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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Nantes?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Nantes? 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.

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Nantes?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Nantes, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its beaches and big city activities, while Nantes is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Nantes and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Thessaloniki different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Thessaloniki and Nantes.

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.

Many visitors head to Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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

Nantes 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, Nantes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Nantes have very good 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 Nantes know how to have a good time. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Thessaloniki or Nantes Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Nantes is not a beach destination.

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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Nantes is a popular place for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nantes. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Nantes?

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

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 Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Nantes Better for Families?

Nantes 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, Nantes is very family-friendly. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes Better for Couples?

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

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Thessaloniki or Nantes Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Nantes is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Nantes can get you around easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Thessaloniki or Nantes a more walkable city?

Nantes 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.

Nantes is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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 Nantes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Nantes?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Nantes, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly 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 Nantes?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Nantes 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. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Nantes. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Nantes 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Nantes?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes 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 Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Nantes. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Nantes averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Nantes. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Nantes. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Nantes. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Nantes in the Winter?

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

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Nantes in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Nantes. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Nantes in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Nantes. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Nantes averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nantes. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Nantes. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nantes and Thessaloniki