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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Beaune?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Beaune? 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Beaune

Beaune is a quaint, vineyard-filled, and cultural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Beaune: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Beaune?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Beaune, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thessaloniki is better known for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Beaune is more popular for its food, historical sights, and small town charm. 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. Beaune is well known for its surrounding vineyards and world-renowned wines.

How is Thessaloniki different from Beaune?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Many visitors head to Beaune specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights and museums around town include Hôtel-Dieu (a former hospital), Château de Savigny, and Château de la Rochepot.

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

Beaune 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, Beaune is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

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 Beaune Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Beaune has a few options to choose from. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

Is Thessaloniki or Beaune Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Beaune 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.

Beaune is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Beaune Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Beaune is revered around the world. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Beaune?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Beaune is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Thessaloniki is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Beaune has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Boutiques, wine shops, and independent vendors are fun to explore in town.

Is Thessaloniki or Beaune Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Beaune.

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 Beaune. The town has museums like Hospices de Beaune, Hotel-Dieu (a formal hospital), as well as vineyards that you can hike through. Many people enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride while they're in the region.

Is Thessaloniki or Beaune Better for Couples?

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

Beaune makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring vineyards, sipping French wine, and wandering through the charming old town. There are breathtaking hot air balloon rides and wonderful French restaurants that make for a romantic trip.

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 Beaune Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for backpackers. However, Beaune is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Beaune is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a charming town, but it's not on many backpacker's itineraries. There are also a limited number of hostels to choose from.

Is Thessaloniki or Beaune Better for Students?

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

Beaune is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and Beaune.

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 Beaune, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

Is Thessaloniki or Beaune a more walkable city?

Beaune 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 Beaune. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

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 Beaune Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaune or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Beaune?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Beaune, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vineyard-filled town 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.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Beaune?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Beaune 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. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Beaune?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quaint destination of Beaune. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Beaune?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Beaune 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Beaune, we can see that Beaune 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 Beaune would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaune 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 Beaune Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Beaune?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Beaune. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Beaune, 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 Beaune?

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 Beaune in the Summer?

Both Beaune 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 Beaune because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Beaune in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Beaune fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Beaune, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Beaune. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaune receives 266 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Beaune. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Beaune in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Beaune. The autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Beaune this time of year.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Beaune. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Beaune averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Beaune during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Beaune receives 121 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Beaune. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Beaune in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Beaune. In January, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Beaune. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Beaune fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Beaune. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaune receives 53 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Beaune. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Beaune in the Spring?

Both Beaune 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 Beaune in the spring for the small town charm.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Beaune in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Beaune fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Beaune during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Beaune receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Beaune. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Beaune receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Beaune and Thessaloniki