A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Mykonos vs. Thessaloniki for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Mykonos 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 Mykonos 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a party-oriented, ritzy, and opulent Greek island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Thessaloniki. Mykonos is bigger than Thessaloniki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Mykonos different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thessaloniki. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


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

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Mykonos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Mykonos just to party. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

The people in Thessaloniki know how to have a good time. 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 Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Mykonos is a great choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Mykonos is considered a top beach destination. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

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 Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.


Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is not a good area for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Mykonos draws large crowds to its stores. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.


Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Mykonos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Thessaloniki is a good Greek island 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 Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.


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

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Both Mykonos and Thessaloniki offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

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

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Thessaloniki

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Mykonos. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Thessaloniki. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mykonos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Thessaloniki.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Mykonos or Thessaloniki? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Thessaloniki 2-4

One day in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this ritzy Greek island offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Thessaloniki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Thessaloniki has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this ritzy destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens.


Which place is cheaper, Thessaloniki or Mykonos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €149, 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 Mykonos and Thessaloniki in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Thessaloniki 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Thessaloniki 158
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Thessaloniki

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos 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 Mykonos


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Thessaloniki Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Thessaloniki 13
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • Transfer services and Tours: $89
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Ftelia area up to 6 customers: $78
  • Transfer Service in Mykonos: $44
  • Sunset South Coast Sail Cruise with lunch,drinks, optional transfer : $122
  • Schatz Luxury Transfer : $89
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini van: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini bus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minivan: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minibus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:From your hotel to Windmills with mini van: $65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Kavala: $18
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) - Departure Transfer: $21
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Thessaloniki Airport Private Transfer Service: $33
  • Thessaloniki Airport Transfer Taxi-Minivan-Minibus : $33
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $42
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $42
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Port to Thessaloniki Airport: $42
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Round-Trip Transfer: $42
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Port to Thessaloniki hotels: $42
  • Thessaloniki Airport or Cruise Port Private Arrival Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Prices for flights to both Thessaloniki and Mykonos 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
    Mykonos 48
    Thessaloniki 42
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

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

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $71
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $72
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $102
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $110
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $111
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals: $133
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $144
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $163
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $200
  • Mykonos Cooking Class of Local Specialties: $222
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Food Professional: $224

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
  • Traditional Greek Dinner in Galatsi: $62
  • Guided Food Tour: $71
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $72
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $85
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $85
  • Thessaloniki Gastronomy & Culture Walking Food Tour: $87
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $88
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $88
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $89
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Thessaloniki 26

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • All Inclusive Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with S/Y Olga M: $155
  • Mykonos Deluxe Tour for the First-Time Cruisers: $86
  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $85
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $84
  • "Mykonos Private Tour: Town Wonders & Beach Break : $210
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $39
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $266
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Mykonos : $166
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $93
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $155
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $155
  • Ancient Delos Tour: $67

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: $3.27
  • Thessaloniki Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.66
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.08
  • White Tower Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.70
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour & Narrative: $11
  • Selfie Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Nestos River Zip Line Adventure: $11
  • Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket: $12
  • Thessaloniki Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Museum of Illusions Thessaloniki Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Thessaloniki 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

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

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $74
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $75
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $82
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $83
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $131
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $131
  • Wine Tasting In Mykonos with Greek Ancient varieties : $133
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Mykonos : $133

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

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

  • Friday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki: $25
  • Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki: $25
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $84
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $93
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $94
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $211
  • Wine Touring a Step Away from the city: $218


When comparing the travel costs between Mykonos and Thessaloniki, we can see that Mykonos 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 Mykonos Expensive? and Is Thessaloniki Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.