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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bordeaux? 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Bordeaux?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Thessaloniki, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bordeaux is better known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and beaches. Bordeaux is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Thessaloniki different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

Bordeaux 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, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Thessaloniki or Bordeaux Better for Beaches?

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

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is a popular place for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bordeaux. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Bordeaux?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Thessaloniki and Bordeaux.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Bordeaux.

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 Bordeaux. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Thessaloniki or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

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

Bordeaux makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

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 Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Thessaloniki or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Bordeaux are high quality destinations for students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you around easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Thessaloniki or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bordeaux is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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 Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Bordeaux?

In either Thessaloniki or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Thessaloniki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

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

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

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.

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. 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 Bordeaux?

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.

Bordeaux 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. 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 Bordeaux?

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.

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this romantic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Bordeaux?

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.

Bordeaux 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Bordeaux?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Bordeaux. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Bordeaux. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bordeaux during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Thessaloniki is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Bordeaux. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Bordeaux in the Spring?

Both Bordeaux and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bordeaux during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Thessaloniki