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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Dijon?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dijon? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dijon

Dijon is a relaxing, historical, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Dijon: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Dijon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Dijon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Dijon attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Dijon is famous for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards.

How is Thessaloniki different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki
Dijon

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

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 Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.


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

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Dijon 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, Dijon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Thessaloniki is notable for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Thessaloniki has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Thessaloniki or Dijon Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Dijon is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. 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.

Dijon is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Dijon?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

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

Thessaloniki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Thessaloniki or Dijon Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Dijon.

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 Dijon. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Thessaloniki or Dijon Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

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

Dijon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

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 Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Thessaloniki is notable for backpackers. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Thessaloniki or Dijon Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Thessaloniki is notable for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Thessaloniki and Dijon.

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 Dijon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.


Is Thessaloniki or Dijon a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Dijon

Thessaloniki and Dijon are nice when it comes to walkability.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable place. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the inner city is walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting? and Is Dijon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Thessaloniki or Dijon. In our opinion, Thessaloniki has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Thessaloniki than Dijon. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Dijon?

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this bustling 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 Dijon, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural 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 Dijon?

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.

Dijon 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 Dijon?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Dijon. 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 Dijon?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling 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.

Dijon 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Dijon 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 Dijon is €153. 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 Dijon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Dijon 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Dijon 160
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Dijon

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Dijon? 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 Dijon


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 Dijon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Dijon 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Kavala: $18
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) - Departure Transfer: $21
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Thessaloniki Airport Private Transfer Service: $32
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Thessaloniki Airport or Cruise Port Private Departure Transfer: $44
  • Thessaloniki Airport - Sani Transfer: $81
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Portes Lithos Luxury Resort Private Transfer: $82
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Ikos Oceania Hotel Private Transfer: $87
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dijon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dijon:

  • 2 Hour Private Tour of Dijon - with Hotel Transfer: $427

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Dijon?

Prices for flights to both Dijon 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
    Dijon 48

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Dijon 25

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 Dijon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dijon are as follows:

  • Best of Burgundy Private Tasting Tour - Premier & Grand Crus: $1,273
  • DIJON : Private Walking Tour: $176
  • Dijon : City Walking Tour with Audio Guide (Office Tourisme): $7.49
  • Dijon City Tour : Highlights Tour with Gourmet Break: $60
  • Dijon Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Dijon private guided city tour: $383
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour through the City: $5.99
  • Bike tour and Tastings in the Vineyards of Burgundy: $71
  • City Tour with a French-speaking Guide: $13
  • Historic Guided Walking Tour: $384
  • E-bike Burgundy day tour, tastings & lunch from Beaune or Dijon: $240
  • Half Day Tour of the Cote de Nuits Vineyards from Dijon: $97

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Dijon 29

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Dijon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dijon:

  • ✨ Masterclass Chardonnay - Wine tasting in Dijon : $37
  • Chardonnay Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Pinot Noir Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Cheese and Burgundy Wine Tasting Workshop: $48
  • Wine Tasting Workshop with Tastings: $48
  • La Cave du Palais Burgundy Wine Tasting Experience: $59
  • Bike Tour with Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting: $66
  • Small-Group Burgundy Tour with Wine Tastings from Dijon: $74
  • Small group Burgundy tour of Beaune with Wine Tasting from Dijon: $95


When comparing the travel costs between Thessaloniki and Dijon, we can see that Dijon 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 Dijon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Dijon?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Dijon. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dijon this time of year.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dijon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Dijon. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Dijon 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dijon in the Autumn?

Both Dijon and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Dijon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Dijon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Dijon. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Dijon 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dijon in the Winter?

Both Dijon and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dijon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Dijon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Dijon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Dijon. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Dijon. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Dijon 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dijon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Dijon. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Dijon during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Dijon. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Dijon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Dijon and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Dijon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)