A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tallinn vs. Thessaloniki for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Thessaloniki, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a charming, quaint, and whimsical city. 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, shopping, 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.

Tallinn and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Tallinn, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thessaloniki is better known for its food, beaches, and big city activities, while Tallinn is more popular for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. 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 Tallinn different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn 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 Tallinn area. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Is Tallinn or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tallinn and Thessaloniki.

Tallinn has a large number of nightlife venues. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is not a beach destination.

Is Tallinn or Thessaloniki Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Tallinn is revered around the world. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Tallinn and Thessaloniki.

Tallinn is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Tallinn and Thessaloniki are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Tallinn is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Tallinn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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

Tallinn is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Tallinn is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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.

Is Tallinn or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

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

Tallinn 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 Tallinn can get you around easily. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Tallinn or Thessaloniki. In our opinion, Tallinn has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tallinn than Thessaloniki. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

In Tallinn, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this whimsical city 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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

Tallinn is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

Tallinn 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 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, and The Best Contiki Tours to Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Thessaloniki, we can see that Thessaloniki is more expensive. And not only is Tallinn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallinn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallinn 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 Tallinn.

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

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Thessaloniki?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn 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 Tallinn 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 Tallinn or Thessaloniki in the Summer?

Both Thessaloniki and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tallinn is much colder than Thessaloniki in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 17°C (62°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 Tallinn. Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Thessaloniki during summer. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 327 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tallinn usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tallinn or Thessaloniki in the Autumn?

Both Thessaloniki and Tallinn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Tallinn is much colder than Thessaloniki. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallinn in October average around 7°C (44°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Thessaloniki. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 159 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in October than Thessaloniki. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Thessaloniki in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Thessaloniki. The winter months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In January, Tallinn is generally much colder than Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around -5°C (22°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Thessaloniki during winter. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 101 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallinn usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tallinn or Thessaloniki in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Thessaloniki. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city.

It's quite cold in Tallinn in the spring. Tallinn is much colder than Thessaloniki in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 4°C (39°F) in April, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Tallinn often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Thessaloniki. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 196 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Thessaloniki. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Thessaloniki and Tallinn