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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or The Hague?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or The Hague? 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.

The Hague

The Hague is a international, bustling, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Thessaloniki and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or The Hague?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than The Hague. While The Hague is larger than Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Thessaloniki is very popular for its museums and beaches, while The Hague attracts visitors for its music and big city activities. Thessaloniki is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Thessaloniki different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki
The Hague

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

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Thessaloniki
The Hague

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and The Hague both to be great 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 The Hague is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

Both Thessaloniki and The Hague 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 The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Music?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

The Hague is an excellent place to visit for its live music scene. However, Thessaloniki is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, The Hague has diverse options. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Thessaloniki is not a live music destination.


Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

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

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or The Hague?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Thessaloniki and The Hague.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or The Hague.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and The Hague make for a nice 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.

The Hague is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Thessaloniki or The Hague Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

The Hague is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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.


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

Thessaloniki
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague can get you around easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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 The Hague a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
The Hague

Thessaloniki and The Hague are nice when it comes to walkability.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable place. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable city. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

For even more information, also check out Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting? and Is The Hague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thessaloniki and The Hague. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Thessaloniki than in The Hague. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 1-3 days is enough time in The Hague.

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

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


  • How many days in Thessaloniki or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Thessaloniki or The Hague?

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.

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling 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.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the global big city of The Hague. 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 The Hague?

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.

The Hague 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Thessaloniki?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thessaloniki is €134, while the average daily cost in The Hague is €178. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thessaloniki and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    The Hague 104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    The Hague 208
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or The Hague? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thessaloniki


Hotels in The Hague


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Thessaloniki Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    The Hague 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

Also for Thessaloniki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Thessaloniki to Ikos Oceania: $153
  • Bus Transfer to/from Kavala: $18
  • Thessaloniki to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) - Departure Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki Cruise Port: Transfer to Thessaloniki city: $142
  • Thessaloniki Airport to TUI Blue Lagoon Hotels Private Transfer: $93
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Hotels Private Transfer: $98
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Portes Lithos Luxury Resort Private Transfer: $82
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Ikos Olivia Hotel Private Transfer: $98
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Ikos Oceania Hotel Private Transfer: $87
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Alia Palace Hotel Private Transfer: $131
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Afitis Boutique Hotel Private Transfer: $109
  • Thessaloniki Airport or Cruise Port Private Departure Transfer: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Thessaloniki change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thessaloniki 42
    The Hague 55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Open Market Food Tour with Tasting: $48
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $49
  • Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family: $63
  • Guided Food Tour: $70
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $71
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $87
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $95
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $95
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $95
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $97
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch: $97

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    The Hague 34

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 4-Hour Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage Private Guided Tour: $207
  • Archery Odyssey Traditional Archery Experience: $65
  • Best of Private Guided Tour: $218
  • Best of Private Guided Tour: $192
  • Charming pearls of Thessaloniki – Romantic Tour: $153
  • City Sightseeing Thessaloniki Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • Daily Cruise:Discover Thessaloniki in a different way: $1,069
  • Daily Sailing Cruise Olympus Riviera Highlights: $122
  • Day Tour at Royal Tombs of Aigai and Museum of Pella with pickup: $93
  • Dion and Palaios Panteleimon Myth and History Tour: $153
  • Dion-Olympus Private Tour from Thessaloniki: $96
  • Discover Olympus from Paralia in Jeep Safari Shared Tour: $76

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    The Hague 30

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

Also in Thessaloniki, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Friday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki: $25
  • From Pella-Edessa wine tasting: $64
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $81
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $91
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $93
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $207

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and The Hague, we can see that The Hague 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 The Hague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hague 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 The Hague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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 The Hague in the Summer?

Both The Hague 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 The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in The Hague. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than The Hague. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague 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. Also, many visitors come to The Hague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Thessaloniki is much warmer than The Hague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than The Hague. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or The Hague in the Winter?

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

The Hague can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and The Hague averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than The Hague. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or The Hague in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as The Hague. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to The Hague because of the activities around the city.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than The Hague. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)