A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Thiva (Thebes) vs. Athens for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Athens?

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 Athens 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Athens: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Athens are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Athens?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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


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

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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 Athens Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Athens is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a world-famous historical area. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

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


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

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Shopping is a popular activity in both Athens and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Athens Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens 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.

Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Athens makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

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 Athens Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is very popular for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

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 Athens Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is a great destination for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens 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 Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Athens

Athens is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

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

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

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Athens?

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Athens have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Thiva (Thebes). Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 3-7 days is enough time in Athens.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens 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 Athens.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Athens? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Athens 3-7

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Athens?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Athens?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Athens is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Athens?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Athens?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Athens 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 Athens is €127. 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 Athens in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Athens 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Athens 126
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Athens

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


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: Athens Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Athens 27

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • Athens Airport To Piraeus Port / Hotel Private Luxury Transfer : $42
  • Athens to Piraeus (Athens) Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Private Athens International Airport to Piraeus Port Transfer: $81
  • Private Transfer from /to Athens International Airport: $32
  • Transfer from Athens-Pireaus-Athens Airport to Corinth-Loutraki-Agioi Theodoroi: $222
  • "Luxurious Transfer": $48
  • A mini Embark / Disembark Tour In Athens With Transfers from airport / port.: $295
  • AIRPORT TRANSFER in Athens : $29
  • Accessible Private Transfer WAV from Athens Airport to Port Rafina: $43
  • Airport Private Transfers: $88
  • Airport Transfer: $111
  • Airport Transfer/ Athens Greece: $29

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

Prices for flights to both Athens 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
    Athens 37

Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $25
  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $47
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $52
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $53
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $53
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $53
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $58
  • Greek Spirits & Meze, Food Tour in Athens: $63
  • Cooking Class on Vegan Moroccan Cuisine with Meal: $64
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Athens 36

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • Self-guided First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.27
  • Hadrian's Library Skip-the-Line Ticket: $4.43
  • Acropolis Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.43
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour into Byzantine Gems: $4.68
  • Acropolis Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.68
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Old Plaka: $4.68
  • Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $5.45
  • A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • 360 Virtual tour of Ancient Athens: $6.00
  • Roman Agora of Athens Skip-the-Line Ticket: $6.10
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus Skip-the-Line Ticket: $6.10
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Athens 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Polykala Distillery showroom. A125 years of history along with liqueur tasting.: $16
  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $18
  • The Original Athens Pub Crawl - Athens Drunk Tour: $21
  • The NightCrawlers | Athens Pub Crawl: $22
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $36
  • Athens Speakeasy & Alternative Bar Crawl: Discover Hidden Gems: $39
  • Athens Old Town: Wine Tasting based on Ancient Greek Grapes: $40
  • Noble Greeks Acropolis Wine Tasting with Private Sommelier: $43
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $44
  • Organic and Vegan Indigenous Wine Tasting Private Experience: $44
  • 1 Hour Private Four Greek Wine Tasting and Food Pairing in Athens: $44


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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Athens?

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

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 Athens in the Summer?

Both Athens and Thiva (Thebes) during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Athens. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Athens receives 357 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Athens. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Athens receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Athens 27°C (81°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Athens. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens 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 Athens during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Athens receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Athens. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Athens receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Athens 19°C (67°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Athens. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Athens. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Athens receives 143 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Athens. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Athens receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

Both Athens and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Athens. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Athens during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Athens receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Athens. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Athens receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Athens and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Athens
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)