A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Aegina vs. Thessaloniki for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Aegina or Thessaloniki? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a vibrant, fun, and active island. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aegina and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Aegina and Thessaloniki are both popular with visitors, Thessaloniki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thessaloniki is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Aegina is known for its beaches and small town charm. Aegina is popular for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Thessaloniki is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda.

How is Aegina different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Aegina or Thessaloniki.

Aegina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

Many visitors head to Thessaloniki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.


Is the Food Better in Aegina or Thessaloniki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

It's hard to distinguish whether Aegina or Thessaloniki has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aegina know how to have a good time. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

The nightlife in Thessaloniki has something for everybody. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Aegina is a popular place for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Aegina is a good option for a beach vacation. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

The beach in Thessaloniki is worth checking out. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.


Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Thessaloniki. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aegina. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aegina or Thessaloniki.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aegina. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Thessaloniki offers lots of family activities. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

With fun activities for couples, both Aegina and Thessaloniki make for a good place to visit.

Aegina is a good island for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Thessaloniki is a nice destination for couples. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.


Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a great destination for students. However, Aegina is not popular with students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Aegina is not popular with students.

Is Aegina or Thessaloniki Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aegina and Thessaloniki.

You'll find some public transit in Aegina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

While Thessaloniki offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.


Is Aegina or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Aegina
Thessaloniki

Aegina and Thessaloniki both are good when exploring on foot.

Aegina is a somewhat walkable island. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

Thessaloniki is somewhat walkable. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Aegina or Thessaloniki. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Thessaloniki.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Aegina 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 Thessaloniki.


  • How many days in Aegina or Thessaloniki? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aegina 1-2 
    Thessaloniki 2-4

One day in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

In Aegina, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant island offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Aegina is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Thessaloniki 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.


Five days in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Aegina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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

A week in Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Aegina is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Thessaloniki or Aegina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €92, while the average daily cost in Thessaloniki is €134. 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 Aegina and Thessaloniki in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Thessaloniki 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Thessaloniki 158
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Thessaloniki

Looking for a hotel in Aegina or Thessaloniki? 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 Aegina


Hotels in Thessaloniki


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: Aegina Hotel Prices and Thessaloniki Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Thessaloniki 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • From Private Day Trip to Meteora with Transfer: $434
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Private Airport Transfer in Macedonia: $66
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Halkidiki Area: $83
  • Private Transfer from Kavala to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $239
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia to Kalithea: $110
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Ammon Zeus Hotel : $110
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to City Center: $54
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Resort: $110
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $42
  • Private transfer from Thessaloniki airport to Sarti: $154
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Prices for flights to both Thessaloniki and Aegina 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
    Aegina 34
    Thessaloniki 42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

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

  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $49
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $50
  • Guided Food Tour: $71
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $72
  • Thessaloniki Gastronomy & Culture Walking Food Tour: $87
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $88
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $88
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $88
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $97
  • Thessaloniki Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $99
  • Guided Walking and Food Tour with Drinks: $119
  • Authentic Greek Cooking Classes: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Thessaloniki 26

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.06
  • White Tower Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.68
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour & Narrative: $11
  • Selfie Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket: $12
  • Thessaloniki Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Byzantine Museum E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • E-ticket to Museum of Byzantine Culture with Audio Tour : $13
  • Experience Ancient Greece: A Musical Journey: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aegina 8.57
    Thessaloniki 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

Also in Thessaloniki, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $92
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $94
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $209
  • Wine Touring a Step Away from the city: $216


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

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


Which is Bigger, Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Thessaloniki, 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 Aegina or Thessaloniki?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aegina or Thessaloniki in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Thessaloniki. The summer months attract visitors to Aegina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year.

In July, Aegina is generally around the same temperature as Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 27°C (81°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the summer, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Thessaloniki. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 327 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in July than Thessaloniki. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Thessaloniki in the Autumn?

Both Thessaloniki and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Aegina is a little warmer than Thessaloniki in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Thessaloniki during autumn. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aegina usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Thessaloniki in the Winter?

Both Thessaloniki and Aegina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aegina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Aegina is much warmer than Thessaloniki. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aegina in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Thessaloniki. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 101 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets more rain in January than Thessaloniki. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Thessaloniki in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Thessaloniki. Many visitors come to Aegina in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Aegina is generally a little warmer than Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 16°C (60°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Thessaloniki during spring. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 196 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aegina usually receives less rain than Thessaloniki. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Thessaloniki and Aegina

Aegina Thessaloniki
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)