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

Should you visit Izmir or Tartu?

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 Tartu. 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a historical, lively, and intellectual university town. Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Izmir and Tartu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Izmir or Tartu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Tartu than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than Tartu, Tartu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tartu is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Izmir is more popular for its food and big city activities. Tartu is more touristy than Izmir and is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university. Also, Tartu is famous for Tartu Cathedral. Izmir is well known for

How is Izmir different from Tartu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Izmir
Tartu

Izmir is a great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Izmir has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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).

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.


Is Izmir or Tartu Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Tartu

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

The people in Tartu know how to have a good time. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Tartu Better for its Old Town?

Izmir
Tartu

Tartu is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Izmir does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Tartu. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Tartu?

Izmir
Tartu

Tartu is a university town with a few options for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Izmir or Tartu More Beautiful?

Izmir
Tartu

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

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Izmir or Tartu Better for Families?

Izmir
Tartu

Izmir is a great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Izmir or Tartu Better for Couples?

Izmir
Tartu

Izmir is a with good options for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Izmir is a good for couples to visit. 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.


Is Izmir or Tartu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Tartu

Izmir and Tartu 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 Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Izmir or Tartu Better for Students?

Izmir
Tartu

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

Tartu is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Izmir is not popular with students.

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

Izmir
Tartu

Izmir is a great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university 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.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.


Is Izmir or Tartu a more walkable city?

Izmir
Tartu

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

Tartu is very walkable. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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 Tartu or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Tartu?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tartu 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 Tartu.


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

One day in Izmir or Tartu?


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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 Tartu, many people enjoy the nightlife that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This university 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 Tartu?


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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 Tartu. 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 Tartu?


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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.

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


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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 nightlife around the intellectual destination of Tartu. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, and The Best Budget Tours to Estonia.


Which place is cheaper, Tartu 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 Tartu 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 Tartu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Tartu $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Tartu $110
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Tartu

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Tartu? 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 Tartu


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 Tartu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Tartu $32

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Tartu?

Prices for flights to both Tartu 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
    Tartu $76

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 Tartu

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


  • Danishes
    $0.89
  • Lunch for Two
    $5.78
  • Ice Cream
    $1.49
  • Cookies
    $0.59
  • Coffee & Cake
    $4.07

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

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    $1.12
  • Movie Ticket
    $4.07

Tours and Activities in Tartu

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

  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $30
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR AND KENNEL VISIT: $141
  • Charming Viljandi Private Walking Tour for Couples: $260
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Private Walking Tour: $751
  • Dazzling Tartu City Cultural Private Walking Tour: $751

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Tartu $18

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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Tartu?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Tartu, 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 Tartu?

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 Tartu in the Summer?

Both Tartu 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 Tartu because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Izmir is generally much warmer than Tartu. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 28°C (82°F), and Tartu fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Tartu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Izmir. In the summer, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 265 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in July than Tartu. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Tartu 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Tartu in the Autumn?

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

Izmir is much warmer than Tartu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Tartu fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during autumn. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Izmir usually receives less rain than Tartu. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Tartu 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Tartu in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. In the winter, Izmir is much warmer than Tartu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Izmir in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Tartu averages at about -7°C (19°F).

In the winter, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Izmir gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 36 hours of full sun.

Izmir receives a lot of rain in the winter. Izmir usually gets more rain in January than Tartu. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Tartu -7°C (19°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Tartu in the Spring?

Both Tartu 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 Tartu in the spring for the natural beauty.

Tartu can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Izmir is generally much warmer than Tartu. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 16°C (61°F), and Tartu fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during spring. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Izmir usually receives more rain than Tartu. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Tartu 5°C (41°F)

Typical Weather for Tartu and Izmir

Izmir Tartu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 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) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)