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

Should you visit Izmir or Cesis?

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 Cesis. 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

It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food. See Izmir travel costs.

Cesis

Cesis is a small, authentic, and natural town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Cesis is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Izmir and Cesis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Izmir or Cesis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Izmir. Although Izmir and Cesis are popular destinations, Izmir has more sights and attractions for tourists. Izmir is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Cesis attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cesis is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes. Izmir is famous for It is also well known for .

How is Izmir different from Cesis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Izmir
Cesis

Izmir is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Izmir. 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).

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.


Is Izmir or Cesis Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Cesis

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

Things get quiet in the evenings in Cesis. The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Cesis Better for its Old Town?

Izmir
Cesis

Cesis is a town with a few options for its historic old town. However, Izmir does not have a historic old town.

Cesis is a good place to visit the old town. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.

Is Izmir or Cesis Better for Hiking?

Izmir
Cesis

Cesis is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Izmir is not a hiking destination.

Cesis offers some nice hiking trails. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Izmir is not a hiking destination.


Is Izmir or Cesis More Beautiful?

Izmir
Cesis

Cesis is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cesis is a gorgeous place to visit. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Izmir or Cesis Better for Families?

Izmir
Cesis

Izmir is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Izmir is a very kid-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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Izmir or Cesis Better for Couples?

Izmir
Cesis

Izmir and Cesis both nice destinations for a couple.

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.

Cesis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.


Is Izmir or Cesis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Cesis

Izmir is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Izmir is a great to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

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

Izmir
Cesis

Izmir is well known for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Izmir can get you to some places easily. 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Izmir or Cesis a more walkable city?

Izmir
Cesis

Izmir and Cesis both are nice when exploring on foot.

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.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.


Should I spend more time in Cesis or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Cesis?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Izmir or Cesis to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Izmir than Cesis 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 Cesis.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Izmir than Cesis 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 Izmir or Cesis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Izmir 2-3 
    Cesis 1-2

One day in Izmir or Cesis?


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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.

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Cesis?


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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 Cesis. 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.

Five days in Izmir or Cesis?


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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.

Cesis is a fun place to experience. Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Izmir or Cesis?


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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.

Cesis is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul.


Which place is cheaper, Cesis 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 Cesis is $162. 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 Cesis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Cesis $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Cesis $112
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Cesis

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Cesis? 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 Cesis


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.
    Izmir $23
    Cesis $35

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 Izmir or Cesis?

Prices for flights to both Cesis 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
    Cesis $84

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

Typical Food Prices in Cesis

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


  • Lunch in town for two
    $7.83

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $16
    Cesis $19

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
    Izmir $6.94
    Cesis $20

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 Izmir and Cesis, we can see that Cesis 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 Cesis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cesis 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 Cesis Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Cesis?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Cesis, 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 Cesis?

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 Cesis in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Izmir is much warmer than Cesis. Typically, the summer temperatures in Izmir in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Cesis averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than Cesis. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cesis receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Cesis 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Cesis in the Autumn?

Both Cesis and Izmir during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Izmir because of the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cesis this time of year.

In October, Izmir is generally much warmer than Cesis. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 19°C (67°F), and Cesis fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Izmir usually gets less rain in October than Cesis. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cesis receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Cesis 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Cesis in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Cesis. The cuisine are the main draw to Izmir this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cesis for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cesis. Izmir is much warmer than Cesis in the winter. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Cesis fluctuates around -5°C (23°F).

Izmir gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Izmir usually receives more rain than Cesis. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cesis receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Cesis -5°C (23°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Cesis in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Cesis. Many travelers come to Izmir for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Cesis in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Izmir is much warmer than Cesis. Typically, the spring temperatures in Izmir in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Cesis averages at about 5°C (42°F).

Izmir usually gets more rain in April than Cesis. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cesis receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Cesis 5°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Cesis and Izmir

Izmir Cesis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)