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

Should you visit Rhodes or Manchester?

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 Manchester. 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 active, world famous, and ancient island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Rhodes and Manchester: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Manchester?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes than Manchester. 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, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Manchester attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Rhodes is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town. Manchester is famous for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Rhodes different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.


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

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Rhodes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Manchester

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

Manchester is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

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 Manchester Better for Music?

Rhodes
Manchester

Manchester is well known for its live music scene. However, Rhodes is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Rhodes is not a live music destination.


Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Manchester is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Rhodes is a perfect choice. 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.

Manchester is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Manchester is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Manchester is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for its beaches. However, Manchester is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Rhodes is a very popular vacation 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.

Manchester is not a beach destination.


Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for hiking. However, Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Rhodes specifically for its hiking. 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.

Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Manchester?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for shopping. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Families?

Rhodes
Manchester

Both Rhodes and Manchester are high quality 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 Manchester. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.


Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is very popular for romance. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Rhodes 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.

Manchester is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Manchester

Rhodes is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Rhodes or Manchester Better for Students?

Rhodes
Manchester

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

Many students visit Manchester. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Rhodes is not popular with students.


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

Rhodes
Manchester

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

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 Manchester. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Is Rhodes or Manchester a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Manchester

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

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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 Manchester Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Manchester?

It's fun to spend time in either Rhodes or Manchester. 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 Manchester.

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

One day in Rhodes or Manchester?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ancient island of Rhodes, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Manchester is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Rhodes or Manchester?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Rhodes, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Manchester 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 Manchester?

Rhodes, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Rhodes is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the dynamic big city of Manchester. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Manchester 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 Manchester is €215. 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 Manchester in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Manchester 83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Manchester 166
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Manchester

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Manchester? 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 Manchester


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 Manchester Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Manchester 22
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 Kiotari (and return): $256
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Glistra-Glystra (and return): $244
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Pefki (and return): $228
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Lardos - Lindos (and return): $225
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Vlicha (and return): $192
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kalathos (and return): $186
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Embona (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kamiros (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Salakos (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Stegna (and return): $138
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Archangelos (and return): $132
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kolympia (and return): $122

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Manchester

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Manchester are as follows:


  • Rail to Airport
    13
  • Parking in Manchester
    3.51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Manchester

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Manchester Airport MAN to Liverpool in Business Car: $121
  • Manchester Airport (MAN) to Manchester - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Manchester Airport (MAN): Private Transfer to Liverpool City: $249
  • Manchester Airport (MAN): Private Transfer to Manchester: $155
  • Manchester Airport(MAN) to Liverpool- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $157
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from London: $8.12
  • Manchester Private Transfer from Manchester Airport to City centre: $75
  • 1-Wsy Airport Bus Transfer to/from Leeds: $6.86
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Manchester Airport: $99
  • Private Round-Trip Transfer From Manchester Airport to Old Trafford Stadium: $279
  • Private Transfer Manchester Airport to Lake District Ski Club: $87
  • Private Transfer from Astley to Manchester Airport (MAN): $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Manchester?

Prices for flights to both Manchester 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
    Manchester 65
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.

  • Rhodes Sunset Cruise - Dinner with Live Music set: $44
  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $53
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $70
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $72
  • Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting: $75
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $75
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $76
  • Sunset Cruise w/ Gourmet Dinner, Drinks & Live Music: $77
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $84
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $85
  • Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $86
  • Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes: $86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Manchester

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Pistachio LOVERS Italian Dinner Experience: $35
  • Private Italian Dinner with a Romantic Night Experience: $63
  • 2 Hours Sicilian Wine Tasting and Dinner at Manchester: $76
  • Manchester Food Tour with a Local Guide: $87
  • Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch: $89
  • 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch : $95
  • Private Food Tour with Local Guide: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Manchester 35

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: $140
  • Private Full Day Tour Introducing the Most & the Best of Rhodes : $96
  • Private Swimming Snorkeling Experience at the Most Beautiful Bays of Rhodes : $73
  • Rhodes Town Day Tour from Kolymbia in a High Speed Boat: $49
  • Rhodes, Lindos and Medieval City Guided Tour: $77
  • 3-hour Guided Submarine Tour in Saint Paul's Bay, Lindos and Navarone Bay: $38
  • 30m Wooden traditional Boat - 6.5 Hours Day Cruise in Rhodes: $71
  • 4 Hour Beach Tour with Meal and Unlimited Drinks in Rhodes: $120
  • 4x4 Buggy Adventures - Off-road Polaris Experience: $120
  • 6-Hour Guided Tour in the Main Ancient Attractions of Rhodes: $71
  • 90 min Sunset Cruise to Anthony Quinn Bay with Unlimited Drinks!: $33

Tours and Activities in Manchester

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

  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Manchester City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Manchester’s Rebirth and Renewal: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • England's First Industrial City: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Manchester Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Manchester Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Salford Quays Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Canal & River Cruise: $15
  • City River Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes 12
    Manchester 12

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: $37
  • Rhodian Wines - Private Wine Tasting Under a Sommelier: $53
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $55
  • Enchanting Lindos, Old Town, History, Culture & Wine Tour: $56
  • Full Day Guided Rhodes Island Cultural & Wine Tour: $56
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $59
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $60
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $60
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $62
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $64
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $64
  • Full-Day Сomprehensive Tour of Rhodes including Wine Tasting : $67

Sample the Local Flavors in Manchester

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Manchester:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars: $101


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

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


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Manchester?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Manchester, 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.