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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Lillehammer? 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.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Thessaloniki and Lillehammer: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Thessaloniki has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Lillehammer 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. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Thessaloniki different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lillehammer and Thessaloniki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Thessaloniki is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Lillehammer. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Thessaloniki is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

Thessaloniki is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Lillehammer both to be very good 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 Lillehammer is an experience not to be missed. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is well known for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Thessaloniki is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

Thessaloniki is well known for shopping. Also, Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Lillehammer 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, Lillehammer is very family-friendly. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

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 Lillehammer Better for Couples?

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

Lillehammer makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

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 Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

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

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 Lillehammer, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Thessaloniki or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki and Lillehammer are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable city. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Lillehammer 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.

One day in Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Thessaloniki. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lillehammer, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this natural city 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 Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Lillehammer?

The vibrant city of Thessaloniki offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lillehammer 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Lillehammer?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Lillehammer, 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.