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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bellagio? 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.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a opulent, beautiful, and impressive town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and shopping.

Thessaloniki and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Bellagio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thessaloniki is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bellagio is more popular for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Bellagio is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is popular for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. 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 Thessaloniki different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.


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

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Bellagio both to be excellent destinations.

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.

Dining out in Bellagio is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Thessaloniki or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Thessaloniki is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options 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.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Thessaloniki or Bellagio Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

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

Bellagio is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Thessaloniki or Bellagio Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Bellagio.

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 Bellagio. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Thessaloniki or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

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

Bellagio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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 Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Thessaloniki is a great destination for backpackers. However, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Thessaloniki or Bellagio Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Thessaloniki is a great destination for students. However, Bellagio is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

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

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 Bellagio, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.


Is Thessaloniki or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Bellagio

Bellagio 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 Bellagio. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored 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 Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thessaloniki or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Thessaloniki than Bellagio 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 Bellagio.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Bellagio 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 Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

The city of Thessaloniki offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bellagio is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 Bellagio?

Thessaloniki is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Bellagio is a fun place to experience. 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 Bellagio?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Bellagio is a popular place to visit. 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 G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio 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 Bellagio is €222. 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 Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Bellagio? 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 Bellagio


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 Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Bellagio 9.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

Also for Thessaloniki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Private Day Trip to Meteora with Transfer: $428
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Private Transfer from Kavala to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $237
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Ammon Zeus Hotel : $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Resort: $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $254
  • Private Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport from Thessaloniki City: $120
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $87
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki Port: $142

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $351
  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $382

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio 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
    Bellagio 46

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bellagio.

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $191
  • Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi: $209
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $534

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Bellagio -

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 Bellagio

Here are a few actual costs in Bellagio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bellagio Walking Tour + Lunch + Villa Balbianello: $315
  • Lake Como Sunset Boat Tour with Prosecco: $118
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $187
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $428
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $127
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $106
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $123
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $93
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $78
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $71
  • Shared Boat Tour from Bellagio: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Bellagio 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


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


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Bellagio?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Bellagio, 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 Bellagio?

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 Bellagio in the Summer?

Both Bellagio and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bellagio for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Bellagio in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Bellagio fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Bellagio, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Bellagio. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bellagio in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Bellagio. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bellagio because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Bellagio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Bellagio averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bellagio during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bellagio receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bellagio in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Bellagio. The winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bellagio this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bellagio in the winter. In January, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Bellagio. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Bellagio fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Bellagio. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Bellagio. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bellagio in the Spring?

Both Bellagio and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bellagio for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Bellagio in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Bellagio fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bellagio. In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)