PlovdivvsThessaloniki
Can't decide between Plovdiv and Thessaloniki? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Plovdiv
Plovdiv is one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, built on seven hills with a layered history spanning 8,000 years. The beautifully restored Old Town, a Roman amphitheatre still hosting performances, and a vibrant arts scene earned it 2019 European Capital of Culture.
Known for
Thessaloniki
Greece's vibrant second city pulses with Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, and legendary nightlife. Thessaloniki's waterfront promenade, markets, and food scene rival any European capital.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Plovdiv offers Ancient Roman Theatre, Old Town (Stari Grad), Kapana Creative District
Thessaloniki offers White Tower, Rotunda, Ano Poli
Food & Dining
Plovdiv is famous for its local dining scene
Thessaloniki is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Plovdiv offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Thessaloniki has legendary nightlife
Best Time to Visit
May to October
April to June, September to November
Weather
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 3°C
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 8°C
Top Attractions in Plovdiv
- 1Ancient Roman Theatre
- 2Old Town (Stari Grad)
- 3Kapana Creative District
- 4Regional Ethnographic Museum
- 5Alyosha Monument
- 6Bachkovo Monastery (day trip)
Top Attractions in Thessaloniki
- 1White Tower
- 2Rotunda
- 3Ano Poli
- 4Aristotelous Square
- 5Byzantine Churches
- 6Modiano Market
Plovdiv is Popular With
Thessaloniki is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Plovdiv
- 1
The Small Basilica Archaeological Site
An incredibly well-preserved 5th-century early Christian basilica located in the heart of the city, now housed within a modern protective building.
- 2
Lavina Bookstore & Cafe
A sprawling, multi-level bookstore in an old factory building in the Kapana district, with a cozy cafe tucked inside.
Hidden Gems in Thessaloniki
- 1
Yedi Kule (Heptapyrgion)
The imposing Byzantine and Ottoman fortress at the highest point of Ano Poli, often overshadowed by the city walls.
- 2
Bey Hamam
The 'Baths of Paradise', a beautifully restored 15th-century Ottoman bathhouse hidden just off Venizelou Street.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Plovdiv
Stari Grad (Old Town)
The historic heart of Plovdiv, perched on three of the city's hills.
Kapana (The Trap) Creative District
A once-neglected artisan quarter transformed into Plovdiv's vibrant creative and nightlife epicenter.
Top Areas in Thessaloniki
Ladadika
The historic port district, named after the olive oil (ladi) warehouses that once occupied its stone buildings.
Ano Poli (Upper Town)
The oldest part of the city, a charming village-like neighborhood perched on the hills above the modern metropolis.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Plovdiv
Budget in Thessaloniki
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Plovdiv
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Thessaloniki
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Plovdiv
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Find cheap transport to Thessaloniki
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Our Verdict
Both Plovdiv and Thessaloniki are incredible destinations. Plovdiv excels in Roman amphitheatre and oldest city in Europe, while Thessaloniki stands out for Byzantine heritage and food scene.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Thessaloniki
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