A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Thessaloniki for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Thessaloniki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a environmentally conscious, waterfront, and active city. Helsinki is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Helsinki travel costs.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a high energy, bustling, 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. See Thessaloniki travel costs.

Helsinki and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Thessaloniki than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Thessaloniki is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Helsinki is more popular for its impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Also, Thessaloniki is famous for The Monument of Rotonda. Helsinki is well known for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Thessaloniki and Helsinki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Thessaloniki.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thessaloniki. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Thessaloniki? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Helsinki and Thessaloniki both to be excellent destinations.

Helsinki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Dining out in Thessaloniki is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Thessaloniki has a large number of nightlife venues. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Helsinki is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Helsinki and Thessaloniki.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Thessaloniki. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki More Beautiful?

Helsinki is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Thessaloniki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Helsinki is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city's location on the tip of a peninsula means that the water has a huge influence over daily life. There are more than 300 islands in the area and plenty of nature and parkland. The city is filled with striking color and tons of beauty.

Thessaloniki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Thessaloniki are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Many students visit Thessaloniki. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Helsinki can get you around easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Helsinki or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Helsinki and Thessaloniki are notable when it comes to walkability.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable place. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Helsinki or Thessaloniki. In our opinion, Helsinki has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Helsinki than Thessaloniki. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Helsinki than Thessaloniki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Helsinki that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Thessaloniki than Helsinki 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 Thessaloniki.

One day in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this coastal city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Thessaloniki offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

Helsinki is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the nature-focused destination of Helsinki. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Thessaloniki 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.

A week in Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

Helsinki is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Thessaloniki 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Finland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, and The Best Contiki Tours to Greece.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Thessaloniki, we can see that Thessaloniki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Thessaloniki Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Thessaloniki, 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 Helsinki or Thessaloniki?

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 Helsinki or Thessaloniki in the Summer?

Both Thessaloniki and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Helsinki is much colder than Thessaloniki in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Helsinki. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Thessaloniki during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 327 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Thessaloniki in the Autumn?

Both Thessaloniki and Helsinki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Helsinki is much colder than Thessaloniki. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Thessaloniki averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Thessaloniki. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 159 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Thessaloniki. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Thessaloniki in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Thessaloniki. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Helsinki can be very cold during winter. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Thessaloniki. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Thessaloniki during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Thessaloniki receives 101 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Thessaloniki. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Thessaloniki in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Thessaloniki. The spring months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. Helsinki is much colder than Thessaloniki in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°F) in April, and Thessaloniki fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Helsinki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Thessaloniki. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Thessaloniki receives 196 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in April than Thessaloniki. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Thessaloniki receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Thessaloniki and Helsinki