A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. Almeria for Food, Beaches, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Almeria?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Almeria? 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.

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.

Almeria

Almeria is a historic, natural, and breathtaking region. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Thessaloniki and Almeria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Almeria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Almeria, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Almeria is known for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. 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. Almeria is popular for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity.

How is Thessaloniki different from Almeria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Almeria 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, Almeria is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

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 Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Resorts?

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Almeria is a great choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Beaches?

Almeria 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 Almeria. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

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 Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for its Old Town?

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Hiking?

Almeria is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Almeria?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Families?

Almeria 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, Almeria is very family-friendly. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

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 Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Couples?

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

Almeria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

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 Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Almeria are both superb destinations 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.

Almeria is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Is Thessaloniki or Almeria Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for students. However, Almeria 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.

Almeria is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Thessaloniki and Almeria.

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

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

Is Thessaloniki or Almeria a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Almeria is generally not a very walkable city. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Almeria or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Almeria?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thessaloniki and Almeria. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki than in Almeria. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-3 days is enough time in Almeria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Almeria 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 Thessaloniki or Almeria?

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.

In Almeria, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this historic region offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this region.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Almeria?

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.

Almeria is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Almeria?

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.

You'll find food and nightlife around the natural destination of Almeria. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Thessaloniki or Almeria?

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.

Almeria is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Almeria?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Almeria. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Almeria, 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 Thessaloniki or Almeria?

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 Thessaloniki or Almeria in the Summer?

Both Almeria and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Almeria. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Almeria averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Almeria. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 343 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Almeria. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Almeria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Almeria. The autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Almeria this time of year.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally cooler than Almeria. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Almeria during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 220 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Almeria. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Almeria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Almeria. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Almeria for the cuisine.

Thessaloniki is much colder than Almeria in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Almeria fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Almeria. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 186 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in January than Almeria. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Almeria in the Spring?

Both Almeria and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Almeria in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is cooler than Almeria. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Almeria averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Almeria during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 235 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Almeria. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Almeria and Thessaloniki