A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rhodes vs. Piazza Armerina for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina. 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. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Rhodes and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Piazza Armerina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rhodes is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina is more popular for its historical sights. Rhodes is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Rhodes different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Piazza Armerina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.


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

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town 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).

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rhodes. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a resort destination.


Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.


Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.


Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good island for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

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

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

Rhodes is notable for its public transit. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Piazza Armerina has some public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.


Is Rhodes or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Piazza Armerina

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

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns 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 Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rhodes or Piazza Armerina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rhodes than Piazza Armerina because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 1-2 days is enough time in Piazza Armerina.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rhodes 3-5 
    Piazza Armerina 1-2

One day in Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

The diverse destination of Rhodes offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina?

The island of Rhodes offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina?

Rhodes is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rhodes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming destination of Piazza Armerina. This town 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina is €93. 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 Piazza Armerina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Piazza Armerina 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Piazza Armerina 112
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Piazza Armerina

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Piazza Armerina? 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 Piazza Armerina


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 Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
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:

  • Private One Way Rhodes Airport Transfer To or From Rhodes: $12
  • One Way Shuttle Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos-Ixia: $14
  • Rhodes Private Departure Transfer to Rhodes Airport: $19
  • Rhodes arrival Private Transfer from Rhodes Airport to any resort: $19
  • Lindos comfortable Transfer with aprx 5hrs Free Time: $21
  • Lindos: Transfer to Lindos with 4-Hour Stop (Small Group): $24
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos - Ixia: $24
  • Rhodes Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $25
  • Rhodes to Rhodes Int Airport (RHO) - Departure Private Transfer: $25
  • Rhodes Int Airport(RHO) to Rhodes city - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • From Lindos Round-Trip Bus Transfer with Free Time: $26
  • Private Transfer from Rhodes Cruise Port to Rhodes Airport (RHO): $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

Prices for flights to both Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Tours and Activities in Rhodes

Here are a few actual costs in Rhodes for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Rhodes Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Palace of the Grand Master Admission Ticket: $11
  • Palace of the Grand Master E-Ticket & Optional Audio: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Outdoor Scavenger Hunt and Tour of Rhodes Old Town: $11
  • Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views from Rhodes: $11
  • Rhodes Town: Yellow Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views: $11
  • Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • The Palace of the Grand Master. Self-guided Audio Tour: $13
  • The Palace of the Grand Master E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Throne of Helios: The History of Rhodes 9D Experience: $14

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes 12
    Piazza Armerina 13

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rhodes and Piazza Armerina, we can see that Rhodes is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

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


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Piazza Armerina?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Piazza Armerina, 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.