A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Paros vs. Rhodes for Attractions, Food, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Paros or Rhodes?

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 Paros and Rhodes. 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.

Paros

Paros is a breathtaking, striking, and historical island. The famous beauty of Paros is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Paros travel costs.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a beautiful, diverse, and active island. Rhodes is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rhodes travel costs.

Paros and Rhodes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Paros or Rhodes?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Paros, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rhodes is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Paros is more popular for its nightlife. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Rhodes is well known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town.

How is Paros different from Rhodes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paros or Rhodes?

Paros
Rhodes

Rhodes is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rhodes are world-renowned. Many of the villages feel like outdoor museums, with churches and archaeological sites throughout. Some of the most well known sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Hospital of the Knights, Süleyman Mosque, and Roloi Clock Tower.

Paros offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.


Is the Food Better in Paros or Rhodes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paros
Rhodes

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paros and Rhodes.

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

For foodies, Rhodes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The island offers Greek classics with a local flair. Common ingredients include wheat, olives, legumes, wine, and cheese. Many dishes are flavored with cumin, which is more heavily used here than elsewhere in Greece. Popular local dishes include matsi (a pasta cooked in meat broth and prepared with cheese, butter, and legumes), tsouka (a veal and pasta casserole), and lakani (veal, goat, or lamb meat that is slow-cooked in tomato sauce).

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Rhodes

Paros is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Rhodes is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Paros is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

If you're looking for night time activities Rhodes has a few options to choose from. It's not the most party-oriented island, but you'll find plenty to do at night. Most of the clubs are found in Rhodes Town near Hippocrates Square, along Menekleous Street, or near Orfanidou Street. Faliraki has long been a popular nightlife area that brings in the British crowd, but it's not as lively as it once was. Some resorts offer more of a nightlife scene than others so if that's a priority, do your research before you book.

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Resorts?

Paros
Rhodes

Rhodes is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Rhodes for its luxury resorts. It is a large and diverse island with a variety of resorts and towns to choose from. There are quiet areas like those around Kallithea Beach, Kolymbia, and Kalathos, as well as more lively areas like Faliraki. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts around the island but there are also boutique hotels and apartments if that's more your style.

Paros is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.


Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Rhodes

You'll find excellent places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Paros and Rhodes.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Rhodes. The island has many snorkeling and dive spots where you can enjoy the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling or scuba diving trips that you can organize in advance as well. Because of the island's large size, there's a diversity of vendors and areas to pick between.

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Beaches?

Paros
Rhodes

Paros and Rhodes both offer terrific beaches.

Paros offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Rhodes. The island has spectacular beaches with crystal blue waters. Many of the beaches are sandy with swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The island is also known for its watersports and several beaches are great windsurfing or kite surfing locations. There are countless beaches to choose from but some of the favorites are Tsambika, Saint Paul's Bay, Ladiko, and Kallithea.

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Hiking?

Paros
Rhodes

Rhodes is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Rhodes is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The breathtaking landscapes, sweeping views, and beautiful waters make this an amazing hiking island. There are a wide range of trails to choose from with easy, moderate, and challenging options available. The many quaint villages and unique archaeological sites all make this a fantastic place to hike.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.


Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Rhodes?

Paros
Rhodes

Rhodes is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Rhodes draws large crowds to its stores. For a unique shopping experience head to Nea Agora (The New Market), which has a mix of shops and restaurants. You can also pick up fresh produce or pastries there. Sprinkled around the island you'll find many local artisan shops where you can buy ceramics, jewelry, soaps, leather goods, and more.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Paros. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

Is Paros or Rhodes More Beautiful?

Paros
Rhodes

Paros and Rhodes are somewhat similar when it comes to the terrific scenery.

Paros is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The beautiful beaches and striking landscapes make this a perfect destination for those looking for fun or romance.

The famous beauty of Rhodes is one of the main draws. The island offers impressive archaeological ruins, stunning vistas, breathtaking landscapes, and world class beaches.

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Families?

Paros
Rhodes

Both Paros and Rhodes are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

Rhodes is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's large size, varied activities, and wonderful outdoor setting makes this one of the most kid-friendly islands in Greece. There are many local villages that everyone will enjoy as well as beautiful walks and stunning beaches. Kids will appreciate the diversity of water activities that are available and the family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone can eat out comfortably.


Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Couples?

Paros
Rhodes

Paros and Rhodes both terrific destinations for a couple.

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

Rhodes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The larger size and diversity of activities make this island a great option for a honeymoon. The beaches are breathtaking, but there are also a number of water sports that couples will enjoy. The hiking, archaeological sites, and amazing restaurants will make for an unforgettable honeymoon.

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Rhodes

Paros and Rhodes are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Rhodes is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. The island has something for everyone, and because it's one of the larger islands, there are more hostels and budget restaurants to choose from. You'll find all kinds of travelers on the island and there really is something that everyone can enjoy.

Is Paros or Rhodes Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paros
Rhodes

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both Paros and Rhodes.

Public transit in Paros can get you to some places easily. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Rhodes. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.


Is Paros or Rhodes a more walkable city?

