A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia? 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 bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Thessaloniki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is known for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also home to The Monument of Rotonda. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Thessaloniki different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Thessaloniki know how to have a good time. 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 nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia is a popular place for the beache. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Ventimiglia is a good option for a beach vacation. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

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 Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia.

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 Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Is Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia.

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 Ventimiglia. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

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

Ventimiglia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a great destination for students. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia.

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 Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable seaside town. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia?

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

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling city of Thessaloniki. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 seaside town.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

The bustling city of Thessaloniki offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

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

In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets more rain in July than Ventimiglia. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Ventimiglia. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Thessaloniki usually receives less sunshine than Ventimiglia during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ventimiglia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Ventimiglia. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets less sunshine than Ventimiglia. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Ventimiglia. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

Both Ventimiglia and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

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

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Thessaloniki