Should I Visit Izmir or Alexandria for Vacation? Which is Better? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive?

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 The Alexandria Library housed their most sacred and historical documents only to be burned to the ground.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.

Izmir Prices
Turkey Prices

Alexandria Prices
Egypt Prices
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day

Izmir $112

Alexandria $20

The average daily cost (per person) in Izmir is $112, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $20. 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 $55

Alexandria $7.51
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room

Izmir $110

Alexandria $15

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.

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 $27

Alexandria $2.34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

Izmir Airport - Kusadasi Private Transfer: $140
Arrival Transfer Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Izmir by Minibus: $45
Ayvalık to Izmir Airport (ADB) - Departure Private Transfer: $265
Ayvalık to Izmir International Airport (ADB) - Departure Private Transfer: $240
Balikesir Airport Transfers to Balikesir Ayvalik Hotels: $101
Balikesir Edremit Hotels to Balikesir Airport Transfers: $101
Bodrum Airport Luxury Private Minivan By Meet Transfer : $42
Canakkale Airport Transfers to Lapseki Hotels: $101
Dalaman Airport DLM Transfers to Gocek Hotels: $53
Dalaman Airport Transfer Vip & Private : $56
Ephesus Guided Tour From Izmir With Lunch & Hotel Transfer: $130
From Izmir Airport: One-way Private Transfer to Alacati: $87

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:

Alexandria Airport Arrival Transfer: $24
Alexandria to Alexandria Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $75
Borg El Arab Arrival & Departure Transfers: $40
From Private One-Way Transfer to Cairo: $82
Private Airport Transfer in Alexandria: $19
Private Day Trip To Egyptian Museum, Citadel & Old Cairo By Private Transfers: $8.00
Private Pick Up Transfers From Alexandria To Cairo: $130
Private Transfer From Alexandria City To Cairo Airport: $80
Private Transfer from Alexandria Airport (HBE) to Alexandria: $75
Private Transfer from Alexandria City hotels to Alexandria Port : $47
Private Transfer from Alexandria Port to Cairo Int Airport (CAI): $251
Private transfer from Alexandria to Luxor: $246

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 $38

Alexandria $10

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
Alexandria Food Tour Top Rated: $40
Private Food Tour To The Famous Restaurant In Alexandria : $45
Alexandria food Tour taste the Egyptian traditional food: $60
From Giza: Sound&light show, Giza pyramids and Dinner on the Nile: $94

Entertainment

Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.

Izmir $19

Alexandria $3.28

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

Olive Oil Tasting Experience in Turkey : $2.88
Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $26
Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $30
From Ephesus, Artemis Temple WITH ENTRY TICKETS+LUNCH: $55
From Ephesus, Artemis Temple WITH ENTRY TICKETS+LUNCH: $56
Ephesus Tour: $58
Ephesus: House of Mary, Artemis Temple WITH TICKETS + LUNCH: $61
From Ephesus, House of Mary WITH ENTRY TICKETS+LUNCH: $65
Izmir City Tour: $67
Izmir : Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour: $67
Çeşme, Alaçatı, Seferihisar and Sığacık Tour: $72
Izmir City Tour : $75

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

Pompey's Pillar Entry Ticket: $3.80
Catacomb Of Kom El-Shoqafa Entry Tickets : $3.80
Skip The Line Entry Ticket to the Roman Theater in Alexandria: $4.24
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa Entry Tickets: $4.47
Alexandria day tour.The catacomb, pompy's pillar,the citedal: $5.00
Qaitbay Citadel Entry Tickets: $5.96
Skip the Line Tickets for The Catacomb of Kom eL Shoqafa: $5.96
From Cairo: Alexandria Like a Local True Authentic Tour: $8.99
Pompey's Pillar Entry Ticket Included Pickup And Drop Off: $14
Citadel of Qaitbay Entry Ticket with Pick up and Drop Off : $14
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa Entry Ticket with Pick and Drop Off: $14
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa Entry Ticket with Pickup and Drop Off: $15

Alcohol

Alcohol Drinks for one day

Izmir $8.10

Alexandria $1.27

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey: $104
Wine Tour with Metropolis Ancient City: $111

How are these travel costs calculated?

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)

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?

Where Should I go: Izmir or Alexandria?

Izmir

Alexandria

Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Izmir?

Accommodation

Compare Hotels in Izmir and Alexandria

Local Transportation

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Alexandria

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alexandria

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Alexandria?

Food

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alexandria

Entertainment

Tours and Activities in Izmir

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Alcohol

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Which is Bigger, Izmir or Alexandria?

When is the best time to visit Izmir or Alexandria?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Summer?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Winter?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Spring?

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Izmir

Related Articles for Izmir

Related Articles for Alexandria

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?

Where Should I go: Izmir or Alexandria?

Izmir

Alexandria

Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Izmir?

Accommodation

Compare Hotels in Izmir and Alexandria

Local Transportation

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Alexandria

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alexandria

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Alexandria?

Food

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alexandria

Entertainment

Tours and Activities in Izmir

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Alcohol

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Which is Bigger, Izmir or Alexandria?

When is the best time to visit Izmir or Alexandria?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Summer?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Winter?

Should I visit Izmir or Alexandria in the Spring?

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Izmir

Related Articles for Izmir

Related Articles for Alexandria

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