A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rhodes vs. Faro for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Rhodes or Faro?

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 Faro. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Faro

Faro is a busy, active, and popular resort town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Faro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Faro?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Faro are popular destinations, Rhodes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rhodes is very popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Faro attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town. Faro is famous for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Rhodes different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Rhodes from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rhodes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Nightlife?

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

Faro is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

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 Rhodes or Faro Better for Resorts?

There are world-class resorts to choose from in both Rhodes and Faro.

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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Faro is a great choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for the beache.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Faro is not a hiking destination.

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.

Faro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Faro?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rhodes. 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.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Families?

Rhodes is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Rhodes is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Couples?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

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.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Rhodes or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Rhodes is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Faro is a good island to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

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

Rhodes is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its public transit.

Public transit in Rhodes is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Rhodes or Faro a more walkable city?

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

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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 Faro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Faro or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Faro?

In either Rhodes or Faro, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Rhodes has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Rhodes than Faro. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 2-5 days is enough time in Faro.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rhodes. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rhodes or Faro?

Rhodes is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Faro 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 Faro?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the diverse destination of Rhodes. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Rhodes or Faro?

The world famous island of Rhodes offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the busy destination of Faro. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

When comparing the travel costs between Rhodes and Faro, 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 Rhodes Expensive? and Is Faro Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Faro?

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