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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Varenna?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Varenna? 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thessaloniki is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Thessaloniki different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

Varenna is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna Better for Beaches?

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

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Varenna?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Varenna.

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 Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna Better for Couples?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Thessaloniki or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best 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 Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Varenna?

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

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

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

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.

In Varenna, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic village 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 village.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Varenna?

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.

Varenna 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 food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Varenna?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Varenna?

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.

Varenna 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 Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Varenna?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 420 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Varenna, 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna 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 Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Varenna. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna 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. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Varenna in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Varenna. In January, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Varenna. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Varenna during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Varenna. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Thessaloniki