A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pompeii? 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. Visitors also love the museums.

Thessaloniki and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Thessaloniki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thessaloniki is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Thessaloniki is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda.

How is Thessaloniki different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Pompeii are world-renowned. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Many visitors head to Thessaloniki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Thessaloniki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Thessaloniki or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Thessaloniki or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Thessaloniki. 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Thessaloniki or Pompeii Better for Families?

Pompeii 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, Pompeii is very family-friendly. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Thessaloniki or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii 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 Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Thessaloniki or Pompeii Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Thessaloniki is very popular with students. 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.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Thessaloniki and Pompeii.

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 Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Thessaloniki or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thessaloniki or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Thessaloniki than Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

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

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

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 Pompeii, many people enjoy the museums that this iconic archeological site offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this archeological site.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii 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 museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

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 museums around the famous destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Thessaloniki or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii in the Summer?

Both Pompeii 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 Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Pompeii averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Pompeii. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pompeii. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pompeii in the Autumn?

Both Pompeii 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.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Pompeii. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Pompeii fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Pompeii. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Pompeii. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pompeii in the Winter?

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

Thessaloniki is much colder than Pompeii in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Pompeii fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Pompeii during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Pompeii receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Pompeii. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Pompeii in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Pompeii. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Pompeii averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pompeii. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pompeii receives 189 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Pompeii. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Pompeii receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pompeii and Thessaloniki