A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rhodes vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Rhodes or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. 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 active, world famous, and ancient island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a iconic, one-of-a-kind, and ancient archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Rhodes and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Rhodes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pompeii is more touristy than Rhodes and is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Rhodes is popular for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also home to Rhodes Old Town.

How is Rhodes different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the first-rate sights and museums in both Rhodes and Pompeii.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Pompeii has many famous sights for visitors. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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

Rhodes is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Rhodes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Rhodes is a perfect 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is renowned for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Rhodes is a very popular vacation 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Rhodes specifically for its hiking. 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Pompeii?

Rhodes is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Families?

Both Rhodes and Pompeii are high quality family-friendly destinations.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Couples?

Rhodes is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Rhodes has plenty to offer. 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii Better for Students?

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

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

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

Rhodes is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Rhodes offers a very effecient public transportation network. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

You'll find some public transit in Pompeii, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Rhodes or Pompeii a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Pompeii on foot is easy. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rhodes or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rhodes than Pompeii 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 Pompeii.

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

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 museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Pompeii?

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.

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

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 Pompeii. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Pompeii?

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 museums when visiting the one-of-a-kind destination of Pompeii. This archeological site 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Rhodes and Pompeii, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive?.