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

Should you visit Izmir or Lucca?

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 Lucca. 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.

Lucca

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

Izmir and Lucca: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Izmir or Lucca?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucca than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than Lucca, Lucca has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucca 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. Lucca is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its ancient city walls and its many historic buildings. Also, Lucca is famous for The Guinigi Tower. Izmir is well known for

How is Izmir different from Lucca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Izmir
Lucca

Lucca is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucca. There are many interesting historic sights and buildings around this charming town. You can climb to the top of the Guinigi Tower or visit the Roman Amphitheater. Many visitors enjoy walking or biking around the city walls as well. Also make sure you visit the cathedral.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Lucca

Foodies will find both Izmir and Lucca both to be very good 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).

Lucca has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great Tuscan restaurants inside the city walls. Perhaps the most popular local dish is tordelli Lucchesi. Its a meat filled pasta that has a beef ragu sauce. There are also other Tuscan recipes that include steak, boar, or rabbit.

Is Izmir or Lucca Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Lucca

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

Lucca has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is most lively during the spring and summer months when tourists crowd into the city. For the highest concentration of bars, clubs, and lounges, head to Piazza Amfiteatro, Piazza San Michele and Via Fillungo.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Lucca Better for its Old Town?

Izmir
Lucca

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

The historic old town of Lucca is revered around the world. The historic city is surrounded by city walls, which you can walk around. Within the walls there are cobblestone streets and a charming atmosphere.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Lucca?

Izmir
Lucca

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

Lucca is a great destination for shopping. The city is filled with a mix of tourist shops and more authentic local vendors. If you look hard, you can still find some interesting local items that make for a more unique and personal shopping experience.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Lucca More Beautiful?

Izmir
Lucca

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

Lucca is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful city that's surrounded by walls and filled with winding streets.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Izmir or Lucca Better for Families?

Izmir
Lucca

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

Lucca offers lots of family activities. You can pass through town in a day or two, or stay longer and use it as a base for exploring Tuscany. There are playgrounds for the kids as well as some fun activities like cycling the city walls and climbing towers.


Is Izmir or Lucca Better for Couples?

Izmir
Lucca

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

Couples visit Lucca frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful city with good restaurants and access to nice countryside. Couples who want to explore Tuscany can use this town as a base to take in much of the region.

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 Lucca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Lucca

Izmir is well known for backpackers. Also, Lucca is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Lucca. While there aren't many traditional hostels around town, guesthouses are usually affordable.

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

Izmir
Lucca

Izmir is well known for its public transit. However, Lucca is not particularly known 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Lucca. There's no public transit within the city so if you can't walk somewhere, you'll want to take a taxi. In general, walking is the best option though.


Is Izmir or Lucca a more walkable city?

Izmir
Lucca

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

Lucca is very walkable. Much of the city can be explored on foot.

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 Lucca or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Lucca?

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

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


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

One day in Izmir or Lucca?


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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 Lucca, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Lucca?


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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 Lucca. 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 Lucca?


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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.

Lucca is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lucca. 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 Lucca?


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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 charming destination of Lucca. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Lucca 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 Lucca is $160. 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 Lucca in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Lucca $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Lucca $142
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Lucca

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Lucca? 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 Lucca


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 Lucca Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Lucca $5.03

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 Lucca

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Lucca:

  • Private Transfer from Lido di Camaiore to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucca to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $263
  • Tasting in a Tuscan Vineyard with transfer from Lucca: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Lucca?

Prices for flights to both Lucca 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
    Lucca $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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucca

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Lucca.

  • Morning Food Tour with Snacks and Coffee: $82
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in San Miniato with Show Cooking: $101
  • Lucca’s Ultimate Food Tour: Full Tuscan Meal by Do Eat Better: $108
  • 2Italia Lucca Food Tour: $113
  • Lucca Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine: $115
  • Lucca Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine: $118
  • Typical Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Lucca: $131
  • Cooking Class Lucca: $152
  • Traditional-Traditional Cooking Class cuisine course: $152
  • Private Home-made Pasta Cooking Class: $152
  • Every Day Cooking Class in Lucca Italy: $155
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class in Pistoia: $161

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $16
    Lucca $6.66

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 Lucca

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

  • join a 'must see' walking tour! (English): $18
  • 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour: $18
  • Renaissance City Walls Walking Tour: $18
  • Guided City by Night Walking Tour: $18
  • Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Your Lucca Walking Tour English OR Italian: $18
  • Discover Lucca’s Secrets on a Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Self-Guided Tour by Bike: $21
  • Self-Guided Tour by Bike with MAP: $21
  • Walking Tour: Mysterious Lucca through Stories and Legends: $23
  • Lucca Red Light Tour: Discovering the City's Naughty History: $23
  • From Lucca to Pisa: Self-Guided Bike Tour: $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Lucca $15

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 Lucca

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

  • Wine Tasting Experience - Tenuta Adamo Winery: $24
  • Guided Winery Tour with Wine Tasting: $29
  • Wine tasting in Lucca: $48
  • Honest Wines- Wine tasting at Cantina Biagiotti: $60
  • Tuscany Wine Tours in a family winery Podere Pellicciano: $83
  • Wine tasting in Versilia with sommelier - 5 wines and local products: $89
  • Chianti Half-Day Wine Tour in the Tuscan Hills Small Group from Lucca: $94
  • RomanticOpera concert in the artist's house on the hills and wine tasting: $104
  • Guided E-Bike and Wine Tour: $127
  • Guided E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting from Lucca: $130
  • Bike Ride & WIne Tasting: $143
  • Tuscan Wine Tour by van from Lucca: $174


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Lucca?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lucca. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Lucca, 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.