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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne? 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Newcastle upon Tyne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its beaches and big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne is known for its historical sights. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Newcastle upon Tyne 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. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene.

How is Thessaloniki different from Newcastle upon Tyne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Is the Food Better in Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne both to be great 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 Newcastle upon Tyne is an experience not to be missed. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne have great 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 Newcastle upon Tyne know how to have a good time. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne make for a good 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne are great 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne can get you around easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Newcastle upon Tyne, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Many people visit Thessaloniki for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

The destination of Thessaloniki offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 84% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne in the Summer?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Newcastle upon Tyne. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 69 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Newcastle upon Tyne. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Newcastle upon Tyne. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold during winter. Thessaloniki is much warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Newcastle upon Tyne fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Newcastle upon Tyne. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Newcastle upon Tyne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Newcastle upon Tyne. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Newcastle upon Tyne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Newcastle upon Tyne averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Newcastle upon Tyne. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 134 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Newcastle upon Tyne. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Newcastle upon Tyne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newcastle upon Tyne and Thessaloniki