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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Villach?

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

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

Villach

Villach is a historic, nature-filled, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Thessaloniki and Villach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Villach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki than Villach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Villach is known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Villach 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. Villach is popular for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Thessaloniki different from Villach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thessaloniki is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

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

Thessaloniki is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its restaurants.

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.

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Thessaloniki has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Villach. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for the beach. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach Better for its Old Town?

Villach 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 Villach. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach Better for Hiking?

Villach 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 Villach. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Villach?

Thessaloniki is notable for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

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.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach Better for Families?

Villach 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, Villach is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

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 Villach Better for Couples?

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

Villach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

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 Villach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Villach are both high quality 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.

Villach is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is notable for students. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not popular with students.

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

Thessaloniki is a popular place for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Thessaloniki has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Is Thessaloniki or Villach a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

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

Villach is generally not a very walkable city. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Villach or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Villach?

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

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

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

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

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 Villach, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this outdoorsy town 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 town.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Villach?

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.

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

Five days in Thessaloniki or Villach?

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 museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Villach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Villach?

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.

Villach 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Villach?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Villach. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Villach, 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 Villach?

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 Villach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Villach. The summer months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Villach this time of year.

In the summer, Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Villach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thessaloniki in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Villach averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Villach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Villach. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 288 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Villach. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Villach in the Autumn?

Both Villach and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Villach for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thessaloniki is generally around the same temperature as Villach. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 16°C (61°F), and Villach fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Villach during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Villach. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Villach in the Winter?

Both Villach and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Villach in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Villach in the winter. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Villach fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Villach. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 96 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Villach. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Villach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Villach. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

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

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Villach during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Villach. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Villach and Thessaloniki