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

Should you visit Izmir or Kaunas?

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 Kaunas. 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.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a cultural, active, and young city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

Izmir and Kaunas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Izmir or Kaunas?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Kaunas than Izmir. While Izmir is larger than Kaunas, Kaunas has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Kaunas is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Izmir is more popular for its food. Kaunas is more touristy than Izmir and is known for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town. Also, Kaunas is famous for The Kaunas Old Town. Izmir is well known for

How is Izmir different from Kaunas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kaunas and Izmir. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Izmir
Kaunas

Izmir is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kaunas 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 Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.


Is Izmir or Kaunas Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Kaunas

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

Kaunas has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Kaunas Better for its Old Town?

Izmir
Kaunas

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

Many visitors go to Kaunas to see the historical old town. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.

Izmir does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Izmir or Kaunas?

Izmir
Kaunas

Kaunas is a city with a few options for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Izmir or Kaunas Better for Families?

Izmir
Kaunas

Izmir is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Izmir is known to be 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.

Kaunas is a family-friendly . The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.

Is Izmir or Kaunas Better for Couples?

Izmir
Kaunas

Izmir is a good destination for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Izmir is a good for couples to visit. 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.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

Is Izmir or Kaunas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Izmir
Kaunas

Izmir is notable for backpackers. Also, Kaunas 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.


Is Izmir or Kaunas Better for Students?

Izmir
Kaunas

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

Kaunas is popular with students. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.

Izmir is not popular with students.

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

Izmir
Kaunas

Izmir is notable for its public transit. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Izmir. 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.

Kaunas has some public transit options. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

Is Izmir or Kaunas a more walkable city?

Izmir
Kaunas

Izmir and Kaunas both are notable when exploring on foot.

Izmir is somewhat walkable. 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.

Kaunas is a somewhat walkable place. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.


Should I spend more time in Kaunas or Izmir?

How long in Izmir or Kaunas?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Izmir than Kaunas 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 Izmir.


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

One day in Izmir or Kaunas?


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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 Kaunas, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this young 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 Kaunas?


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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 Kaunas. 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 Kaunas?


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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.

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


A week in Izmir or Kaunas?


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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 nightlife around the active destination of Kaunas. 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 Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius.


Which place is cheaper, Kaunas 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 $81, while the average daily cost in Kaunas is $131. 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 Kaunas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $40
    Kaunas $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $80
    Kaunas $94
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Kaunas

Looking for a hotel in Izmir or Kaunas? 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 Kaunas


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 Kaunas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $20
    Kaunas $16

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 Izmir, Kusadasi or Cesme: $35
  • Dalaman Airport Transfer Private and Comfortable Meet Transfer: $41
  • Bodrum Airport Private Minivan By Meet Transfer: $42
  • Bodrum Airport Transfer Luxury Van Meet Transfer: $44
  • Izmir Airport Transfer Meet Transfer: $48
  • İzmir Airport Transfer to Bodrum, Didim, Kusadasi, Cesme, Fethiye: $49
  • Izmir Airport Private Transfer With Professional Driver: $50
  • Izmir Airport Private Transfer to City Center Hotels: $52
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Cruise Port to Izmir City Hotels: $52
  • Private Transfer from Izmir city Hotels to Izmir Cruise Port: $52
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport (ADB) to Izmir Cruise Port: $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kaunas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kaunas:

  • CO2-Offset Departure Transfer Kaunas City to Kaunas Airport KUN: $68
  • CO2-Offset Private Transfer from Kaunas to Kaunas Airport KUN: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Izmir or Kaunas?

Prices for flights to both Kaunas 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
    Kaunas $65

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: $115
  • Private Food tour in Europe and Asian Side of Istanbul: $286

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $14
    Kaunas $20

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

  • Self-Guided Podcast Tour The Ascent of Karataş: $5.49
  • 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
  • Izmir : Ephesus and Sirince Guided Tour: $45
  • Marmaris Turtle Beach Dalyan River Cruise and Mud Bath Adventure: $46
  • Izmir City Tour with a Professional Guide: $46
  • Marmaris All Inc Full Day Boat Tour Swim Sunbathe and Explore: $54
  • Pamukkale Small Group Tour from Antalya: $56
  • From Ephesus, Virgin Mary House, & Sirince Tour: $60
  • Ephesus Tour: $63

Tours and Activities in Kaunas

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

  • Best of A Modernism and Medieval History Self Guided tour: $15
  • Secrets of Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $23
  • Immersive VR Cultural Experience in Kaunas: $23
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $53
  • Kaunas Old Town tour + IX Fort Museum (BONUS): $57
  • Kaunas Old Town Tour: Local Secrets & Hidden Corners: $58
  • Recreational Tour in Kaunas - The City of Freedom: $68
  • 1 day Self-Guided Bike Tour with Train Tickets: $68
  • Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide in Kaunas: $80
  • Kaunas : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour with a Local Guide: $115
  • Pažaislis Monastery and Church Guided Tour: $127
  • Kaunas Old Town and Aleksotas tour: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $5.84
    Kaunas $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

  • Izmir Port Ephesus Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $113
  • Wine Tour with Metropolis Ancient City: $120


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


Which is Bigger, Izmir or Kaunas?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Kaunas. When comparing the sizes of Izmir and Kaunas, 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 Kaunas?

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 Kaunas in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Kaunas. The summer months attract visitors to Izmir because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year.

In July, Izmir is generally much warmer than Kaunas. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 28°C (82°F), and Kaunas fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kaunas this time of the year. In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Kaunas during summer. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Kaunas receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Izmir usually receives less rain than Kaunas. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Kaunas 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Kaunas in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Kaunas. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Izmir this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kaunas for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Izmir is much warmer than Kaunas in the autumn. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Kaunas fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. In the autumn, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Kaunas. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kaunas receives 99 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in October than Kaunas. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Kaunas 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Kaunas in the Winter?

Both Kaunas and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Izmir for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kaunas in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Kaunas can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Izmir is much warmer than Kaunas. Typically, the winter temperatures in Izmir in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Kaunas averages at about -5°C (23°F).

Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Kaunas during winter. Izmir gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Kaunas receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Izmir. In January, Izmir usually receives more rain than Kaunas. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Kaunas -5°C (23°F)

Should I visit Izmir or Kaunas in the Spring?

Both Kaunas and Izmir during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Izmir in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Kaunas for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Izmir is generally much warmer than Kaunas. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 16°C (61°F), and Kaunas fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. In the spring, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Kaunas. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kaunas receives 175 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kaunas. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Kaunas 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Kaunas and Izmir

Izmir Kaunas
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) -5°C (23°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) -4°C (25°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 0°C (33°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) -2°C (28°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)