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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Marseille?

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

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

Marseille

Marseille is a energetic and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Thessaloniki and Marseille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Marseille?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Marseille. While Marseille is larger than Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Marseille is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Thessaloniki is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda. Marseille is popular for its unique history, its diverse population, and its authenticity.

How is Thessaloniki different from Marseille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marseille does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Marseille 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, Marseille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.

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 Marseille Better for Nightlife?

Marseille is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Marseille just to party. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Marseille Better for Beaches?

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

Marseille is a good option for a beach vacation. The city has nice beaches that offer both culture and diversity, which may be lacking some other coastal parts of the French Riviera.

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 Marseille Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Marseille is revered around the world. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Marseille?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Thessaloniki and Marseille.

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 Marseille. The city has boutiques, farmers markets, and flea markets to explore, as well as any luxury brand you may want.

Is Thessaloniki or Marseille Better for Christmas Markets?

Marseille is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Thessaloniki does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Marseille. The old town has a Christmas craft market where you can buy toys, Christmas treats, or decorations.

Thessaloniki does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Thessaloniki or Marseille Better for Families?

Thessaloniki is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Marseille is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Marseille doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Nearby beaches and an outdoor climbing area make it a diverse city to visit with kids.

Is Thessaloniki or Marseille Better for Couples?

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

Marseille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Strolling the boulevards and exploring the history and culture of this city make it a top couples' destination.

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 Marseille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Marseille is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Marseille is a good city to visit for backpackers. It has a decent number of hostels for a city of its size.

Is Thessaloniki or Marseille Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Marseille are very good 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.

Marseille is very popular with students. It attracts international students because of its rich culture, unique atmosphere, and lively bar scene.

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

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

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 Marseille, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Marseille a more walkable city?

Marseille is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Marseille is a very walkable city. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore 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 Marseille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Marseille or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Marseille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thessaloniki and Marseille. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki than in Marseille. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 2-3 days is enough time in Marseille.

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Marseille?

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 Marseille, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant 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 Marseille?

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.

Marseille 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 Marseille?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the energetic destination of Marseille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Marseille?

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.

Marseille 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 Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Marseille?

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

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 Marseille in the Summer?

Both Marseille and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Marseille in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Marseille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Marseille averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Marseille. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Marseille. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Marseille in the Autumn?

Both Marseille and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Marseille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Marseille. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Marseille fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Marseille, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 205 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Marseille. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Marseille in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Marseille. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Marseille because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Thessaloniki is cooler than Marseille in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Marseille fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Marseille during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Marseille receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Marseille. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Marseille in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Marseille. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marseille this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marseille. In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Marseille. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marseille receives 245 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Marseille. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Marseille receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Marseille and Thessaloniki