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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik? 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Thessaloniki and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Thessaloniki and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thessaloniki is known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. It is also home to The Old Town Walls. Thessaloniki is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Thessaloniki different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Dubrovnik specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta 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 Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Thessaloniki has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Dubrovnik is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

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

Dubrovnik is a good option for a beach vacation. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

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 Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Dubrovnik is revered around the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

Thessaloniki is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is very family-friendly. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

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

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Dubrovnik is extremely popular for backpackers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

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

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Thessaloniki and Dubrovnik.

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 Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls 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 Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

In either Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Thessaloniki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Thessaloniki. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this coastal coastal town 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 coastal town.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Thessaloniki. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy city of Thessaloniki. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this charming 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. 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 Dubrovnik?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Dubrovnik 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 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Dubrovnik, we can see that Thessaloniki is more expensive. And not only is Dubrovnik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dubrovnik would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik?

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

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Dubrovnik. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dubrovnik. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Dubrovnik. 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 Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Thessaloniki is much colder than Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Thessaloniki during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Thessaloniki