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

Should you visit Rhodes or Nice?

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 Nice. 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 ancient, beautiful, and diverse island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nice

Nice is a glamourous, beautiful, and opulent seaside destination. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Rhodes and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Nice?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rhodes than Nice. Rhodes is bigger than Nice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rhodes is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Nice is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Rhodes and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Rhodes is well known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town.

How is Rhodes different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rhodes are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Rhodes and Nice offer fantastic 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, Nice is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Nightlife?

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

Nice is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Better for Resorts?

There are fantastic resorts to choose from in both Rhodes and Nice.

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, Nice is a great choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Rhodes is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is renowned for the beache. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for the beach.

Rhodes is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Many people visit Nice for it's beautiful beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice 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 Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Nice is not a hiking destination.

Around Rhodes visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Nice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Nice?

Rhodes is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Rhodes make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nice. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Families?

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

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.

Nice is a family-friendly island. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Couples?

Rhodes and Nice both fantastic destinations for a couple.

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.

Nice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

Is Rhodes or Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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 backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Rhodes or Nice 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 Nice.

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 Nice. There are both buses and trams.

Is Rhodes or Nice a more walkable city?

Nice is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Nice on foot is easy. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Nice?

In either Rhodes or Nice, 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 Nice. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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 shopping and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rhodes or Nice?

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.

Nice 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.

Five days in Rhodes or Nice?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the ancient 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 Nice. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Nice?

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 opulent destination of Nice. This seaside destination 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Nice?

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