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

Should you visit Rhodes or Ghent?

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 Ghent. 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 beautiful, diverse, and active island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Ghent

Ghent is a under-rated, youthful, and high energy city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes than Ghent. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rhodes is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Ghent attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. Rhodes is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Rhodes different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rhodes that are not to be missed. 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.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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).

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Rhodes is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Ghent is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Ghent is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Rhodes offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is well known for its old town. However, Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Ghent?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Rhodes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Families?

Rhodes is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rhodes is 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly island. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Couples?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Rhodes is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Rhodes. 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 visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Rhodes or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is very popular for students. However, Rhodes is not popular with students.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

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

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

Ghent has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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

Is Rhodes or Ghent a more walkable city?

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

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally 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 Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Ghent?

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

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

In Rhodes, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this active 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 Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Ghent?

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.

Ghent is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Ghent?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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 high energy destination of Ghent. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Ghent?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Ghent, 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.