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

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina?

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 Taormina 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.

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Thiva (Thebes) and Taormina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Taormina are both popular with visitors, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Taormina is known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taormina is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also home to The Archeological Museum.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Taormina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Thiva (Thebes) is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.


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

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Taormina 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 Taormina. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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 Taormina Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Taormina 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 Taormina know how to have a good time. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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 Taormina Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Taormina is a great destination for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

In Taormina, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Taormina is a town with good options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Taormina. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Shopping is a popular activity in both Taormina 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.

Taormina has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Thiva (Thebes) is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

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

Couples visit Taormina frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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 Taormina Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

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

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 Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

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

Thiva (Thebes)
Taormina

Taormina 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.

Taormina is a very walkable town. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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 Taormina Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina?

It's fun to spend time in either Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Taormina due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-4 days is enough time in Taormina.

Families should spend more time in Thiva (Thebes) than Taormina. 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 Taormina than Thiva (Thebes). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Taormina 2-4

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina?

The city of Thiva (Thebes) offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Taormina might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina?

Thiva (Thebes) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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.

Taormina 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 Taormina?

Thiva (Thebes) is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Taormina?

Thiva (Thebes) is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Taormina is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Taormina 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 Taormina is €108. 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 Taormina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Taormina 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Taormina 140
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Taormina

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


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: Taormina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Taormina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41

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

Prices for flights to both Taormina 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
    Taormina 33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Taormina 11

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Tour di Taormina, Savoca e Forza D' Agro': $139
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • Tour da Messina a Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella: $695
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Taormina 8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thiva (Thebes) and Taormina, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) is more expensive. And not only is Taormina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Taormina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Taormina and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Thiva (Thebes) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thiva (Thebes) than you might in Taormina.

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 Taormina Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Taormina?

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

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 Taormina in the Summer?

Both Taormina and Thiva (Thebes) during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Taormina this time of year.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Taormina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Taormina averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In Taormina, 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 Taormina. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 332 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Taormina 27°C (80°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Taormina. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Taormina for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Taormina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Taormina. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 128 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

The winter brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Taormina. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Taormina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Thiva (Thebes) is cooler than Taormina in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Taormina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Taormina. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Taormina receives 115 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Taormina. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Taormina 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Taormina and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Taormina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Taormina during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Taormina receives 207 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Taormina. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Taormina receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Taormina and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Taormina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)


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