A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Thessaloniki for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thessaloniki. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a high energy, bustling, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Kalampaka (Meteora), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thessaloniki is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is well known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kalampaka (Meteora) are world-renowned. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Thessaloniki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Thessaloniki has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thessaloniki are notable family-friendly destinations.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a family-friendly destination. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thessaloniki both notable destinations for a couple.

Kalampaka (Meteora) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Thessaloniki is a good destination for couples to visit. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not popular with students.

Many students visit Thessaloniki. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not popular with students.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thessaloniki is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 2-4 days is enough time in Thessaloniki.

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

Couples should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Kalampaka (Meteora). 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), many people enjoy the museums and food that this dramatic destination offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Thessaloniki for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

You'll find museums and food around the dramatic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The destination of Thessaloniki offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thessaloniki, we can see that Thessaloniki 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki in the Summer?

Both Thessaloniki and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is around the same temperature as Thessaloniki in the summer. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Thessaloniki during summer. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 327 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Thessaloniki. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki in the Autumn?

Both Thessaloniki and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) is around the same temperature as Thessaloniki. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Thessaloniki. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 159 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets more rain in October than Thessaloniki. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thessaloniki. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 6°C (42°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Thessaloniki during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 101 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Thessaloniki. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Thessaloniki in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Thessaloniki. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is around the same temperature as Thessaloniki in the spring. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of the year. In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Thessaloniki. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 196 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in April than Thessaloniki. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Thessaloniki and Kalampaka (Meteora)