A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. San Remo for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Thessaloniki or San Remo?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Remo? 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.

San Remo

San Remo is a relaxing, beautiful, and scenic coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Thessaloniki and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or San Remo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than San Remo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while San Remo is known for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Thessaloniki different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and San Remo 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 San Remo is an experience not to be missed. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Thessaloniki or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Thessaloniki or San Remo Better for Beaches?

San Remo is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

San Remo 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 San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or San Remo?

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

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Thessaloniki or San Remo Better for Families?

San Remo 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, San Remo is very family-friendly. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo Better for Couples?

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

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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 San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is Thessaloniki or San Remo Better for Students?

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

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Thessaloniki and San Remo.

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 San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Thessaloniki or San Remo a more walkable city?

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very walkable coastal city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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 San Remo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or San Remo?

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

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

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

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

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 San Remo, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic coastal city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 coastal city.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or San Remo?

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.

San Remo is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 San Remo?

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 nightlife and food around the scenic destination of San Remo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 San Remo?

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.

San Remo 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or San Remo?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

Both San Remo and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as San Remo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and San Remo averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in San Remo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Remo in the Autumn?

Both San Remo and Thessaloniki during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than San Remo. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun.

San Remo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than San Remo. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Remo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and San Remo. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Remo in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Thessaloniki is much colder than San Remo in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than San Remo during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than San Remo. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or San Remo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as San Remo. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Remo. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than San Remo. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Thessaloniki