A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rhodes vs. Caltagirone for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Rhodes or Caltagirone?

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 Caltagirone. 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 ancient, beautiful, and diverse island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a quaint, friendly, and charming city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Rhodes and Caltagirone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Caltagirone?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Caltagirone are both popular with visitors, Rhodes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rhodes is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Caltagirone is known for its historical sights. Rhodes is more touristy than Caltagirone and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also home to Rhodes Old Town. Caltagirone is popular for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase.

How is Rhodes different from Caltagirone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone?

Rhodes is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rhodes on the map. 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.

Caltagirone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.

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

Rhodes is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Rhodes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Caltagirone. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes is a island with good options for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is terrific for its resorts. However, Caltagirone is not a resort destination.

Rhodes is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Caltagirone is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Caltagirone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Rhodes is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Caltagirone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is terrific for the beach. However, Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

Rhodes is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Caltagirone is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for its Old Town?

Caltagirone is a good destination for its old town. However, Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Caltagirone to see the old town. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Caltagirone is not a hiking destination.

Around Rhodes visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Caltagirone is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Caltagirone?

Rhodes is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Rhodes is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Caltagirone. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Families?

Rhodes is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Caltagirone is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Couples?

Rhodes is terrific for couples. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Rhodes is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Caltagirone is a nice destination for couples. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is well known for backpackers. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

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

Rhodes is well known for its public transit. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Caltagirone offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel in and out of town.

Is Rhodes or Caltagirone a more walkable city?

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

Caltagirone is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose to explore on foot.

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 Caltagirone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Caltagirone or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Caltagirone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rhodes or Caltagirone to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rhodes than Caltagirone because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 1-2 days is enough time in Caltagirone.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Caltagirone. 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 Caltagirone. 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 Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful 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 shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Caltagirone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Caltagirone?

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.

Caltagirone is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. 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 Caltagirone?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the active 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 Caltagirone. 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 Caltagirone?

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 friendly destination of Caltagirone. This city 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 Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Caltagirone?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Caltagirone. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Caltagirone, 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.