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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Copenhagen? 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 high energy, bustling, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a happy, welcoming, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Copenhagen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Copenhagen than Thessaloniki. Copenhagen is bigger than Thessaloniki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its beaches. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Thessaloniki different from Copenhagen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Copenhagen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

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

Copenhagen 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, Copenhagen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

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 Copenhagen Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Copenhagen just to party. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Copenhagen Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Copenhagen Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Copenhagen. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Copenhagen draws large crowds to its stores. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Thessaloniki. 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.

Is Thessaloniki or Copenhagen Better for Families?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Copenhagen is a very family-friendly destination. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

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 Copenhagen Better for Couples?

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

Copenhagen makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Copenhagen are both excellent 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.

Copenhagen is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

Is Thessaloniki or Copenhagen Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Copenhagen are excellent 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.

Copenhagen is very popular with students. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

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

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Copenhagen can get you around easily. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

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 Copenhagen a more walkable city?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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 Copenhagen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Copenhagen or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

In either Thessaloniki or Copenhagen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen.

One day in Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

With museums and nightlife around the bustling city of Thessaloniki, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this laid-back city 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 Copenhagen?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Thessaloniki, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen?

Thessaloniki, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this happy destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

Thessaloniki is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Copenhagen 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 Denmark, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Copenhagen, 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 Copenhagen?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Copenhagen in the Summer?

Both Copenhagen and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Copenhagen in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Copenhagen in the Autumn?

Both Copenhagen and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Copenhagen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Copenhagen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Copenhagen. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Copenhagen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Copenhagen. The winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Copenhagen in the winter. In January, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Copenhagen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Copenhagen. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Thessaloniki is much warmer than Copenhagen in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Copenhagen. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Copenhagen and Thessaloniki