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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bamberg? 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 vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Thessaloniki and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Bamberg is famous for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is Thessaloniki different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Thessaloniki can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Thessaloniki makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Thessaloniki offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Bamberg is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. 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.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.


Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

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

The historic old town of Bamberg is revered around the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Thessaloniki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Bamberg.

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 Bamberg. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.


Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

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

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Bamberg is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with 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.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Thessaloniki and Bamberg.

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 Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Is Thessaloniki or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Bamberg

Bamberg 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 Bamberg. The old town is compact enough to easily 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 Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Thessaloniki or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic town offers. 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 Bamberg?

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.

Bamberg 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 Bamberg?

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 shopping around the scenic destination of Bamberg. 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 Bamberg?

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.

Bamberg 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Thessaloniki?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thessaloniki is €134, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is €127. 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 Thessaloniki and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Bamberg? 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 Thessaloniki


Hotels in Bamberg


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: Thessaloniki Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Bamberg 14

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: $32
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Thessaloniki Airport or Cruise Port Private Departure Transfer: $44
  • Thessaloniki Airport - Sani Transfer: $81
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Portes Lithos Luxury Resort Private Transfer: $82
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Ikos Oceania Hotel Private Transfer: $87
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Thessaloniki 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
    Thessaloniki 42
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

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

  • Open Market Food Tour with Tasting: $48
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $49
  • Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family: $63
  • Guided Food Tour: $70
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $71
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $87
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $95
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $95
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $95
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $97
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Bamberg 17

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: $3.21
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • White Tower Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour & Narrative: $11
  • Selfie Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket: $12
  • Thessaloniki Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Byzantine Museum E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • E-ticket to Museum of Byzantine Culture with Audio Tour : $13
  • Thessaloniki Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $17

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Bamberg 19

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
  • From Pella-Edessa wine tasting: $64
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $81
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $91
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $93
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $207

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When comparing the travel costs between Thessaloniki and Bamberg, 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 Thessaloniki Expensive? and Is Bamberg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Bamberg?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Bamberg. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bamberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Bamberg. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Bamberg. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Bamberg. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Bamberg. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)