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

Should you visit Izmir or Kiel?

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 Kiel. 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.

Kiel

Kiel is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and waterfront city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Kiel travel costs.

Izmir and Kiel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Izmir or Kiel?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Kiel than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than Kiel, Kiel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Kiel is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Izmir attracts visitors for its food. Kiel is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. It is also well known for The Kiel Castle. Izmir is famous for

How is Izmir different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kiel 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 Kiel?

Izmir
Kiel

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

Kiel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Kiel

Izmir is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular 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).

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Izmir or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Kiel

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

Kiel has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Kiel Better for Beaches?

Izmir
Kiel

Kiel is a good destination for its beaches. However, Izmir is not a beach destination.

Kiel offers a nice beach destination. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Izmir is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Kiel?

Izmir
Kiel

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

Kiel is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Kiel Better for Families?

Izmir
Kiel

Izmir is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Izmir or Kiel Better for Couples?

Izmir
Kiel

Izmir and Kiel 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.

Kiel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.


Is Izmir or Kiel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Kiel

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

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Izmir or Kiel Better for Students?

Izmir
Kiel

Kiel is a good destination for students. However, Izmir is not popular with students.

Kiel is popular with students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Izmir is not popular with students.

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

Izmir
Kiel

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

Izmir has some very good public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.


Is Izmir or Kiel a more walkable city?

Izmir
Kiel

Izmir and Kiel 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.

Kiel is a somewhat walkable place. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Kiel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Izmir and Kiel. In our opinion, Kiel has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kiel than Izmir. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Izmir, and 1-3 days is enough time in Kiel.

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

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

One day in Izmir or Kiel?


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Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Kiel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city 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 Kiel?


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Izmir is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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


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You'll find food around the destination of Izmir. This offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Izmir or Kiel?


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The of Izmir offers food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Kiel. 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, The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Kiel 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 Kiel is $195. 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 Kiel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Kiel $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Kiel $158
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Kiel

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Kiel? 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 Kiel


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 Kiel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Kiel $64

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kiel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kiel:

  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM) - Departure Private Transfer: $205
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $204
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg city: $205
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Port to Hamburg Airport(HAM): $204

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Kiel?

Prices for flights to both Kiel 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
    Kiel $78

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.
    Izmir $16
    Kiel $22

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

Tours and Activities in Kiel

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

  • Lübeck Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.41
  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.42
  • Lübeck Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $6.69
  • Lubeck Interactive City Tour: $8.38
  • Laboe Naval Memorial: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port: $12
  • SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand Admission Ticket: $20
  • Self-Guided GPS Ghost Hunting Nosferatu Walking Tour in Lubeck: $26
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $27
  • Puzzle tour to discover Lübeck with the seagull Pelle : $30
  • Lübeck stories - an exciting scavenger hunt tour: $37
  • Private Walking Tour of Kiel: $106

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Kiel $14

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Kiel

Also in Kiel, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Lindau Private guided tour with wine tasting: $59


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Kiel?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kiel. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Kiel, 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 Kiel?

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 Kiel in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Izmir is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Izmir in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Kiel averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Kiel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during summer. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than Kiel. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Kiel 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Kiel in the Autumn?

Both Kiel and Izmir during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Izmir for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kiel in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Izmir is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 19°C (67°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. In the autumn, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in October than Kiel. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Kiel 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Kiel in the Winter?

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

Kiel can be very cold during winter. Izmir is much warmer than Kiel in the winter. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Kiel fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during winter. Izmir gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 39 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 Kiel. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Kiel 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Kiel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Kiel. Most visitors come to Izmir for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Kiel because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Izmir is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Izmir in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Kiel averages at about 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. In the spring, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in April than Kiel. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Kiel 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Kiel and Izmir

Izmir Kiel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (38°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 2°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)