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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Palermo?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Palermo? 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Thessaloniki and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Palermo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palermo than Thessaloniki, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki is known for its museums. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral.

How is Thessaloniki different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Palermo both to be excellent 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 Palermo is an experience not to be missed. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Palermo 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 Palermo know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few good snorkeling spots. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Palermo is considered a top beach destination. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

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 the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Palermo?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Thessaloniki and Palermo.

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 Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo Better for Families?

Palermo 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, Palermo is very family-friendly. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Palermo 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.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Thessaloniki is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Thessaloniki has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Thessaloniki or Palermo a more walkable city?

Palermo 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.

Palermo is a very walkable city. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Palermo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thessaloniki and Palermo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki than in Palermo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-3 days is enough time in Palermo.

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

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

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

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 Palermo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this dynamic city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Palermo?

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.

Palermo is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Palermo?

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 nightlife and food around the dynamic destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palermo?

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.

Palermo is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Palermo?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Palermo, 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 Palermo?

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 Palermo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Palermo. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Palermo averages at about 25°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Palermo. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Palermo in the Autumn?

Both Palermo and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Palermo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally cooler than Palermo. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Palermo during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Palermo. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

Thessaloniki is much colder than Palermo in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Palermo fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Palermo. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Palermo. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Palermo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Palermo. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Palermo averages at about 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Palermo during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Palermo. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Thessaloniki