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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Avignon?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Avignon? 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 high energy, bustling, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Avignon

Avignon is a charming, scenic, and picturesque town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Thessaloniki and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Avignon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Avignon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Avignon is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. 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. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Thessaloniki different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Avignon 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 Avignon?

Avignon 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 Avignon are world-renowned. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Thessaloniki or Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon 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, Avignon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

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 Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Thessaloniki or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Avignon is revered around the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Avignon?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Thessaloniki or Avignon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Avignon.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Thessaloniki or Avignon Better for Couples?

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

Avignon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

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 Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Thessaloniki or Avignon Better for Students?

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

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Thessaloniki or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon 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 Avignon. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thessaloniki or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Thessaloniki than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

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

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

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

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.

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 town.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Avignon?

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.

Avignon 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.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Avignon?

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.

Avignon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

A week in Thessaloniki or Avignon?

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.

Avignon 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.

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 in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Avignon, we can see that Avignon is more expensive. And not only is Thessaloniki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Thessaloniki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Thessaloniki 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 Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon than you might in Thessaloniki.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Avignon?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Thessaloniki or Avignon in the Summer?

Both Avignon and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Avignon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Avignon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Avignon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Avignon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Avignon. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Avignon in the Autumn?

Both Avignon and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Avignon. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Avignon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Avignon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Avignon. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Avignon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Avignon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Thessaloniki is cooler than Avignon in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Avignon. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Avignon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Avignon. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Avignon in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Avignon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Avignon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Avignon. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Thessaloniki