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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Ravenna?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ravenna? 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a off-the-beaten-path, charming, and authentic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Ravenna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Thessaloniki than Ravenna. Thessaloniki is bigger than Ravenna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is better known for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Ravenna is more popular for its small town charm. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Ravenna and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda. Ravenna is well known for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

How is Thessaloniki different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Ravenna specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Ravenna both to be superb 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 Ravenna is an experience not to be missed. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is Thessaloniki or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Thessaloniki has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

Is Thessaloniki or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Ravenna?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Ravenna to go shopping. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Thessaloniki or Ravenna Better for Families?

Ravenna 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, Ravenna is very family-friendly. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

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 Ravenna Better for Couples?

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

Ravenna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

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 Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

Is Thessaloniki or Ravenna Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Ravenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Ravenna is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Ravenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

Is Thessaloniki or Ravenna a more walkable city?

Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is a very walkable town. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored 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 Ravenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Ravenna?

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

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

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

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

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.

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Ravenna?

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.

Ravenna 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Ravenna?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ravenna. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Ravenna, 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 Ravenna?

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 Ravenna in the Summer?

Both Ravenna and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Ravenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Ravenna. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ravenna in the Autumn?

Both Ravenna and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Ravenna averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Ravenna. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ravenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Ravenna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ravenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ravenna. In January, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Ravenna. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ravenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Ravenna. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Ravenna in the spring for the small town charm.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Ravenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Ravenna. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Thessaloniki