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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Urbino?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Urbino? 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Urbino

Urbino is a authentic, laid back, and historic town. 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 Urbino: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Urbino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Urbino are both popular with visitors, Thessaloniki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Urbino is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Urbino 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. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Thessaloniki different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is great for its historical sights. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thessaloniki. 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.

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.


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

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Urbino both to be excellent 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 Urbino is an experience not to be missed. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Thessaloniki or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Many people head to Thessaloniki for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Thessaloniki or Urbino Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is adequate for the beach. However, Urbino is not a beach destination.

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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.


Is Thessaloniki or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Urbino is a popular place for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Urbino. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Urbino?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is great for its shopping areas. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Urbino is a great destination for shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Is Thessaloniki or Urbino Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Thessaloniki offers lots of family activities. 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.


Is Thessaloniki or Urbino Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

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

Urbino makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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 Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Thessaloniki or Urbino Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Both Thessaloniki and Urbino are excellent 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.

Urbino is very popular with students. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.


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

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Thessaloniki offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Thessaloniki or Urbino a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Urbino

Thessaloniki and Urbino are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Urbino is a somewhat walkable city. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Urbino?

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

Families should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Urbino. 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 Urbino 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 Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Thessaloniki or Urbino?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Urbino, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic town offers. 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 Urbino?

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Urbino 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 Urbino?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Urbino. 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 Urbino?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Urbino 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino 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 Urbino is €118. 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 Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Urbino? 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 Urbino


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 Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • From Private Day Trip to Meteora with Transfer: $428
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $254
  • Private Transfer from Kavala to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $237
  • Transfer from Thessaloniki to Ikos Oceania: $153
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki city: $142
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki Port: $142
  • Thessaloniki Cruise Port: Transfer to Thessaloniki city: $142
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Alia Palace Hotel Private Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport from Thessaloniki City: $120
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Afitis Boutique Hotel Private Transfer: $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Ammon Zeus Hotel : $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Resort: $109

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino 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
    Urbino 39

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Urbino 15

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 Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Urbino 14

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


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


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Urbino?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Urbino, 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 Urbino?

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 Urbino in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Urbino. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Urbino for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Urbino in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Urbino. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Urbino because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Urbino. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Urbino. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thessaloniki 16°C (61°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Urbino in the Winter?

Both Urbino and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Urbino this time of year.

It's quite cold in Urbino in the winter. Thessaloniki is much warmer than Urbino in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Urbino. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thessaloniki 5°C (41°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Urbino in the Spring?

Both Urbino and Thessaloniki during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Urbino for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Urbino. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Urbino averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Urbino. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)