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

Should you visit Izmir or Taormina?

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 Taormina. 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. It's also popular because of the food. See Izmir travel costs.

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Taormina is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Taormina travel costs.

Izmir and Taormina: 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Izmir or Taormina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Taormina than Izmir, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Taormina is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Izmir is more popular for its big city activities. Taormina is more touristy than Izmir and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Also, Taormina is famous for The Greek Theater. Izmir is well known for

How is Izmir different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Izmir
Taormina

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

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Taormina

Foodies will find both Izmir and Taormina 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).

Taormina has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

Is Izmir or Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Taormina

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

The people in Taormina know how to have a good time. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Taormina Better for Resorts?

Izmir
Taormina

Taormina is a great destination for its resorts. However, Izmir is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Taormina to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Izmir is not a resort destination.


Is Izmir or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Izmir
Taormina

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

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Izmir is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Taormina?

Izmir
Taormina

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

Taormina is a great destination for shopping. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Taormina More Beautiful?

Izmir
Taormina

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

Taormina is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town's charm and surrounding beauty make it a popular destination on the island of Sicily.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Izmir or Taormina Better for Families?

Izmir
Taormina

Izmir is a great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Izmir. 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Izmir or Taormina Better for Couples?

Izmir
Taormina

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

Couples visit Taormina frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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 Taormina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Taormina

Izmir is a great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.


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

Izmir
Taormina

Izmir is a great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Taormina has a few public transit options. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Is Izmir or Taormina a more walkable city?

Izmir
Taormina

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

Taormina is very walkable. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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 Taormina or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Taormina?

It's fun to spend time in either Izmir or Taormina. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Taormina due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Izmir, and 2-4 days is enough time in Taormina.

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


  • How many days in Izmir or Taormina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Izmir 2-3 
    Taormina 2-4

One day in Izmir or Taormina?


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The of Izmir offers food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Taormina is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town 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 Taormina?


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Izmir is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Izmir, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Taormina?


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Izmir is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Taormina is a fun place to experience. Taormina is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Izmir or Taormina?


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Izmir is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This offers something for everyone.

Taormina is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Taormina 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 Taormina is $155. 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 Taormina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Taormina $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Taormina $164
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Taormina

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Taormina? 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 Taormina


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 Taormina Hotel Prices.

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $45

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Taormina?

Prices for flights to both Taormina 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
    Taormina $67

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
    Taormina $13

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 Taormina

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

  • From Messina: boat tour discovering Isola bella and Taormina: $217
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $234
  • From Taormina or Messina Harbor: Private Godfather Tour: $317
  • Best Tour di Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella e Messina: $470
  • Shore tour from Messina cruise port: Taormina and Castelmola: $540
  • Shore tour from Messina port: Taormina & Godfather Places: $599
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $666

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Taormina $10

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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Taormina?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Taormina, 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 Taormina?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Izmir or Taormina in the Summer?

Both Taormina and Izmir during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Izmir for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Izmir is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 28°C (82°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Izmir. In the summer, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in July than Taormina. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Taormina 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Taormina in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Taormina. The autumn months attract visitors to Izmir because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Taormina this time of year.

Izmir is around the same temperature as Taormina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Taormina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during autumn. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Izmir usually receives less rain than Taormina. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Taormina 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Taormina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Taormina. The cuisine are the main draw to Izmir this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Taormina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Izmir is cooler than Taormina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Izmir in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Taormina averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Izmir gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 115 hours of full sun.

Izmir receives a lot of rain in the winter. Izmir usually gets more rain in January than Taormina. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Taormina 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Taormina in the Spring?

Both Taormina and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Izmir for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Taormina in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Izmir is generally around the same temperature as Taormina. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 16°C (61°F), and Taormina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Taormina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during spring. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Izmir usually receives more rain than Taormina. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Taormina 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Taormina and Izmir

Izmir Taormina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)