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

Should you visit Rhodes or Naples?

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 Naples. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Naples?

Both Naples and Rhodes have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Rhodes is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Naples is known for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities. Rhodes is more touristy than Naples and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Rhodes different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Naples 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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

Both Rhodes and Naples offer world-class local cuisine and 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).

For foodies, Naples is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

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 Naples Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Naples is not a beach destination.

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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Naples?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Naples 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 Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Families?

Rhodes is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Couples?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes and Naples 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 Naples. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Rhodes or Naples Better for Students?

Naples is a good destination for students. However, Rhodes is not popular with students.

Naples is popular with students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Rhodes or Naples a more walkable city?

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

Naples is a very walkable city. The historic center is flat and 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 Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Naples?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Rhodes. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Naples is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Naples?

Rhodes is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rhodes. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Don't miss the food, 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 Naples?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the world famous destination of Rhodes. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Naples. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 71% larger than the population of Rhodes. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Naples, 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.