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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Oslo?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Oslo? 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 vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Oslo

Oslo is a green, clean, and progressive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife.

Thessaloniki and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Oslo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Thessaloniki than Oslo. While Oslo is larger than Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Oslo attracts visitors for its big city activities. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Oslo is famous for its Viking history, its locally caught seafood, its maritime museums, and its access to winter sports.

How is Thessaloniki different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Oslo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.

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

Thessaloniki is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Oslo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Thessaloniki or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is notable for nightlife. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Thessaloniki has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Oslo. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Thessaloniki or Oslo Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Oslo 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.

Oslo is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Oslo?

Thessaloniki is notable for shopping. However, Oslo is a mediocre city 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Oslo has some nice offerings. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Thessaloniki or Oslo Better for Families?

Oslo is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Oslo is a very family-friendly destination. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

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 Oslo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Oslo 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.

Oslo is a good city for couples to visit. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Thessaloniki or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is notable for backpackers. Also, Oslo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Oslo is a good city to visit for backpackers. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Thessaloniki or Oslo Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Oslo 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.

Oslo is very popular with students. The University of Oslo has an excellent reputation and welcomes many foreign students every year. The school does a lot to make sure international students feel at home here.

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

Oslo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Oslo can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

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 Oslo a more walkable city?

Oslo 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.

Oslo is a very walkable city. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun 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 Oslo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oslo or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Oslo?

In either Thessaloniki or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Oslo than Thessaloniki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-5 days is enough time in Oslo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Oslo. 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 Oslo 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 Oslo?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Oslo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Oslo?

Thessaloniki is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Oslo 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 Oslo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Oslo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Oslo?

The vibrant city of Thessaloniki offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Thessaloniki and Oslo, 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 Oslo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Oslo?

Oslo has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Oslo, 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 Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Oslo. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Oslo in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Oslo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Oslo. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Oslo in the Autumn?

Both Oslo and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Oslo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Thessaloniki is much warmer than Oslo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Oslo fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Oslo. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Oslo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Oslo can be very cold. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Oslo averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Oslo. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Oslo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Oslo. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Oslo. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Oslo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Oslo. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oslo and Thessaloniki