A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dar es Salaam vs. Izmir for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Dar es Salaam or Izmir?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dar es Salaam and Izmir can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Dar es Salaam or Izmir?

Dar es Salaam

Having grown from a fishing village, Dar es Salaam is now a major city and commercial port on Tanzania's Indian Ocean coast. While it is mainly used as a stopping point on the way to Zanzibar, it has a few unique treasures of its own such as the Kariakoo Market, National Museum, and the open-air Village Museum.

Izmir

Izmir is a metropolitan city of Turkey and the second most populous city on the Aegean Sea after Athens, Greece. Known as Smyrna in antiquity, it was founded by the Greeks, taken over by the Romans, and rebuilt by Alexander the Great before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Most remnants of this past are gone; however, there are a few archaeological sites in addition to beaches, bustling city streets, and colorful markets.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Safaris in Tanzania, The Best Safaris in Tanzania, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul.


Which place is cheaper, Izmir or Dar es Salaam?

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 Dar es Salaam is $462, while the average daily cost in Izmir is $86. 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 Dar es Salaam and Izmir in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dar es Salaam $424
    Izmir $43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dar es Salaam $848
    Izmir $86
Compare Hotels in Dar es Salaam and Izmir

Looking for a hotel in Dar es Salaam or Izmir? 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 Dar es Salaam


Hotels in Izmir


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: Dar es Salaam Hotel Prices and Izmir Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dar es Salaam $13
    Izmir $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dar es Salaam

Also for Dar es Salaam, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfers To/from Dar Es Salaam City Center Or To/from Your Hotel: $85
  • Dar es Salaam Airport Transfers Comfortable Ride to Your Hotel: $60
  • Half-Day City Tour with Transfers: $59
  • Private Layover Tour with Airport Transfer: $120
  • Dar es salaam Airport Transfer (Private & Group): $60
  • Ferry Tickets to Zanzibar with Transfers.: $120
  • Julius Nyerere Airport (DAR) Private Transfer to Dar es Salaam: $50
  • Private Transfer from Dar El Salaam to Julius Nyerere Airport (DAR): $105
  • Private VIP Ferry Tickets to Zanzibar with two way transfers: $250
  • Transfer from dar es salaam to morogoro: $203
  • Zanzibar Airport Shared Taxi Transfer to Any Hotel: $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport to Bergama: $283
  • Antalya Airport AYT Transfers to Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels: $248
  • Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels to Antalya Airport AYT Transfers: $248
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Ayvalik Resort: $242
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Didim: $241
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Bozbuk Bay (Akbuk) Hotels: $230
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Yalikoy (Didim) Hotels: $206
  • Izmir Airport (ADB) to Çeşme, Alaçatı Round-Trip Private Transfer: $177
  • VIP Private Transfer | Izmir Airport to Kusadasi or Selcuk: $170
  • Luxury Private Izmir Airport Transfer Service: $160
  • Izmir Airport to Didim Hotels – Private Airport Transfer: $153
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Kusadasi International Golf Hotels: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Dar es Salaam or Izmir?

Prices for flights to both Izmir and Dar es Salaam 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
    Dar es Salaam $31
    Izmir $30

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
  • Authentic Dinner Cooking with a Local Family in İzmir: $90
  • Private Food tour in Europe and Asian Side of Istanbul: $295

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dar es Salaam -
    Izmir $14

Tours and Activities in Dar es Salaam

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Dar es Salaam.

