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

Should you visit Izmir or Madrid?

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 Madrid. 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

Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food. See Izmir travel costs.

Madrid

Madrid is a diverse, compact, and friendly city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping. See Madrid travel costs.

Izmir and Madrid: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Izmir or Madrid?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid than Izmir, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Madrid is more touristy than Izmir and is popular for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also home to The Prado Museum. Izmir is popular for

How is Izmir different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Izmir
Madrid

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

Madrid is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Madrid, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

Izmir has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Is Izmir or Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a great destination for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The people in Madrid know how to have a good time. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Madrid Better for Music?

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a world-class destination for live music. However, Izmir is not a live music destination.

Madrid is a world class music destination. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Izmir is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Madrid?

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Madrid is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Madrid Better for Families?

Izmir
Madrid

Both Izmir and Madrid are very good family-friendly destinations.

Izmir is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Madrid is very family-friendly. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

Is Izmir or Madrid Better for Couples?

Izmir
Madrid

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

Couples visit Madrid frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

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 Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Madrid

Izmir and Madrid are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Izmir. 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.

Many backpackers visit Madrid. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

Is Izmir or Madrid Better for Students?

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a world-class destination for students. However, Izmir is not popular with students.

Madrid is a very popular place to visit for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

Izmir is not popular with students.

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

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Madrid can get you around easily. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

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.


Is Izmir or Madrid a more walkable city?

Izmir
Madrid

Madrid is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Madrid on foot is easy. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

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 Madrid or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Madrid?

In either Izmir or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than Izmir because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Izmir, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.

Families should spend more time in Madrid than Izmir. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Madrid, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than Izmir 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 Madrid.


  • How many days in Izmir or Madrid? Ideal Length of Stay
    Izmir 2-3 
    Madrid 2-5

One day in Izmir or Madrid?


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Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Madrid has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city 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.

A weekend in Izmir or Madrid?


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Izmir is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Izmir. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Madrid is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Madrid has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Izmir or Madrid?


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Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact big city of Madrid. 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 Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.


Which place is cheaper, Madrid 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 Madrid is $189. 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 Madrid in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Madrid $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Madrid $182
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Madrid

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Madrid? 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 Madrid


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 Madrid Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Madrid $22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • Transfer from Izmir to Didim: $289
  • Antalya Airport AYT Transfers to Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels: $251
  • Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels to Antalya Airport AYT Transfers: $251
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Didim: $243
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Ayvalik Resort: $242
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Akbuk Hotels: $215
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Yalikoy (Didim) Hotels: $209
  • VIP Private Transfer | Izmir Airport to Kusadasi or Selcuk: $170
  • Bodrum Akyaka Hotels to Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers: $161
  • Izmir Airport to Cesme/Alacati, Kusadasi, and Foca Transfers: $144
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Sogucak Hotels: $131
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport to Selcuk: $131

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid

Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Madrid Airport MAD Round-Trip Transfer in Private Van: $180
  • Private One-Way Transfer to OR from Madrid Airport with private pick up: $69
  • Alcobendas Private Transfer To Madrid Barajas Airport: $29
  • Arrival Private Transfer Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid City by Van: $82
  • Arrival Private Transfer by Business Car from MAD Airport to Madrid: $61
  • Arrival Transfer from Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City by Van: $90
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Car: $84
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid in Private Van: $91
  • Arrival Transfer from Madrid MAD Airport to Madrid by Luxury Car: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer from Madrid to MAD Airport by Van: $79
  • Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Transfer: Madrid to Madrid Airport MAD in Luxury Van: $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Madrid?

Prices for flights to both Madrid 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
    Madrid $69

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 Madrid

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:


  • Coffee
    $2.35
  • Ice Cream
    $3.52
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    $19
  • Croissant
    $1.76
  • Lunch at Airport (for 2)
    $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid

For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Corral de la Moreria Madrid Flamenco Show with Optional Dinner: $60
  • Local Flamenco Show with dinner at El Cortijo: $60
  • Zarzuela Opera and Dinner at La Castafiore Restaurant in Madrid: $66
  • Madrid Old Town Tour & Flamenco Show with Optional Dinner: $71
  • Chocolate & Churros Cooking Class in Madrid : $72
  • Madrid's Authentic Culture & Food Tour by Food Lover Tour: $78
  • 10 Tapas Cooking Class Experience in Madrid with Sangria: $82
  • Paella and Tapas Cooking Workshop in Madrid: $84
  • Madrid Spanish Omelet Cooking Class and Bottomless Wine brunch: $90
  • Spanish Cooking Class Paella Tapas and Sangria in Madrid: $102
  • Flamenco Show at Tablao La Carmela with Tapas Dinner: $106
  • Madrid Small Group Tapas Tour at 4 Venues -Lunch or Dinner: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $16
    Madrid $39

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

  • Small Group Ephesus Tour From Izmir Hotels: $171
  • Small Group Pamukkale Tour from Izmir Hotels: $176
  • 2-Hour Private Guided The best of Izmir Walking Tour: $185
  • Alaçatı & Çeşme Chill Tour: Vibes, Streets & Snapshots: $120
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $30
  • Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir: $161
  • EPHESUS PRIVATE TOUR From Izmir Port: $118
  • Ephesus & Sirince Village Tour from İzmir: $145
  • Ephesus Ancient City Tour from Izmir Explore Historic Landmarks: $160
  • Ephesus Ancient City with Best Guides Only For Cruise Guests: $59
  • Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir with Lunch: $131

Tours and Activities in Madrid

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.

  • Self Guided Walking City Tour in Madrid: $1.18
  • Walking Tour of Madrid Moderno, Madrid de los Bourbons : $1.80
  • Madrid Monumental Tour Retreat, Prado and Cibeles: $2.39
  • Tour "Barrio de las Letras" Spanish Golden Age: $2.87
  • Madrid Walking Tour from Puerta del Sol to Retiro Park: $3.59
  • Madrid Historical Walking Tour: $3.59
  • Self Guided Tours Madrid With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.59
  • Madrid - Medieval to Modern Walking Tour (English): $3.61
  • Madrid Mountains Free Walking Tour: $3.61
  • Madrid Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.85
  • Guided Tour of Madrid of the Austrias and the Historic Center: $4.80
  • Madrid City Highlights Walking Tour: $4.81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Madrid $23

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

Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:


  • Beer
    $5.87
  • Drinks and Tapas (for 2)
    $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:

  • Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
  • Madrid Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entrance: $12
  • Pub Crawl Madrid by Mad Party Crew: $20
  • Pub Crawl Madrid-The Original since 2005-Shots-Fun-Clubs-Dance: $30
  • Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
  • Wine Tasting in Madrid Experience: $55
  • Toledo Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Optional 3 Monuments: $58
  • Madrid Royal Palace Small Group Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $71
  • New Year Eve Madrid Pub Crawl: $83
  • Toledo Full Day with Winery Visit, Tapas & Wine Tasting : $83
  • Spanish Wine Tasting : $90
  • Madrid Ultimate Spanish Cuisine Food & Wine Tour : $95


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Madrid?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Izmir. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Madrid, 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.