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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reykjavik? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Thessaloniki and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Thessaloniki is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Thessaloniki different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Thessaloniki can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Thessaloniki. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Thessaloniki or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Thessaloniki or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

People visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Reykjavik offers some nice shopping areas. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Thessaloniki or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik 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, Reykjavik is very family-friendly. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

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 Reykjavik Better for Couples?

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

Reykjavik makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

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 Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Thessaloniki is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Thessaloniki or Reykjavik Better for Students?

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

Thessaloniki is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Reykjavik is popular with students. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Thessaloniki and Reykjavik.

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 Reykjavik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Thessaloniki or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is a very walkable city. The city is small and compact, so it's easy 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 Reykjavik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

In either Thessaloniki or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Thessaloniki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Thessaloniki. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this clean 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 Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling city of Thessaloniki. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this green destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Reykjavik 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 Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik is more expensive. And not only is Thessaloniki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Thessaloniki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Thessaloniki 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 Reykjavik would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Reykjavik than you might in Thessaloniki.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Reykjavik?

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

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 Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during autumn. Thessaloniki is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Reykjavik. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Reykjavik. The spring months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the spring. In April, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Thessaloniki