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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Messina?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Messina? 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.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port 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.

Thessaloniki and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Messina?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Messina. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Messina 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. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Thessaloniki different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thessaloniki. 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.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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

Thessaloniki is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Thessaloniki makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Thessaloniki or Messina Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Messina 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 Messina know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Is Thessaloniki or Messina Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Thessaloniki and Messina are reasonable choices.

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.

The beach in Messina is worth checking out. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Messina?

Thessaloniki is well known for shopping. Also, Messina 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 Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Thessaloniki or Messina Better for Families?

Messina 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, Messina is very family-friendly. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Messina make for a nice place to visit.

Thessaloniki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Messina is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Thessaloniki or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Thessaloniki or Messina Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Thessaloniki. 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 Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

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

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

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 Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Thessaloniki or Messina a more walkable city?

Messina 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.

Messina is a very walkable port city. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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 Messina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Messina or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Messina?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Messina 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 Messina?

In Thessaloniki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Messina, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic port city offers. 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 Messina?

In Thessaloniki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Thessaloniki has to offer.

Messina is a fun place to experience. 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 Messina?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Messina. 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 Messina?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Messina is a popular place to visit. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Messina?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Messina, 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 Messina?

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 Messina in the Summer?

Both Messina and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Messina fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Messina. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Messina. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Messina in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Messina. 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 Messina because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Thessaloniki is cooler than Messina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Messina fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Messina during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Messina. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Messina in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Messina. The winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Messina this time of year.

In the winter, Thessaloniki is much colder than Messina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Messina averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Messina. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Messina. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Messina. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Messina in the Spring?

Both Messina and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally cooler than Messina. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Messina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Messina. Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Messina during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Messina. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Messina and Thessaloniki