A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Antalya for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya are both popular with visitors, Antalya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Antalya is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thiva (Thebes) is known for its big city activities. Antalya is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Antalya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antalya and Thiva (Thebes). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Antalya. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Antalya know how to have a good time. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Music?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its live music scene. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a live music destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is very popular for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is very popular for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Antalya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antalya is a great vacation spot to visit for backpackers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Antalya is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Antalya can get you around easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Antalya

Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya both are good when exploring on foot.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable place. Some areas are more walkable than others.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable city. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Antalya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antalya or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

In either Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Antalya than Thiva (Thebes) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-5 days is enough time in Antalya.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Antalya.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Antalya 2-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

In Thiva (Thebes), you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Antalya, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

In Thiva (Thebes), 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 Thiva (Thebes) has to offer.

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thiva (Thebes). One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the vacation spot of Antalya. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey.


Which place is cheaper, Antalya or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Antalya is €138. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Antalya 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Antalya 102
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya? 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 Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Antalya


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: Antalya Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Antalya 103

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antalya

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

  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - Economy: $88
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - TOP VIP Minibus: $131
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minibus: $117
  • Antalya Airport (AYT) to Turkler Transfer - VIP Minivan: $102
  • Private Transfer From Antalya Airport To Titreyengöl / Sorgun: $91
  • AYT - Konyaaltı | Private Transfer Between Antalya Airport: $37
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Ceyhan Hotels: $81
  • Adana Airport Transfers to Yumurtalik Hotels: $98
  • Alanya/Mahmutlar: Private Transfer to/from Antalya Airport: $42
  • Alanya: Private Airport Transfer: $88
  • Ankara Esenboga Airport transfers to Golbasi Hotels: $92
  • Ankara Esenboga Airport transfers to Sincan, Eryaman Hotels: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

Prices for flights to both Antalya and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Antalya 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antalya

For Antalya, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pamukkalea and Salda Lake Tour with Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner: $40
  • Traditional Turkish Tastes at Antalya Food Tour: $47
  • Giza Pyramids Sound and Light Show with Dinner: $72
  • Full day trip to Pamukkale from Side with dinner: $103
  • Pamukkale tour w. Entrance, Lunch, Dinner & Transfer from Antalya: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Antalya 43

Tours and Activities in Antalya

For Antalya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.19
  • Antalya Highlights Escape Game and Tour: $3.19
  • Bazaar Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $6.00
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.66
  • Antalya Scavenger Hunt And Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.85
  • Antalya Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-Guided Audio City Tour on Your Phone: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Antalya Sand Sculpture Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Full-Day Private Rafting Adventure in Karabük Türkiye: $11
  • White Water Rafting Tour from Antalya: $11
  • Sulu Island and Adrasan Bay: Boat Tour with Lunch: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Antalya 19


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya, we can see that Antalya 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Antalya Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya, 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Antalya. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Antalya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Antalya averages at about 28°C (83°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 376 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets more rain in July than Antalya. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Antalya 28°C (83°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya in the Autumn?

Both Antalya and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Antalya. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 19°C (67°F), and Antalya fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Antalya. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less sunshine than Antalya during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 251 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Antalya. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Antalya 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya in the Winter?

Both Antalya and Thiva (Thebes) during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Antalya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Antalya in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Antalya fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets less sunshine than Antalya. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antalya receives 161 hours of full sun.

Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Antalya. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Antalya 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Antalya in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Antalya. The spring months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year.

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Antalya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Antalya averages at about 16°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antalya during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Antalya receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Antalya. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Antalya receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Antalya 16°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Antalya and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Antalya
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 239 mm (9.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (62°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 28°C (83°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 28°C (83°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 227 mm (8.9 in)