A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rhodes vs. Baden-Baden for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

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 Rhodes and Baden-Baden. 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.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a world famous, ancient, and beautiful island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a historic, relaxing, and nature-oriented spa town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Rhodes and Baden-Baden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rhodes than Baden-Baden. Rhodes is bigger than Baden-Baden, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rhodes is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town. Baden-Baden is well known for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals.

How is Rhodes different from Baden-Baden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rhodes are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Baden-Baden. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

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

Both Rhodes and Baden-Baden offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Rhodes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

For foodies, Baden-Baden is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Rhodes and Baden-Baden.

Rhodes has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Baden-Baden has a few options to choose from. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Baden-Baden is not a resort destination.

Rhodes offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Baden-Baden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Rhodes to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Rhodes are among the best in the world. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Rhodes draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Rhodes make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Baden-Baden has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Families?

Both Rhodes and Baden-Baden are great family-friendly destinations.

Rhodes is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baden-Baden. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Couples?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for couples.

Rhodes has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Baden-Baden makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rhodes is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

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

Rhodes is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Rhodes can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.

Is Rhodes or Baden-Baden a more walkable city?

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

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

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 Rhodes Worth Visiting? and Is Baden-Baden Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Baden-Baden or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rhodes and Baden-Baden. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rhodes than in Baden-Baden. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 1-3 days is enough time in Baden-Baden.

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

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

One day in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the world famous island of Rhodes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Baden-Baden. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Rhodes. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Baden-Baden is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the diverse island of Rhodes. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Baden-Baden. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Rhodes. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Baden-Baden. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Baden-Baden?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Baden-Baden. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Baden-Baden, 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.