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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Porto?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Porto? 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 historic, vibrant, and high energy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Porto

Porto is a cultural, cosmopolitan, and dynamic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Porto?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Porto than Thessaloniki. While Thessaloniki is larger than Porto, Porto has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Porto is very popular for its food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Thessaloniki attracts visitors for its beaches and shopping. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Thessaloniki different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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

Porto is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Thessaloniki or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Porto 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 Porto know how to have a good time. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Thessaloniki or Porto Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is adequate for its beaches. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto 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 Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Porto?

Thessaloniki is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Thessaloniki or Porto Better for Families?

Porto 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, Porto is very family-friendly. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto Better for Couples?

Porto is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Porto makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Thessaloniki or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Porto is extremely popular for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Porto Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Porto 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.

Porto is very popular with students. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

Porto 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 Porto can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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 Porto a more walkable city?

Porto 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.

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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 Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Porto?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Thessaloniki 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 Porto.

One day in Thessaloniki or Porto?

In Thessaloniki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this bustling destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Porto 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. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Porto?

Thessaloniki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Porto?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Porto 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Porto?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Porto, 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 Porto?

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 Porto in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Porto. 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 Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In Thessaloniki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Porto during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Porto. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Porto. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Porto. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Porto. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Porto in the Winter?

Both Porto and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Thessaloniki is much colder than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Porto during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Porto. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Thessaloniki during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Porto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Porto. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Porto. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Porto. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Porto and Thessaloniki