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

Should you visit Izmir or Varenna?

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 Varenna. 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. Visitors also love the food. See Izmir travel costs.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. The famous beauty of Varenna is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Varenna travel costs.

Izmir and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como


Is there more to do in Izmir or Varenna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Varenna. Although Izmir and Varenna are popular destinations, Varenna has more sights and attractions for tourists. Varenna is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Izmir attracts visitors for its big city activities. Varenna is more touristy than Izmir and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. It is also well known for Lake Como. Izmir is famous for

Lake Como
Lake Como

How is Izmir different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Izmir
Varenna

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

Varenna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Varenna

Varenna 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 Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Varenna

Varenna is a village with a few options for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Izmir
Varenna

Varenna is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Izmir is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Izmir is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Varenna?

Izmir
Varenna

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

Varenna is a great destination for shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Varenna More Beautiful?

Izmir
Varenna

Varenna is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Varenna is one of the main draws. This beautiful town can easily be explored in a few hours, but you should allow more time just to soak up its striking beauty.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Izmir or Varenna Better for Families?

Izmir
Varenna

Izmir is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Izmir is very family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.


Is Izmir or Varenna Better for Couples?

Izmir
Varenna

Varenna is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Varenna

Izmir is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Izmir
Varenna

Izmir is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Izmir can get you to some places easily. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.


Is Izmir or Varenna a more walkable city?

Izmir
Varenna

Varenna 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 Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best 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 Varenna or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Varenna?

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

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

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


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

One day in Izmir or Varenna?


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In Izmir, you'll find food. This offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Varenna, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This village 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 Varenna?


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In Izmir, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Izmir has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Varenna?


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Izmir is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Izmir or Varenna?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Izmir. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Izmir. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Varenna 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 Varenna is $238. 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 Varenna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Varenna $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Varenna $202
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Varenna

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Varenna? 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 Varenna


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 Varenna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Varenna $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • İzmir Airport Private Transfer Service: $75
  • Transfer to Kusadasi from Izmir Airport: $82
  • Transfer to Izmir airport from Kusadasi: $82
  • Transfer from Izmir to Didim: $287
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Gümüldür, Seferihisar: $131
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Ayvalik Resort: $242
  • Private Transfer | IZMIR City Hotels - Izmir AIRPORT: $66
  • Private Transfer from Izmir city Hotels to Izmir Cruise Port: $54
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Cruise Port to Izmir hotels: $59
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport to Selcuk: $131
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport (Adnan Menderes) to Central Izmir: $67
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport (ADB) to Kusadasi Cruise Port: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Varenna?

Prices for flights to both Varenna 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
    Varenna $107

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Izmir

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

  • Authentic Turkish Home Cooking Class with Locals: $76
  • Izmir to Aphrodisias: Cooking & Ceramics Class: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $16
    Varenna $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
  • 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: $42
  • Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir: $161
  • Day Tour to Pamukkale from-to Izmir: $240
  • Ephesus & Sirince Village Tour from İzmir: $145
  • Ephesus Ancient City with Best Guides Only For Cruise Guests: $59
  • Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir with Lunch: $131
  • Ephesus Excursion For Cruisers: $586
  • Ephesus Full Day Tour From Izmir: $149

Tours and Activities in Varenna

For Varenna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Small Group Lake Como Experience with boat & van, from Milan: $146

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Varenna $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

  • Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey: $131


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Varenna?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 2960 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Varenna, 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Varenna. The summer months attract visitors to Izmir because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In the summer, Izmir is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Izmir in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Varenna averages at about 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Varenna. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. In the summer, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Izmir usually gets less rain in July than Varenna. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Varenna 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Izmir this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Izmir is generally a little warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 19°C (67°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during autumn. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In October, Izmir usually receives less rain than Varenna. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Varenna 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Varenna in the Winter?

Both Varenna and Izmir during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Izmir for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. Izmir is much warmer than Varenna in the winter. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Izmir gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually gets more rain in January than Varenna. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Varenna 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Varenna. Many visitors come to Izmir in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Izmir is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Izmir in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Varenna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during spring. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Izmir usually receives less rain than Varenna. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Varenna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Varenna and Izmir

Izmir Varenna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)