A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Mykonos vs. Thessaloniki for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Thessaloniki. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a party-oriented, ritzy, and opulent Greek island. Mykonos is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Mykonos travel costs.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Thessaloniki travel costs.

Mykonos and Thessaloniki: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Thessaloniki. Mykonos is bigger than Thessaloniki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thessaloniki is more popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Thessaloniki and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections.

How is Mykonos different from Thessaloniki?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

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

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Mykonos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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 Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Mykonos just to party. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

The people in Thessaloniki know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Resorts?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Mykonos is a great choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Thessaloniki is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Thessaloniki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Thessaloniki is lacking in options for the beach.

Mykonos is considered a top beach destination. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

The beach in Thessaloniki is worth checking out. 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.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets. It's a scenic area that has long been popular for its beautiful setting.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Hiking?

Mykonos is not a good area for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Mykonos draws large crowds to its stores. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos or Thessaloniki More Beautiful?

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

Mykonos is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

Thessaloniki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Families?

Thessaloniki is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Couples?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Mykonos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Thessaloniki is a good Greek island 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 Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki Better for Students?

Thessaloniki is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Both Mykonos and Thessaloniki offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Mykonos or Thessaloniki a more walkable city?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Mykonos. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Thessaloniki or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Thessaloniki. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mykonos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Thessaloniki.

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

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

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

One day in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this glamourous Greek island offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

In Thessaloniki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Thessaloniki, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Thessaloniki has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this ritzy destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Thessaloniki is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thessaloniki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Thessaloniki, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Thessaloniki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Thessaloniki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Thessaloniki 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 Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos than you might in Thessaloniki.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mykonos Expensive? and Is Thessaloniki Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Thessaloniki?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.