A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Thiva (Thebes) vs. Kalampaka (Meteora) for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 authentic, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Thiva (Thebes) than Kalampaka (Meteora), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Thiva (Thebes) is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is famous for The Archeological Museum.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) are among the most recognizable in the world. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora) offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Thiva (Thebes). 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Thiva (Thebes) is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Thiva (Thebes) is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Thiva (Thebes). You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora) are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Kalampaka (Meteora) offers lots of family activities. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Thiva (Thebes) is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Thiva (Thebes) has some public transit options. There are local buses in the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora) a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kalampaka (Meteora)

Thiva (Thebes) is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

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

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

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora). With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kalampaka (Meteora) than in Thiva (Thebes). Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-3 days is enough time in Kalampaka (Meteora).

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

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


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

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

In Thiva (Thebes), many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kalampaka (Meteora), you'll find museums and food. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Many people visit Thiva (Thebes) for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Thiva (Thebes), a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

The destination of Thiva (Thebes) offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kalampaka (Meteora). It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thiva (Thebes). This city offers something for everyone. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Adventure Tours to Greece, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)? 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $42
  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $272

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

Prices for flights to both Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Varlaam Monastery Greece Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $17
  • Meteora Full Day Tour from Kalabaka with Audio in 6 languages: $27
  • Meteora: Hermit Caves Sunset Hiking Experience: $38
  • Sunset Meteora Tour on E-Bike: $40
  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $42
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $43
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $43
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $43
  • Midday Meteora Monastery tour from Kalabaka's train station : $43
  • Morning Monastery E-bike Tour: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora), 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Kalampaka (Meteora). The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the family-friendly experiences.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Kalampaka (Meteora) in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora). Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 330 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in July than Kalampaka (Meteora). Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F)

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

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora). Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora) during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kalampaka (Meteora). Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F)

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

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thiva (Thebes) during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally much warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora). Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora). Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 112 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets more rain in January than Kalampaka (Meteora). Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Kalampaka (Meteora). Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the natural beauty.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora) in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora) during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Kalampaka (Meteora). Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Kalampaka (Meteora)
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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