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

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Siena?

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 Siena 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 historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Siena: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Siena are popular destinations, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thiva (Thebes) is very popular for its big city activities, while Siena attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Siena is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also well known for The Archeological Museum.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Siena.

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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.


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

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Siena 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 Siena. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

It's hard to distinguish whether Thiva (Thebes) or Siena has a better nightlife scene.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

If you're looking for night time activities Siena has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

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

Siena has a world-famous historical area. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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


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

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Shopping is a popular activity in both Siena 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.

Siena has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Siena Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Thiva (Thebes) is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Thiva (Thebes) is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Siena Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Siena is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Siena is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Siena is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

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 Siena Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

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

Students come from all over to stay in Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Siena.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Siena offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.


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

Thiva (Thebes)
Siena

Siena 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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 Siena Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Siena?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Siena to fill your time. In our opinion, Siena has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Siena than Thiva (Thebes). However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Siena?

In Thiva (Thebes), many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Siena, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Siena?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Siena is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Siena?

Thiva (Thebes) is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Siena. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Thiva (Thebes). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Siena. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Siena 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 Siena is €133. 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 Siena in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Siena 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Siena 138
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Siena

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


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: Siena Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Siena 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Siena

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Siena:

  • Arrival transfer Siena Airport SAY to Siena City by van or car: $148
  • From Florence: Private Siena Day Trip with Transfers: $348
  • Luxury Private Transfer Between Siena and Genoa: $1,118
  • Private transfer from Siena to Florence: $202
  • Rome Fiumicino Airport: Shared Transfer to/from Siena by Bus: $11
  • Siena - Rome Transfer Tour with Orvieto & Montepulciano: $1,059
  • Siena to Milan Linate Airport 1-Way Private Transfer: $1,305
  • Siena to Milan Malpensa airport private transfer: $1,433
  • Transfer Siena-Florence with visit to Chianti and wine tasting: $218
  • Transfer Siena-Pisa with stop in San Gimignano & Lunch: $245

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

Prices for flights to both Siena 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
    Siena 51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Siena

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Siena.

  • Siena food tour and Chianti wine: $60
  • Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $95
  • Tuscan Dinner in a Villa in an Ancient Siena Olive Grove: $98
  • Siena Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $99
  • From Siena/Chianti: Dinner & Drinks in the Chianti Vineyards: $102
  • Siena countryside: cooking class in a real Tuscan farmhouse: $123
  • Cooking Class in a historical villa in Siena Provence: $130
  • Tuscan Cooking Class in Central Siena: $131
  • 4 Hour Private Cooking Class Unique Tuscan Experience in Siena: $131
  • Family Cooking Class: Pizza and Tiramisù from Siena: $138
  • Small Group Cooking Class in Chianti Farmhouse: $138
  • Small group Cooking Class in Chianti Farmhouse: $141

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Siena 3.75

Tours and Activities in Siena

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Siena are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Palazzo Pubblico Entry Ticket: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Siena Cathedral and Piccolomini Library Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Siena Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Italian Opera in Siena Experience: $27
  • Escape Tour - Self-Guided Citygame: $32
  • Guided tour of Siena INCLUDING the Cathedral or Museum: $33
  • Chianti: Wine and Olive Oil Tasting with Cellar Tour: $36
  • Wine Experience in an Organic Chianti Winery: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Siena 2.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Siena

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Siena:

  • Wine Tasting at the Winery in the Panoramic Terrance: $27
  • Montalcino: Brunello Wine Tasting Experience: $35
  • Total Immersion Wine Tour in Chianti: $43
  • Lapi&Tour Guided tour of the cellars with wine tasting: $52
  • From Florence: San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti Wine Tour: $55
  • Tuscany Hiking Tour from Siena Including Wine Tasting: $60
  • Siena Underground Wine tasting in a Medieval Cave: $61
  • Siena Underground Wine tasting in a Medieval Cave: $63
  • Tuscan Classics Wine Tasting Class with Aperitivo: $64
  • Montalcino: Brunello Wine Tasting & Lunch in a Tuscan Castle: $64
  • Wine and Food Pairing Class with Tuscan Wine Tastings: $75
  • Organic Winery Tour and Wine Tasting in Siena: $80


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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Siena?

Siena has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Siena, 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 Siena?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Siena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Siena. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Siena. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Siena this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Siena during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Siena. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Siena 23°C (73°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Siena. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Siena because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Siena. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Siena 16°C (61°F)

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

Both Siena and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Siena during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Siena. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Siena 7°C (45°F)

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

Both Siena and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Siena for the natural beauty.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Siena. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Siena. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Siena 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Siena and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Siena
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)