  • Dar es Salaam City Tour: Experience & Insights Tanzanian culture: $37
  • Visit Sinda island with Samrun Marine Tours: $50
  • Beach Day Tour with Resort Access: $65
  • Nightlife and Local Food Experience in Dar es Salaam: $65
  • Private Mbudya Island Retreat Adventure from Dar Es Salaam: $82
  • Private Tour to Jozani Forest Reserve Half-Day Guided Tour from Zanzibar: $90
  • Dar es Salaam City Tour - Everyday: $97
  • Private Dar es Salaam Experience: Culture & Local Life: $99
  • Dar es Salaam City Walking tour - Explore the Life of the Local People!: $100
  • Full Day Private Tour in Dar es Salaam City: $104
  • Zanzibar Spice Tour: $109
  • Stone Town & Spice Tour: $110

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

  • 2 Day Ephesus and Pamukkale Tour from Izmir Hotels: $295
  • Alaçatı & Çeşme Chill Tour: Vibes, Streets & Snapshots: $120
  • BEST SELLER Small Group Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $117
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $41
  • Cesme-Alacati Tour from Izmir: $71
  • Customized Ephesus Private Tour / FOR CRUISE GUESTS ONLY: $170
  • Customized Ephesus Tour with Lunch: $189
  • Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir: $159
  • EPHESUS PRIVATE TOUR From Izmir Port: $117
  • Ephesus & Sirince Village Tour from İzmir: $145
  • Ephesus Ancient City Tour from Izmir Explore Historic Landmarks: $240

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dar es Salaam $7.48
    Izmir $6.26

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

  • Wine Tour with Metropolis Ancient City: $124
  • Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey: $277


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dar es Salaam and Izmir, we can see that Dar es Salaam is more expensive. And not only is Izmir much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dar es Salaam is in Africa and Izmir is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Dar es Salaam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dar es Salaam 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 Dar es Salaam Expensive? and Is Izmir Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dar es Salaam or Izmir?

Dar es Salaam has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Izmir. When comparing the sizes of Dar es Salaam and Izmir, 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 Dar es Salaam or Izmir?

Izmir has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dar es Salaam experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dar es Salaam or Izmir in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dar es Salaam as well as Izmir. Dar es Salaam attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Izmir for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dar es Salaam is cooler than Izmir in the summer. The daily temperature in Dar es Salaam averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Izmir fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dar es Salaam this time of the year. In the summer, Dar es Salaam often gets less sunshine than Izmir. Dar es Salaam gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 378 hours of full sun.

Dar es Salaam usually gets more rain in July than Izmir. Dar es Salaam gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dar es Salaam 25°C (77°F) 
    Izmir 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Dar es Salaam or Izmir in the Autumn?

Both Izmir and Dar es Salaam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dar es Salaam throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Izmir because of the city's sights and attractions.

In the autumn, Dar es Salaam is a little warmer than Izmir. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dar es Salaam in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Izmir averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaam usually receives more sunshine than Izmir during autumn. Dar es Salaam gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Izmir receives 232 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dar es Salaam usually receives more rain than Izmir. Dar es Salaam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dar es Salaam 25°C (78°F) 
    Izmir 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Dar es Salaam or Izmir in the Winter?

Both Izmir and Dar es Salaam during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dar es Salaam because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Izmir this time of year.

In January, Dar es Salaam is generally much warmer than Izmir. Daily temperatures in Dar es Salaam average around 28°C (82°F), and Izmir fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Dar es Salaam. In the winter, Dar es Salaam often gets more sunshine than Izmir. Dar es Salaam gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 131 hours of full sun.

Izmir gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dar es Salaam usually gets less rain in January than Izmir. Dar es Salaam gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dar es Salaam 28°C (82°F) 
    Izmir 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Dar es Salaam or Izmir in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dar es Salaam and Izmir. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dar es Salaam year-round. Also, many travelers come to Izmir for the activities around the city.

Dar es Salaam is much warmer than Izmir in the spring. The daily temperature in Dar es Salaam averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Izmir fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. Dar es Salaam usually receives less sunshine than Izmir during spring. Dar es Salaam gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Izmir receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

Dar es Salaam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Dar es Salaam usually receives more rain than Izmir. Dar es Salaam gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dar es Salaam 27°C (81°F) 
    Izmir 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Izmir and Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam Izmir
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°C (82°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 28°C (83°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 269 mm (10.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 26°C (78°F) 176 mm (6.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 24°C (75°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 25°C (78°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in)