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

Should you visit Rhodes or Portimao?

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 Portimao. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Portimao

Portimao is a vibrant, colorful, and stunning coastal city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Portimao: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Portimao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Portimao are both popular with visitors, Rhodes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rhodes is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, and shopping, while Portimao is known for its nightlife. Portimao is more touristy than Rhodes and is known for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. 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 Portimao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Portimao

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rhodes on the map. 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.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city 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).

Portimao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many resorts have attached restaurants where visitors often find themselves dining. For a slightly more local vibe, you can check out one of the many restaurants around town. Much of the restaurant scene is centered around the Alvor District where you'll find unique options that serve local dishes mixed in with some international choices. The city is most famous for its grilled sardines, which are considered a local specialty.

Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Portimao

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

Portimao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.

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 Portimao Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Portimao

There are terrific resorts to choose from in both Rhodes and Portimao.

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, Portimao is a great choice. The area has all types of resorts, from all-inclusive options to luxury or more family-friendly. Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach.


Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Portimao

You'll find excellent places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Rhodes and Portimao.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Portimao. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes and Portimao both offer terrific beaches.

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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Portimao. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Portimao 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.

Portimao is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Portimao?

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for shopping.

Rhodes is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portimao. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Families?

Rhodes
Portimao

Portimao is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rhodes is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Portimao is very family-friendly. Kids will love the wide range of activities available near Portimao. They can kayak through caves, see an underwater world snorkeling, learn to surf, visit waterparks, explore nature parks, and more. There are activities that the whole family can enjoy, making this stretch of coastline the perfect option for those traveling with kids.

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.

Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes and Portimao both terrific 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.

Portimao makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers unique beaches and stunning outdoor activities. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. There are great restaurants as well as places to relax or activities for thrill seekers.


Is Rhodes or Portimao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rhodes is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 budget travelers visit Portimao. Most people think of high end resorts when they think of the Mediterranean coast, but there are a couple of hostels available for backpackers. You should also consider transportation options. While buses are available, many visitors prefer to have access to a car so they can experience the outlying regions. The good news is the area in general is not particularly expensive so you can enjoy a touch of luxury at a lower cost.

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

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Portimao. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.

Is Rhodes or Portimao a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Portimao

Rhodes and Portimao both are decent when exploring on foot.

Rhodes is generally not very walkable. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.

Portimao is generally not a very walkable island. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Rhodes Worth Visiting? and Is Portimao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portimao or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Portimao?

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

Families should spend more time in Portimao than Rhodes. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Portimao, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Rhodes than Portimao. 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 Portimao 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 Portimao? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rhodes 3-5 
    Portimao 2-4

One day in Rhodes or Portimao?

The beautiful island of Rhodes offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Portimao. 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 Portimao?

Rhodes is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Rhodes is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rhodes, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portimao. Don't miss the beaches, 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 Portimao?

Rhodes is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Portimao. This coastal city 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.


Which place is cheaper, Portimao 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 Portimao is €152. 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 Portimao in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Portimao 78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Portimao 156
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Portimao

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Portimao? 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 Portimao


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 Portimao Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Portimao 37
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 Roundtrip Transfer in Small Group & 5-hour Free Time: $22
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos - Ixia: $24
  • Rhodes Private Departure Transfer: $25
  • Rhodes Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $25
  • Rhodes Int Airport(RHO) to Rhodes city - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Rhodes to Rhodes Int Airport (RHO) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Rhodes town: $29
  • From Lindos Round-Trip Bus Transfer with Free Time: $29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portimao

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portimao:

  • Alvor, Carvoeiro or Portimão Transfer to Faro Airport FAO - Private Vehicle: $60
  • Carvoeiro Private Transfer to Faro Airport: $86
  • Private Airport Transfer To Armação De Pera Area: $117
  • Private Transfer from Algoz to Faro (FAO) Airport: $82
  • Private Transfer from Aljezur to Faro (FAO) Airport: $239
  • Private Transfer from Alvor to Faro (FAO) Airport: $81
  • Private Transfer from Alvor to Faro Airport (1-4 pax): $111
  • Private Transfer from Armaçao de Pera to Faro (FAO) Airport: $55
  • Private Transfer from Carvoeiro to Faro (FAO) Airport: $68
  • Private Transfer from Estombar to Faro (FAO) Airport: $95
  • Private Transfer from Estrada da Galé to Faro (FAO) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer from Ferragudo to Faro (FAO) Airport: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Portimao?

Prices for flights to both Portimao 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
    Portimao 45
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.

  • 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
  • Rhodes Exclusive Sunset Cruise incl. Gourmet Dinner, Drinks, Sax!: $67
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $71
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $73
  • Sip & Savor 11-Dish Wine Pairing and Cooking Adventure: $74
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $77
  • Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting: $77
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $78
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $85
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portimao

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

  • Algarve wine tour and mountain top trip with lunch or dinner at sunset time: $149

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Portimao 41

Tours and Activities in Rhodes

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

  • Palace of the Grand Master Admission Ticket: $5.99
  • Palace of the Grand Master E-Ticket & Optional Audio: $5.99
  • Rhodes Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour: $7.08
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.08
  • Entrance Ticket for Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes: $7.21
  • Acropolis of Lindos: 3D Representations & Audio Self-Guided Tour w/ AR: $7.76
  • Ancient Lindos Acropolis Regular Admission Ticket: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Outdoor Scavenger Hunt and Tour of Rhodes Old Town: $11
  • Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Rhodes Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Rhodes Town: 45’ Semi-Submarine Cruise with Drinks Included: $13

Tours and Activities in Portimao

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

  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunrise Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 minutes Sunset Tour: $16
  • From Portimão to Paradise 60 min Tour: $16
  • SUP - Stand Up Paddle Algarve Adventure: $17
  • Sunrise Benagil Full Caves Tour: $19
  • Benagil Cave Sunset Cruise: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunrise Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 minutes Sunset Tour: $22
  • From Portimão to Paradise 90 min Tour: $22
  • Express Tour - Benagil Cave: $22
  • From Portimão Early Birds Benagil Tour By Traditional Boat: $24
  • Portimão: Benagil Caves Speedboat Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes 12
    Portimao 30

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
  • Private Wine Tasting Under the Guidance of a Sommelier in Rhodes: $39
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $55
  • Full Day Guided Rhodes Island Cultural & Wine Tour: $57
  • Enchanting Lindos, Old Town, History, Culture & Wine Tour: $57
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $60
  • Full Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $61
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $61
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $65
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $65

Sample the Local Flavors in Portimao

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

  • Wine Tasting and Art Tour: $40
  • Algarve Wine Tasting & Music Experience: $61
  • Algarve Wine Tour of Two Wine Estates: $75
  • Algarve wine tour of 2 wine estates and lunch at the countryside: $156
  • Algarve wine tour and farmer's lunch at wine estate: $185
  • Alentejo Wine Tour from the Algarve: $213


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


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Portimao?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Portimao, 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.