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

Should you visit Rhodes or Novalja?

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 Novalja. 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 diverse, active, and world famous island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Novalja

Novalja is a energetic, backpacker-filled, and wild town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches.

Rhodes and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Novalja?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Novalja, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rhodes is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Novalja is more popular for its nightlife. Rhodes is well known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town. Novalja is well known for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Rhodes different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.

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

Rhodes is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Rhodes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

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

Novalja is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

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 Novalja Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is very popular for its resorts. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Rhodes is a great 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.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Novalja is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Novalja is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is very popular for the beache. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Rhodes. 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.

Novalja is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Novalja is not a hiking destination.

People visit Rhodes specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Novalja is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Novalja?

Rhodes is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Families?

Rhodes is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Couples?

Rhodes is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Rhodes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Novalja is a good island for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Rhodes or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Novalja is very popular for backpackers. Also, Rhodes is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Novalja. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

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

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

Rhodes has some very good public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

While Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Rhodes or Novalja a more walkable city?

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

Novalja is a somewhat walkable place. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

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 Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Novalja?

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

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

In Rhodes, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Novalja. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rhodes or Novalja?

In Rhodes, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Novalja 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 Novalja?

Rhodes is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rhodes has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rhodes. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Rhodes. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled destination of Novalja. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Novalja?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Novalja, 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.