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

Should you visit Izmir or Arles?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Izmir and Arles. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. Arles is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Arles travel costs.

Izmir and Arles: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Izmir or Arles?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Arles than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than Arles, Arles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Arles is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Izmir is more popular for its big city activities. Arles is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. Also, Arles is famous for L'Amphithéâtre Romain. Izmir is well known for

How is Izmir different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Izmir
Arles

Arles is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Arles that are not to be missed. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Arles

Foodies will find both Izmir and Arles both to be high quality destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Izmir makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Arles has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Izmir or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Arles

Arles is a good destination for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Arles has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Izmir
Arles

Arles is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Izmir does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Arles?

Izmir
Arles

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

Arles is a great destination for shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Arles More Beautiful?

Izmir
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Arles is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This small city is famous for inspiring works by Vincent Van Gogh.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Izmir or Arles Better for Families?

Izmir
Arles

Izmir is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known 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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.


Is Izmir or Arles Better for Couples?

Izmir
Arles

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

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

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 Izmir or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Arles

Izmir is well known for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known 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.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

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

Izmir
Arles

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Izmir. 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 Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.


Is Izmir or Arles a more walkable city?

Izmir
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

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 Arles or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Izmir or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Izmir than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Izmir, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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


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

One day in Izmir or Arles?


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In Izmir, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. This 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.

In Arles, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this compact destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Izmir or Arles?


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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.


Five days in Izmir or Arles?


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

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

A week in Izmir or Arles?


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

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Izmir?

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 Izmir is $96, while the average daily cost in Arles is $210. 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 Izmir and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Arles $83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Arles $166
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Arles? 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 Izmir


Hotels in Arles


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 and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Arles $27

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $163
  • Private Driver taxi transfers Station and Airport: $167

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Izmir 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
    Izmir $33
    Arles $105

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

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    $5.28
  • Ice Cream
    $1.17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $16
    Arles $36

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    $6.45

Tours and Activities in Arles

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

  • Arles Vincent Van Gogh Walking Tour with an APP: $10
  • Historical Walking Tour of Ancient Arles with an APP: $13
  • Arles Vincent Van Gogh Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP: $13
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $128
  • Arles private tour - art/history and gastronomy: $176
  • Private Guide Tour - Explore History & Culture: $211
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $257
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $329

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Arles $28

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $9.40


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Arles?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Arles, 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 Izmir or Arles?

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 Izmir or Arles in the Summer?

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

In July, Izmir is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 28°C (82°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during summer. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than Arles. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Izmir during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Izmir in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, most visitors come to Arles for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Izmir is a little warmer than Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. In the autumn, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Arles. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Izmir usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Arles in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Izmir is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Izmir in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Izmir usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Izmir gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

Izmir gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Izmir usually receives more rain than Arles. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Arles. The spring months attract visitors to Izmir because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

In April, Izmir is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 16°C (61°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. In the spring, Izmir often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Izmir

Izmir Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)