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

Should you visit Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Pittsburgh: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Pittsburgh, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rhodes is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Rhodes is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also home to Rhodes Old Town. Pittsburgh is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Rhodes different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rhodes has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.


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

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rhodes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.


Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Rhodes specifically to go shopping. 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.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rhodes. 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination 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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.


Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

Rhodes is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

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

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Rhodes. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Rhodes or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Pittsburgh

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

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable place. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around 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 Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rhodes and Pittsburgh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rhodes than in Pittsburgh. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

One day in Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pittsburgh. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

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.

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Rhodes?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Rhodes is $145, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes $62
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes $124
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Pittsburgh? 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 Pittsburgh


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 Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes $52
    Pittsburgh $22
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Rhodes:


  • Taxi Ride
    $7.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rhodes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rhodes:

  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Gennadi (and return): $283
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kiotari (and return): $258
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Pefki (and return): $229
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Lardos - Lindos (and return): $225
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Vlicha (and return): $193
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kalathos (and return): $188
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Haraki - Charaki (and return): $165
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Salakos (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kamiros (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Stegna (and return): $139
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Archangelos (and return): $133
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kolympia (and return): $123

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh 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 $51
    Pittsburgh $54
Typical Food Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rhodes:


  • Coffee
    $2.09
  • Dinner for Two
    $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rhodes

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rhodes.

  • All Inclusive Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Unlimited Aperol Spritz, Beer, Wine: $44
  • Rhodes Sunset Cruise - Dinner with Live Music set: $44
  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $54
  • 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: $76
  • Sunset Cruise w/ Gourmet Dinner, Drinks & Live Music: $77
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $86
  • Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $86
  • Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes: $87
  • Rhodes Exclusive Sunset Cruise incl. Gourmet Dinner, Drinks, Sax!: $88

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes $21
    Pittsburgh $38

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 : $97
  • 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: $78
  • 3-hour Guided Submarine Tour in Saint Paul's Bay, Lindos and Navarone Bay: $38
  • 4 Hour Beach Tour with Meal and Unlimited Drinks in Rhodes: $121
  • 4x4 Buggy Adventures - Off-road Polaris Experience: $121
  • 6-Hour Guided Tour in the Main Ancient Attractions of Rhodes: $71
  • 90 min Sunset Cruise to Anthony Quinn Bay with Unlimited Drinks!: $33
  • Acropolis of Lindos E-Ticket with Audio Tour on your Phone: $24

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Pittsburgh to Logstown Settler's History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.32
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Public Art Walking Tour: $30
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh 101 Walking History Tour: $32
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Downtown History and Architecture Tour: $33
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes $13
    Pittsburgh $33

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: $38
  • Rhodian Wines - Private Wine Tasting Under a Sommelier: $54
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $55
  • Enchanting Lindos, Old Town, History, Culture & Wine Tour: $56
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $59
  • Full Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • 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: $63
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $65
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $65
  • Full-Day Сomprehensive Tour of Rhodes including Wine Tasting : $67

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $50
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rhodes and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh is more expensive. And not only is Rhodes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rhodes is in Europe and Pittsburgh is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Pittsburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Pittsburgh?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 82% larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Pittsburgh, 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.