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

Should you visit Izmir or Bergen?

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 Bergen. 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. Other popular activities here include food. See Izmir travel costs.

Bergen

Bergen is a friendly, laid back, and nostalgic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bergen travel costs.

Izmir and Bergen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Izmir or Bergen?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bergen than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than Bergen, Bergen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bergen is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Izmir is more popular for its food and big city activities. Bergen is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty. Also, Bergen is famous for Bryggen. Izmir is well known for

How is Izmir different from Bergen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Izmir
Bergen

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

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Izmir
Bergen

Izmir is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Izmir is an experience not to be missed. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Izmir or Bergen Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Bergen

Bergen is a good destination for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Bergen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Bergen Better for its Old Town?

Izmir
Bergen

Bergen is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Izmir does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bergen to see the historical old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Bergen?

Izmir
Bergen

Bergen is a great destination for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bergen is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Izmir or Bergen Better for Families?

Izmir
Bergen

Both Izmir and Bergen are superb family-friendly destinations.

Izmir is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bergen is very family-friendly. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Is Izmir or Bergen Better for Couples?

Izmir
Bergen

Bergen is a great destination for romance. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Bergen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

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 Bergen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Bergen

Izmir is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Izmir is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Izmir or Bergen Better for Students?

Izmir
Bergen

Bergen is a good destination for students. However, Izmir is not popular with students.

Bergen is popular with students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Izmir is not popular with students.

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

Izmir
Bergen

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Izmir and Bergen.

Public transit in Izmir is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Bergen has some very good public transit options. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.


Is Izmir or Bergen a more walkable city?

Izmir
Bergen

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

Bergen is very walkable. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore 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 Bergen or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Bergen?

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

Families should spend more time in Bergen than Izmir. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bergen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


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

One day in Izmir or Bergen?


Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5163

Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5302
Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bergen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this laid back destination offers. This city 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 Bergen?


Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5163

Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5302
Izmir is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergen. 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.


Five days in Izmir or Bergen?


Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5163

Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5302
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Izmir. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bergen is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bergen. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Izmir or Bergen?


Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5163

Deprecated: explode(): Passing null to parameter #2 ($string) of type string is deprecated in /homepages/12/d310477359/htdocs/include/template/templategenerator.php on line 5302
Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Izmir. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Bergen. 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Bergen 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 $83, while the average daily cost in Bergen is $151. 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 Bergen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $41
    Bergen $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $82
    Bergen $156
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Bergen

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Bergen? 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 Bergen


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 Bergen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $20
    Bergen $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • Izmir Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer from/to Izmir City: $29
  • Izmir Airport Private Transfer to City Center Hotels: $41
  • Bodrum Airport Private Minivan By Meet Transfer: $42
  • Bodrum Airport Transfer Luxury Van Meet Transfer: $45
  • Izmir (ADB) Airport Private Arrival Transfer to Kusadasi: $45
  • Dalaman Airport Transfer Private and Comfortable Meet Transfer: $45
  • Izmir Airport Transfer Meet Transfer: $50
  • İzmir Airport Transfer to Bodrum, Didim, Kusadasi, Cesme, Fethiye: $51
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Cruise Port to Izmir City Hotels: $53
  • VIP Mercedes Vito Transfers in Izmir or Intercity: $57
  • Izmir Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer from/to Kusadasi: $57
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Izmir Port: $58

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergen:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Airport BGO to Bergen by Car: $156
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen City by Minibus: $154
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Bergen Cruise Port to Bergen City by Sedan: $123
  • BGO Airport Private Transfer to/from City Center: $54
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Airport BGO by Minibus: $217
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Airport BGO by Minivan: $165
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Cruise Port by Sedan: $123
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen City to Bergen Cruise Port by luxury van: $134
  • Departure Private Transfer from Bergen to Bergen Airport BGO by business sedan: $144
  • Private One-Way Bergen Airport and City Transfers: $112
  • Private Transfer From Bergen Airport to City Centre: $102
  • TRANSFER, LUXURY CAR 1-3 PAX: Bergen airport transfer: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Bergen?

Prices for flights to both Bergen 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 $29
    Bergen $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Izmir

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

  • Urla Michelin Guide Food Tour with Local Expert: $99
  • Authentic Dinner Cooking with a Local Family in İzmir: $115
  • Private Food tour in Europe and Asian Side of Istanbul: $295

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergen

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

  • Bergen Food Tour: $182
  • A Taste of Bergen Food Tour with Floibanen Funicular: $227

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $14
    Bergen $19

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
  • Marmaris All Inc Full Day Boat Tour Swim Sunbathe and Explore: $33
  • 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
  • Ephesus Tour: $65
  • Full Day Marmaris Pirate Boat Tour with Lunch: $65
  • Private Tour: Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary from Izmir Port: $70

Tours and Activities in Bergen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bergen are as follows:

  • Wolves, Vikings, Cod and Cannonballs Self Guided Tour of Bergen: $5.39
  • Bergen Self-Guided Tour at Bryggen and Old Town, Audio and Quiz: $6.58
  • Bergen's University District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Bergen Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour: $7.40
  • Walking Tour of Central Bergen: $18
  • Bergen Troll Museum Entry Ticket: $27
  • City Walking Tour - Bergen On Foot: $34
  • Group City Tour- Walking: $35
  • Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present: $38
  • Bergen Walking Tour: Explore Top Sights & Hidden Gems: $45
  • Bergen Beyond Respectability: Sinners, Saints and Scandals Tour: $60
  • The best of Bergen with Merete -a truly local experience: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.04
    Bergen $7.93

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: $276


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Bergen?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bergen. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Bergen, 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 Bergen?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Izmir or Bergen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Bergen. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Izmir this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bergen for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Izmir is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 28°C (82°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than Bergen. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Bergen 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Bergen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Bergen. Many travelers come to Izmir for the city's sights and attractions. Additionally, many visitors come to Bergen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Izmir is much warmer than Bergen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bergen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. Izmir usually gets less rain in October than Bergen. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Bergen 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Bergen in the Winter?

Both Bergen and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Izmir in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bergen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bergen can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Izmir is much warmer than Bergen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Izmir in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Bergen averages at about 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. It's quite rainy in Izmir. In January, Izmir usually receives less rain than Bergen. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Bergen 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Bergen in the Spring?

Both Bergen and Izmir during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Izmir for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm.

In April, Izmir is generally much warmer than Bergen. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 16°C (61°F), and Bergen fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Izmir usually gets less rain in April than Bergen. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bergen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Bergen 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Bergen and Izmir

Izmir Bergen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)