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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure? 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 bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a relaxing, beautiful, and scenic area. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure are popular destinations, Thessaloniki has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Finale Ligure attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Finale Ligure and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Finale Ligure is famous for its sandy beaches and great food.

How is Thessaloniki different from Finale Ligure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Finale Ligure offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.


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

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure both to be high quality destinations.

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.

Dining out in Finale Ligure is an experience not to be missed. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

Is Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Thessaloniki is a great destination for nightlife. However, Finale Ligure is a area with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Finale Ligure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure Better for Resorts?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.


Is Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Finale Ligure is considered a top beach destination. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Hiking?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Thessaloniki is a great destination for shopping. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Finale Ligure. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.


Is Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure 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, Finale Ligure is very family-friendly. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

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

Finale Ligure makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Thessaloniki is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Finale Ligure is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.


Is Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Thessaloniki is a great destination for students. However, Finale Ligure 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.

Finale Ligure is not popular with students.

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

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure.

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 Finale Ligure, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both trains and buses through the area.

Is Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Finale Ligure

Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Finale Ligure is a somewhat walkable city. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.


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

Should I spend more time in Finale Ligure or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

It's fun to spend time in either Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Thessaloniki. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Finale Ligure, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic area 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 Finale Ligure?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Finale Ligure is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Finale Ligure?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Finale Ligure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Finale Ligure?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Thessaloniki. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Finale Ligure 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure is €143. 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 Finale Ligure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Finale Ligure 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Finale Ligure 148
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure? 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 Finale Ligure


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 Finale Ligure Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Finale Ligure 56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • From Private Day Trip to Meteora with Transfer: $428
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Private Transfer from Kavala to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $237
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Ammon Zeus Hotel : $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Resort: $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $254
  • Private Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport from Thessaloniki City: $120
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $87
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki Port: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

Prices for flights to both Finale Ligure 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
    Finale Ligure 34

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
    Finale Ligure 28

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Finale Ligure 6.99

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


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


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Finale Ligure. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure, 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 Finale Ligure?

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 Finale Ligure in the Summer?

Both Finale Ligure and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Finale Ligure this time of year.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Finale Ligure, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Finale Ligure. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Finale Ligure receives 295 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Finale Ligure. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Finale Ligure 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Finale Ligure. 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 Finale Ligure for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Thessaloniki is cooler than Finale Ligure in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Finale Ligure during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Finale Ligure receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Finale Ligure. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Finale Ligure 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Finale Ligure. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Finale Ligure in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Thessaloniki is much colder than Finale Ligure. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Finale Ligure averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Finale Ligure. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Finale Ligure receives 127 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Finale Ligure. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Finale Ligure 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Finale Ligure in the Spring?

Both Finale Ligure and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Finale Ligure for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Finale Ligure. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Finale Ligure fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Finale Ligure during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Finale Ligure receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Finale Ligure. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Finale Ligure receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Finale Ligure 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Finale Ligure and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Finale Ligure
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)