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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Edinburgh?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Edinburgh? 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a character-filled, vibrant, and gothic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and theater.

Thessaloniki and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Edinburgh?

You'll generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Thessaloniki. Edinburgh is bigger than Thessaloniki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its food and beaches. Edinburgh is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Thessaloniki different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is an excellent place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Thessaloniki is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Thessaloniki is not a theatre destination.

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

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Thessaloniki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Edinburgh have excellent 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 Edinburgh know how to have a good time. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Edinburgh is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Thessaloniki is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Thessaloniki is not a live music destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

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

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Edinburgh is revered around the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Edinburgh?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Thessaloniki and Edinburgh.

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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and Edinburgh.

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 Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Thessaloniki or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Edinburgh?

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

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this character-filled 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant 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.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling 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 Edinburgh, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this charming 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 Edinburgh?

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.

Edinburgh 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Thessaloniki is much warmer than Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Edinburgh. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Edinburgh in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. In January, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Edinburgh. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Edinburgh in the Spring?

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

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

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Edinburgh. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Thessaloniki