A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Thessaloniki vs. Corfu for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Corfu?

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

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

Corfu

Corfu is a breathtaking, striking, and relaxing island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Thessaloniki and Corfu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Corfu?

Both Corfu and Thessaloniki have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Corfu is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape.

How is Thessaloniki different from Corfu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is a great city for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Thessaloniki can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Corfu 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, Corfu is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Corfu have very good 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 Corfu know how to have a good time. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Is Thessaloniki or Corfu Better for Resorts?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Corfu is a great choice. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Corfu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Corfu. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Corfu Better for Beaches?

Corfu is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Corfu. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

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 Corfu Better for Hiking?

Corfu is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

People visit Corfu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Corfu?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Thessaloniki and Corfu.

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 Corfu. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Is Thessaloniki or Corfu Better for Families?

Corfu 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, Corfu is a very family-friendly destination. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu Better for Couples?

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

Corfu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

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 Corfu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Corfu are both very good 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.

Corfu is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Is Thessaloniki or Corfu Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Corfu is not popular with students.

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

Corfu 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 Corfu can get you around easily. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu a more walkable city?

Corfu 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.

Corfu is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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 Corfu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Corfu or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Corfu?

Both Thessaloniki and Corfu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Thessaloniki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 5-7 days is enough time in Corfu.

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Corfu?

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Corfu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxing island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Corfu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Corfu is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Corfu?

Thessaloniki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Corfu, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Corfu?

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Corfu is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Greece, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Corfu, we can see that Thessaloniki is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu 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 Thessaloniki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thessaloniki than you might in Corfu.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Thessaloniki Expensive? and Is Corfu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Corfu?

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

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 Corfu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Corfu. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Corfu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Corfu in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Corfu fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Corfu this time of the year. In Thessaloniki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Corfu during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Corfu receives 358 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Corfu. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Corfu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Corfu. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is cooler than Corfu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Corfu averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Corfu. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Corfu receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Corfu. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Corfu. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Corfu in the Winter?

Both Corfu and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Corfu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Thessaloniki is generally much colder than Corfu. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Corfu fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Corfu during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Corfu receives 112 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Corfu. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Corfu in the Spring?

Both Corfu and Thessaloniki during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Corfu this time of year.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Corfu in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Corfu fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Corfu. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Corfu receives 195 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Corfu. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Corfu and Thessaloniki