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

Should you visit Izmir or Alexandria?

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 Alexandria. 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.

Where Should I go: Izmir or Alexandria?

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.

Alexandria

There are few cities in the world with a history as rich, deep, tragic and fascinating than Alexandria, Egypt. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Egypt's second largest city has seen the most extreme ups and extreme downs. The city watched the beautiful and iconic Alexandria Lighthouse crumble to the ground after several natural disasters. The Alexandria Library housed their most sacred and historical documents only to be burned to the ground. These structures may be physically gone, but the history remains. Alexandria is a city with an ancient allure that draws in visitors from all over the world. Alexandria is a survivor city ready for a comeback.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul, The Best Luxury Tours to Egypt, and The Best Budget Tours to Egypt.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria 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 $82, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $27. 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 Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $41
    Alexandria $9.92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $82
    Alexandria $20
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Alexandria? 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 Alexandria


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 Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $20
    Alexandria $3.67

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • Arrival Transfer Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport ADB to Izmir by Van: $67
  • Arrival Transfer Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Izmir by Minibus: $92
  • Ayvalık to Izmir Airport (ADB) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Ayvalık to Izmir International Airport (ADB) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Balikesir Airport Transfers to Balikesir Ayvalik Hotels: $112
  • Balikesir Airport Transfers to Balikesir Edremit Hotels: $112
  • Balikesir Ayvalik Hotels to Balikesir Airport Transfers: $112
  • Balikesir Edremit Hotels to Balikesir Airport Transfers: $112
  • Bodrum Airport Private Minivan By Meet Transfer: $42
  • Bodrum Airport Transfer Luxury Van Meet Transfer: $45
  • Canakkale Airport Transfers to Lapseki Hotels: $112
  • Dalaman Airport DLM Transfers to Gocek Hotels: $59

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Alexandria

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Alexandria:


  • Taxi to Train Station
    $0.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alexandria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alexandria:

  • Airport Transfer from Alexandria to Marsa Matrouh: $74
  • Alexandria Airport (HBE)to Alexandria-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $71
  • Alexandria Airport Arrival Transfer: $24
  • Alexandria to Alexandria Airport (HBE)-Departure Private Transfer: $36
  • Private One Way Transfer from Alexandria Hotels to Cairo and Giza Hotels: $80
  • Private Transfer Alexandria to Cairo Hotel or Airport: $73
  • Private Transfer From Alexandria To Cairo Airport: $240
  • Private Transfer from Alexandria Airport (HBE) to Alexandria Port: $43
  • Private Transfer from Alexandria Cruise Port to Cairo City Hotels: $227
  • Private Transfer from Alexandria Hotels to Alexandria Airport: $20
  • Private Transfer from Alexandria Port to Cairo or Giza Hotels: $68
  • Private Transfer from Alexandria to Cairo in Egypt or vice versa: $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria 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 $28
    Alexandria $14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Izmir

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

  • Authentic Dinner Cooking with a Local Family in İzmir: $95
  • Authentic Dinner Cooking with a Local Family in İzmir: $115
  • Private Food tour in Europe and Asian Side of Istanbul: $296

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alexandria

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

  • Half-Day Food Tour in Alexandria, Egypt: $20
  • Private Half Day Food Tour in Alexandria Egypt: $20
  • Alexandria Food Tour Top Rated: $40
  • Alexandria food Tour taste the Egyptian traditional food: $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $14
    Alexandria $5.12

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

  • Izmir Private Walking Tour: Hidden Gems & Highlights: $24
  • PRIVATE EPHESUS TOUR FOR CRUISERS: Skip The Lines: $29
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $30
  • Budget-Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $40
  • Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $41
  • Izmir : Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour: $45
  • Pamukkale Small Group Tour from Antalya: $56
  • From Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, & Sirince Tour: $60
  • Dalyan Boat Tour with Mud Bath & Iztuzu Beach from Sarigerme: $64
  • Marmaris Pirate Themed Family Boat Cruise with Lunch: $65
  • Private Tour: Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary from Izmir Port: $70
  • Pamukkale Tour from Izmir to Hierapolis and Travertines: $77

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Tour to The Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria: $19
  • Group Tour to the landmarks of Alexandria from Alexandria city: $20
  • Half Day Tour to Bibliotheca Alexandrina: $22
  • Private Alexandria Highlights Guided Day Tour: $35
  • Rosetta Day Tour from Alexandria Islamic architecture: $37
  • Catacombs of kom el shoqafa Guided Walking Tour: $40
  • Private Day Tour to Giza pyramids and the Egyptian museum from Alexandria by car: $40
  • Alexandria Day Tour Visit the Tob attractions of Alexandria City: $40
  • Walking Tour in Alexandria from Alexandria Hotels: $45
  • Islamic Cairo Hidden Gems and Khan El Khalili Local Experience: $45
  • Alexandria Library Exclusive Guided Walking Tour: $45
  • Graeco Roman Museum Guided Walking Tour by a Storyteller: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $5.97
    Alexandria $1.38

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: $278


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Izmir and Alexandria, we can see that Izmir is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Izmir is in Europe and Alexandria is in Africa, 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 Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria 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 Izmir would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Izmir than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Izmir Expensive? and Is Alexandria Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Alexandria?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 52% larger than the population of Izmir. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Alexandria, 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 Alexandria?

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

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Izmir for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Alexandria because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Izmir is generally around the same temperature as Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 28°C (82°F), and Alexandria fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than Alexandria. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Alexandria 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and Izmir during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Izmir in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Alexandria year-round.

Izmir is cooler than Alexandria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Alexandria fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Izmir usually gets more rain in October than Alexandria. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Alexandria 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Alexandria. Most visitors come to Izmir for the cuisine during these months. Alexandria attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

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

Izmir gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Izmir usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Alexandria. The spring months attract visitors to Izmir because of the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Alexandria throughout the year.

In April, Izmir is generally cooler than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 16°C (61°F), and Alexandria fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Izmir usually gets more rain in April than Alexandria. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Alexandria receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Alexandria 19°C (66°F)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Izmir

Izmir Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 16°C (61°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)