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

Should you visit Rhodes or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Genoa are both popular with visitors, Rhodes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rhodes is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Genoa is known for its historical sights. Rhodes is popular for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also home to Rhodes Old Town. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Rhodes different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rhodes has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.


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

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Genoa

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

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 Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a resort destination.


Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

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.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Rhodes
Genoa

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

Many people head to Genoa to see the old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.


Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for hiking. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Genoa?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Rhodes specifically to go shopping. 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Families?

Rhodes
Genoa

Both Rhodes and Genoa 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 Genoa. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.


Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes is terrific for couples. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Genoa

Rhodes and Genoa are great places to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Rhodes or Genoa Better for Students?

Rhodes
Genoa

Genoa is well known for students. However, Rhodes is not popular with students.

Many students visit Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Rhodes is not popular with students.


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

Rhodes
Genoa

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Rhodes and Genoa.

Public transit in Rhodes can get you to some places easily. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Rhodes or Genoa a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Genoa

Genoa is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Genoa is a very walkable port city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy 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 Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Rhodes or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rhodes due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Genoa. 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 Genoa. 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 Genoa 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 Rhodes or Genoa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rhodes 3-5 
    Genoa 2-4

One day in Rhodes or Genoa?

In Rhodes, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this diverse 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Genoa. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Rhodes or Genoa?

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.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. 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 Genoa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Genoa. This port 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, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa or Rhodes?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Rhodes is €135, while the average daily cost in Genoa is €150. 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 Rhodes and Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Genoa 88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Genoa 176
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Genoa? 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 Rhodes


Hotels in Genoa


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: Rhodes Hotel Prices and Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Genoa 8.69
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:

  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Gennadi (and return): $287
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kiotari (and return): $261
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Glistra-Glystra (and return): $247
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Pefki (and return): $232
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Lardos - Lindos (and return): $229
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Vlicha (and return): $195
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kalathos (and return): $190
  • From Rhodes To Lindos ! Private one way transfer : $189
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Haraki - Charaki (and return): $166
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Embona (and return): $156
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kamiros (and return): $156
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Salakos (and return): $156

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

Also for Genoa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Genoa Airport (GOA) to Portofino Hotels: $54
  • Departure Private Transfer Genoa, Savona or Portofino to GOA Airport by Sedan: $44
  • Departure Private Transfer from Genoa to La Spezia by car or van: $254
  • From Genoa to Florence Hotels - Private Transfer: $147
  • From Genova: Portofino Return Transfer by Open-Top Bus: $64
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Genoa - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Genoa - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Arrival Private Transfer: $113
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $226
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Portofino hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Genoa Airport (GOA): Private Transfer to Genoa city: $170
  • Genoa Airport (GOA): Private Transfer to/from Milan City: $1,121

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa and Rhodes 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
    Rhodes 47
    Genoa 51
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.

  • All Inclusive Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Unlimited Aperol Spritz, Beer, Wine: $44
  • Rhodes Sunset Cruise - Dinner with Live Music set: $44
  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $54
  • Rhodes Exclusive Sunset Cruise incl. Gourmet Dinner, Drinks, Sax!: $67
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $71
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $73
  • Sip & Savor 11-Dish Wine Pairing and Cooking Adventure: $74
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $77
  • Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting: $77
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $78
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $85
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

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

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $69
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $75
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $76
  • Street Food Tour: $86
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $88
  • Traditional Food Tour: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $94
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $94
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Santa Margherita Ligure with Show Cooking: $94
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $94
  • Lunch or dinner with an Italian family with cooking demo and wines - Rapallo: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Rhodes

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

  • 3 Hour Yellow Semi Submarine Swimming Cruise with Drinks Included!: $55
  • Full Day Sail Cruise In Greece: $142
  • Private Full Day Tour Introducing the Most & the Best of Rhodes : $98
  • Private Swimming Snorkeling Experience at the Most Beautiful Bays of Rhodes : $74
  • Rhodes Town Day Tour from Kolymbia in a High Speed Boat: $50
  • Shore Excursion of History, Sightseeing, Wine & Shopping: $52
  • 3-hour Guided Submarine Tour in Saint Paul's Bay, Lindos and Navarone Bay: $52
  • 3-hour boat tour: $50
  • 30m Wooden traditional Boat - 6.5 Hours Day Cruise in Rhodes: $72
  • 4 Hour Beach Tour with Meal and Unlimited Drinks in Rhodes: $122
  • 4x4 Buggy Adventures - Off-road Polaris Experience: $122
  • 6 Hour Best of Rhodes Tour for Cruise Passengers & Air Visitors: $53

Tours and Activities in Genoa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Genoa.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.27
  • Genoa Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.65
  • Skip the Line: Single ticket to visit the Open Air Museum, Museum, Lighthouse: $6.65
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $7.08
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.08
  • Lighthouse Entrance Ticket: $8.71
  • Finance and Nobility: Explore medieval Genoa on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Finance and Nobility Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Historic Guided Tour of Christopher Columbus' House: $11
  • The City of Children and Young Museum Entry Ticket: $13
  • Calvino Cantafavole Entry Ticket: $14
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Historical Center: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes 12
    Genoa 10

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: $38
  • Private Wine Tasting Under the Guidance of a Sommelier in Rhodes: $39
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $55
  • Full Day Guided Rhodes Island Cultural & Wine Tour: $57
  • Enchanting Lindos, Old Town, History, Culture & Wine Tour: $57
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $60
  • Full Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $61
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $61
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $65
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $65

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Genoa:

  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $92
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $127


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


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Rhodes. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Genoa, 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.