A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Paros vs. Thessaloniki for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Paros 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 Paros 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.

Paros

Paros is a striking, historical, and diverse island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

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.

Paros and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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


Is there more to do in Paros or Thessaloniki?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paros than Thessaloniki, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paros is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its big city activities. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Also, Paros is famous for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Paros different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paros
Thessaloniki

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Paros and Thessaloniki.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Paros. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Thessaloniki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Paros or Thessaloniki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros 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, Paros is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

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 Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Thessaloniki

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Thessaloniki.

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

Thessaloniki is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Resorts?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Paros is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.


Is Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros 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 Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paros. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

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 Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Hiking?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Thessaloniki?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Paros and Thessaloniki.

Paros is well-known for its shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

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 Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

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 Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Paros
Thessaloniki

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

Paros makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

Thessaloniki is a good 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 Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros and Thessaloniki are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Thessaloniki is a very popular island 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.

Is Paros or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros 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.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Paros can get you around easily. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.


Is Paros or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Paros
Thessaloniki

Paros and Thessaloniki are notable when it comes to walkability.

Paros is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Paros?

How long in Paros or Thessaloniki?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paros 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 Paros.


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

One day in Paros or Thessaloniki?

In Paros, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this stunning island offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paros or Thessaloniki?

Paros 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.

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

In Paros, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this striking destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Thessaloniki?

Paros is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Greece, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Thessaloniki or Paros?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paros is €122, 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 Paros and Thessaloniki in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Thessaloniki 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Thessaloniki 158
Compare Hotels in Paros and Thessaloniki

Looking for a hotel in Paros 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 Paros


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: Paros Hotel Prices and Thessaloniki Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Thessaloniki 13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • Transfer from airport Thessaloniki (SKG) to Kalithea chalkidiki: $166
  • Transfer from Thessaloniki to Ikos Olivia: $200
  • Transfer from Thessaloniki to Ikos Oceania: $155
  • Transfer from SKG Thesaloniki airport to Thessaloniki city hotels: $44
  • Bus Transfer to/from Kavala: $18
  • Thessaloniki to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) - Departure Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki city from or to SKG airport transfer: $50
  • Thessaloniki Cruise Port: Transfer to Thessaloniki city: $145
  • Thessaloniki Airport to TUI Blue Lagoon Hotels Private Transfer: $94
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Hotels Private Transfer: $100
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Porto Carras Hotels Private Transfer: $166
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Portes Lithos Luxury Resort Private Transfer: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Thessaloniki?

Prices for flights to both Thessaloniki and Paros 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
    Paros 45
    Thessaloniki 42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paros

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

  • Two and half-hours Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Amorgos: $60
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $97
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $115
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $653

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.
    Paros 22
    Thessaloniki 26

Tours and Activities in Paros

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

  • 5 Hours Private Guided Tour Around Santorini : $115
  • From Antiparos and Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise: $98
  • Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Amorgos: $90
  • Hiking tour on Kythnos: $50
  • Kea Food-e-bike Tour: $78
  • One Day Cruise to Koufonissi from Paros Island: $62
  • Paros Highlights Private Tour: $640
  • Paros Island Highlights Bus Tour & Boat Trip to Antiparos: $76
  • Antiparos luxury private Boat tour: $545
  • Catamaran Cruise with Swimming, Meal and Drinks: $294
  • Full-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise: $201
  • Horse Riding Adventure: $82

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

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

  • Private Motorcycle Tour in Thessaloniki: $67
  • “Food Bites” - Walk & Taste Experience: $87
  • 4 Hours Private Thessaloniki City Tour: $200
  • 4-Hour Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage Private Guided Tour: $166
  • Archery Odyssey Traditional Archery Experience: $53
  • Best of Private Guided Tour: $196
  • Best of Private Guided Tour: $222
  • Best of Small Group Historical and Cultural Tour on foot : $94
  • Charming pearls of Thessaloniki – Romantic Tour: $155
  • City Sightseeing Thessaloniki Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $18
  • Daily Sailing Cruise Olympus Riviera Highlights: $109
  • Day Tour at Royal Tombs of Aigai and Museum of Pella with pickup: $94

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Thessaloniki 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

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

  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $169

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 Paros 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 Paros Expensive? and Is Thessaloniki Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paros or Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.