Paros
Rhodes

Paros is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Paros is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Paros Worth Visiting? and Is Rhodes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rhodes or Paros?

How long in Paros or Rhodes?

In either Paros or Rhodes, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Rhodes has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rhodes than Paros. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rhodes than Paros 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 Rhodes.


  • How many days in Paros or Rhodes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Rhodes 3-5

One day in Paros or Rhodes?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paros. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Rhodes, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this ancient destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paros or Rhodes?

Paros is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rhodes. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Paros or Rhodes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paros. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rhodes is a fun place to experience. In Rhodes, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paros or Rhodes?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Paros. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the ancient destination of Rhodes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens.


Which place is cheaper, Rhodes or Paros?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Paros is €154, while the average daily cost in Rhodes is €170. 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 Paros and Rhodes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Rhodes 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Rhodes 116
Compare Hotels in Paros and Rhodes

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Rhodes? 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 Paros


Hotels in Rhodes


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: Paros Hotel Prices and Rhodes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Rhodes 48

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Rhodes:


  • Taxi Ride
    7.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rhodes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rhodes:

  • VIP TRANSFER FROM/TO RHODES AIRPORT OR TOWN FROM/TO ANYWHERE: $41
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rhodos APT-HTL (RHO): $57
  • Transfers Rhodes airport : transportation , tours .: $38
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Stegna-Archangelos (Via Versa): $103
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Pastida (Via Versa): $45
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Ladiko Hotels ( Via Versa ): $72
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Lachania (Via Versa): $169
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Kremasti ( Via Versa): $35
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Kolymbia Hotels (Via Versa): $88
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Kiotari-Lardos ( Via Versa): $169
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Kalithea Hotels (Via Versa): $62
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Kalathos-Vlicha (Via Versa): $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Rhodes?

Prices for flights to both Rhodes and Paros 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
    Paros 77
    Rhodes 82

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paros

For Paros, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Two and half-hours Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Amorgos: $61
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $85
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $112
  • Paros Cooking Class: $114
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $729

Typical Food Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rhodes:


  • Coffee
    1.95
  • Dinner for Two
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rhodes

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

  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Buffet & Drinks: $48
  • Sip & Savor 11-Dish Wine Pairing and Cooking Adventure: $72
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $74
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $75
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $83
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $84
  • Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $91
  • Tasting Cooking Class, Wine Tasting & more in an Authentic Greek village: $102
  • Cooking Lesson and Wine Tasting with Lunch: $122
  • Private Half-Day Food Tour in the Rhode's Medieval Town: $140
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $370
  • Walking Food Tour in the Medieval Town of Rhodes: $370

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Rhodes 19

Tours and Activities in Paros

For Paros, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self Guided Sifnos North Side History Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Hiking tour on Kythnos: $48
  • One Day Cruise to Koufonissi from Paros Island: $60
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Paros and Antiparos Islands from Paros : $68
  • Paros Sunset Cruise: $73
  • From Paros Island Bus Tour and Boat Trip to Antiparos: $74
  • Paros Bus Island Tour: $75
  • Half Day Boat Tour from Naoussa port and Bay . : $83
  • Island Horseback Riding Adventure: $85
  • Full Day Cruise to Delos and Mykonos Islands from Paros: $86
  • Full-Day Paros and Antiparos Islands French Tour by Bus : $89
  • Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Amorgos: $92

Tours and Activities in Rhodes

Here are a few actual costs in Rhodes for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Best Rhodes Tour from Cruise Port including Lindos and Old Town : $70
  • Full Day Sail Cruise In Greece: $138
  • Private Full Day Tour Introducing the Most & the Best of Rhodes : $95
  • Rhodes, Lindos and Medieval City Guided Tour: $76
  • Sunset Picnic Experience on Rhodes Island: $113
  • 2-Country Tour in Speedboat to Marmaris Turkey and Rhodes: $50
  • 3-hour Guided Submarine Tour in Saint Paul's Bay, Lindos and Navarone Bay: $38
  • 3-hour boat tour: $48
  • 30m Wooden traditional Boat - 6.5 Hours Day Cruise in Rhodes: $70
  • 4x4 Buggy Adventures - Off-road Polaris Experience: $118
  • 6 Hour Best of Rhodes Tour for Cruise Passengers & Air Visitors: $53
  • 6-Hour Guided Tour in the Main Ancient Attractions of Rhodes: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Rhodes 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

Also in Paros, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine tasting at Local Winery: $32
  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $159
  • 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $161

Sample the Local Flavors in Rhodes

Also in Rhodes, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Beginners: $37
  • Private Wine Tasting Under the Guidance of a Sommelier in Rhodes: $38
  • Rhodian Wines - Private Wine Tasting Under a Sommelier: $52
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $54
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $54
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Lindos, Old Town & Wine Tasting: $58
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $59
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $63
  • Gourmet Journey: 11-Course Lunch, Wine Tasting & Culinary Session: $85
  • Rhodes Wine Tasting Experience: $85
  • Private Lavish Wine Tour visiting Emponas, Kritinia and Pataludes Wine Producers: $95


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


Which is Bigger, Paros or Rhodes?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Rhodes, 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.