Ephesus or Tartu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ephesus. 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.

In Tartu, you'll find nightlife. 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 Tartu has to offer.

Five days in Ephesus or Tartu?

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

Tartu is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ephesus or Tartu?

You'll find food and shopping around the ancient destination of Ephesus. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tartu. Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Tartu. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, and The Best Budget Tours to Estonia.

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

Which is Bigger, Ephesus or Tartu?

Tartu has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Ephesus. When comparing the sizes of Ephesus and Tartu, 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 Ephesus or Tartu?

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 Ephesus or Tartu in the Summer?

Both Tartu and Ephesus are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ephesus this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ephesus is much warmer than Tartu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ephesus in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Tartu averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Tartu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ephesus. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during summer. Ephesus gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Tartu. Ephesus gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ephesus or Tartu in the Autumn?

Both Tartu and Ephesus during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Ephesus for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Tartu in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ephesus is generally much warmer than Tartu. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 19°C (66°F), and Tartu fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite sunny in Ephesus. In the autumn, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Ephesus gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 86 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in October than Tartu. Ephesus gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ephesus or Tartu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ephesus and Tartu. Many visitors come to Ephesus in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Tartu can be very cold during winter. Ephesus is much warmer than Tartu in the winter. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Tartu fluctuates around -7°C (19°F).

Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during winter. Ephesus gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 36 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 Tartu. Ephesus gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ephesus or Tartu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ephesus as well as Tartu. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Tartu because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Tartu can be very cold. In the spring, Ephesus is much warmer than Tartu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ephesus in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Tartu averages at about 5°C (41°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 Tartu. Ephesus gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 180 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Tartu. Ephesus gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tartu and Ephesus