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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Venice?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Venice? 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.

Venice

Venice is a romantic, cultural, and magical city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Thessaloniki and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Venice?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Venice than Thessaloniki. While Thessaloniki is larger than Venice, Venice has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thessaloniki is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Thessaloniki is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Thessaloniki different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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.

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

Thessaloniki is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Thessaloniki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Thessaloniki or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Thessaloniki or Venice Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is adequate for the beach. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Venice?

Venice is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Thessaloniki or Venice Better for Families?

Venice 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, Venice is very family-friendly. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice Better for Couples?

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

Venice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Venice are both great destinations 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.

Venice is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Thessaloniki or Venice Better for Students?

Venice 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 Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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 Venice Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Venice is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Venice?

Both Thessaloniki and Venice have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Thessaloniki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 2-7 days is enough time in Venice.

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

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

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

One day in Thessaloniki or Venice?

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 Venice, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Venice?

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.

Venice is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Venice?

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.

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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.

Venice is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Venice, we can see that Venice 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Venice?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Venice. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. In Thessaloniki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Venice during summer. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Venice. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Venice. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Venice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Venice. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in October than Venice. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Venice in the Winter?

Both Venice and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Venice can be very cold during winter. Thessaloniki is much warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Venice during winter. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Venice. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Thessaloniki during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Venice because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Venice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thessaloniki in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Venice averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Venice. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in April than Venice. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Thessaloniki