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

Should you visit Mombasa or Izmir?

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 Mombasa and Izmir. 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: Mombasa or Izmir?

Mombasa

Mombasa is a beautiful, large city on the eastern coast of Kenya, bordering the Indian Ocean. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, friendly locals, and diverse marine life. Mombasa experiences a tropical climate year round, meaning temperatures rarely drop below 70° Fahrenheit. The rainiest months of the year are April and May and the driest months are January and February. Temperatures tend to be more mild from May through October, usually in the 70's and 80's. Temperatures get much warmer from November through April, with daily averages reaching the high 90's.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to Kenya, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Kenya, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul.


Which place is cheaper, Izmir or Mombasa?

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 Mombasa is $81, 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 Mombasa and Izmir in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mombasa $26
    Izmir $43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mombasa $52
    Izmir $86
Compare Hotels in Mombasa and Izmir

Looking for a hotel in Mombasa 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 Mombasa


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: Mombasa Hotel Prices and Izmir Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mombasa $18
    Izmir $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mombasa

Also for Mombasa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Diani Mombasa Moi Int Airport Transfer: $160
  • Diani Taxi and Airport Transfers: $70
  • DianiBeach: Private Transfer from Airport or Railway Station: $70
  • From Mombasa Airport: Diani transfer in a minivan (5 pax): $75
  • Mombasa Airport (MBA) to Mombasa - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $73
  • Mombasa Airport Private Transfer To Nyali/bamburi/shanzu: $37
  • Mombasa Airport Private Transfer to Diani Beach: $81
  • Mombasa Airport Private Transfers To Malindi Hotels: $142
  • Mombasa Kenya Minivan Airport Transfer: $100
  • Mombasa to Mombasa Airport (MBA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Private Arrival Transfer in Mombasa: $60
  • Private Departure Transfer in Mombasa: $80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • İzmir Airport Transfer to Bodrum, Didim, Kusadasi, Cesme, Fethiye: $51
  • İzmir Airport Private Transfer Service: $75
  • izmir kusadasi transfer: $71
  • Vip Airport Transfer: $71
  • VIP Private Transfer | Izmir Airport to Kusadasi or Selcuk: $170
  • VIP Mercedes Vito Transfers in Izmir or Intercity: $59
  • Transfer İzmir Airport to/from Kusadasi City Center Area: $81
  • Transfer to Izmir airport from Kusadasi: $81
  • Transfer From izmir Adnan Menderes Airport to Selcuk Ephesus: $88
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Gümüldür, Seferihisar: $131
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Ayvalik Resort: $242
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Airport to/from Manisa City: $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Mombasa or Izmir?

Prices for flights to both Izmir and Mombasa 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
    Mombasa $41
    Izmir $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mombasa

For Mombasa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mombasa Meals Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Swahili Cooking Class Experience with a Local Chef: $65
  • Tamarind Dhow Dinner Cruise & Nightlife: $137

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.
    Mombasa $18
    Izmir $14

Tours and Activities in Mombasa

For Mombasa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Mombasa Guided City Tour Experience: $25
  • Sunset Canoe Tour on a River within the Mangroves: $28
  • Tusks, Fort Jesus, Old Town, Beach and City Tour: $30
  • Mombasa city tour: $30
  • Kongo River Sunset Experience in Canoe: $32
  • Mombasa walking tour: $35
  • Mombasa old town Walking Tour and Fort Jesus: $38
  • Private Mombasa Food & Sightseeing Tour: $39
  • Mombasa City Tour: $40
  • Private Mombasa City Tour Watamu Diani and Malindi: $40
  • Half day city tour of mombasa: $40
  • Quasar Tours and Safaris: $40

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
    Mombasa $8.83
    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 comparing the travel costs between Mombasa and Izmir, we can see that Izmir is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Mombasa is in Africa and Izmir is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Mombasa or Izmir?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Mombasa. When comparing the sizes of Mombasa 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 Mombasa or Izmir?

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

Should I visit Mombasa or Izmir in the Summer?

Both Izmir and Mombasa during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Mombasa because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Izmir this time of year.

In July, Mombasa is generally cooler than Izmir. Daily temperatures in Mombasa average around 24°C (75°F), and Izmir fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mombasa. In the summer, Mombasa often gets less sunshine than Izmir. Mombasa gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 378 hours of full sun.

Mombasa usually gets more rain in July than Izmir. Mombasa gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mombasa 24°C (75°F) 
    Izmir 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Mombasa or Izmir in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mombasa and Izmir. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Mombasa year-round. Also, many travelers come to Izmir for the city's sights and attractions.

Mombasa is a little warmer than Izmir in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mombasa averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Izmir fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Izmir this time of the year. In Mombasa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mombasa usually receives more sunshine than Izmir during autumn. Mombasa gets 291 hours of sunny skies, while Izmir receives 232 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Mombasa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Mombasa usually receives more rain than Izmir. Mombasa gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mombasa 26°C (79°F) 
    Izmir 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Mombasa or Izmir in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mombasa as well as Izmir. Mombasa attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Izmir in the winter for the cuisine.

In the winter, Mombasa is much warmer than Izmir. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mombasa in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Izmir averages at about 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mombasa this time of the year. In the winter, Mombasa often gets more sunshine than Izmir. Mombasa gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Izmir receives 131 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Izmir. Mombasa usually gets less rain in January than Izmir. Mombasa gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mombasa 27°C (81°F) 
    Izmir 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Mombasa or Izmir in the Spring?

Both Izmir and Mombasa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Mombasa throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Izmir for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Mombasa is generally much warmer than Izmir. Daily temperatures in Mombasa average around 27°C (81°F), and Izmir fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Izmir. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mombasa. Mombasa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Izmir during spring. Mombasa gets 230 hours of sunny skies, while Izmir receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Mombasa. In April, Mombasa usually receives more rain than Izmir. Mombasa gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Izmir receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mombasa 27°C (81°F) 
    Izmir 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Izmir and Mombasa

Mombasa Izmir
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 27°C (81°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 26°C (79°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 24°C (75°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 50 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 26°C (79°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in)