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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Catania?

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

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

Catania

Catania is a lively, youthful, and fun port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Thessaloniki and Catania: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Catania?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Catania than Thessaloniki, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Catania is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, and hiking, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums and shopping. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Catania is well known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna.

How is Thessaloniki different from Catania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

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

Catania 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, Catania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

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 Catania Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Catania have great vibes after the sun sets.

Thessaloniki has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

The people in Catania know how to have a good time. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for Beaches?

Catania is a popular place for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Catania is a good option for a beach vacation. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for its Old Town?

Catania 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 Catania. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for Hiking?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Catania?

Thessaloniki is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for Families?

Catania is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Catania is very family-friendly. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. 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.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Catania make for a notable place to visit.

Thessaloniki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Catania is a good city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Catania are both great destinations for backpackers.

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

Catania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Thessaloniki or Catania Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Catania are great 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.

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

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

Catania 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 Catania can get you around easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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 Catania a more walkable city?

Catania 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.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access 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 Catania Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Catania or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Catania?

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

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Catania?

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 Catania, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic port city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 port city.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Catania?

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.

Catania is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Catania?

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 museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Catania?

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.

Catania is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Catania?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Catania. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Catania, 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 Catania?

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 Catania in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Catania. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Catania in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Catania fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Catania. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Catania. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 325 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Catania. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Catania receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Catania in the Autumn?

Both Catania and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is cooler than Catania. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Catania averages at about 19°C (67°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Catania during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Catania. In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Catania. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Catania receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Catania in the Winter?

Both Catania and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Thessaloniki is generally much colder than Catania. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Catania fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Catania. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Catania receives 153 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Catania. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Catania receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Catania in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Catania. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Catania in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Catania fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Catania during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Catania receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Catania. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Catania receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Catania and Thessaloniki