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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Pamplona?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pamplona? 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Pamplona?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pamplona than Thessaloniki. While Thessaloniki is larger than Pamplona, Pamplona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pamplona is better known for its historical sights and hiking, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, beaches, and shopping. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Thessaloniki different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Pamplona both to be high quality 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 Pamplona is an experience not to be missed. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Pamplona have high quality 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 Pamplona know how to have a good time. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

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.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Pamplona?

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Thessaloniki is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Pamplona.

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 Pamplona. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Pamplona make for a notable 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Pamplona are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Pamplona is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for students. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and Pamplona.

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 Pamplona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Thessaloniki or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is a very walkable city. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city 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 Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thessaloniki or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Thessaloniki than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

The city of Thessaloniki offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this laid-back city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Pamplona?

Thessaloniki is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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.

Pamplona is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Pamplona?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Pamplona?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Pamplona is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Pamplona?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Pamplona. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Pamplona. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Thessaloniki is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Pamplona. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Thessaloniki