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

Should you visit Rhodes or Porto?

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 Porto. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Porto?

Both Porto and Rhodes have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Rhodes is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Porto attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

How is Rhodes different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Rhodes from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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

Both Rhodes and Porto offer first-rate local cuisine and 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).

For foodies, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Nightlife?

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

Porto is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is very popular for its beaches. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto 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 Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is very popular for hiking. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Porto?

Rhodes is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rhodes. 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Families?

Both Rhodes and Porto 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 Porto. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Couples?

Rhodes is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Rhodes or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto 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 Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto Better for Students?

Porto is well known for students. However, Rhodes is not popular with students.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Rhodes and Porto.

Public transit in Rhodes can get you to some places easily. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Porto. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Is Rhodes or Porto a more walkable city?

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

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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 Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Porto?

In either Rhodes or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Rhodes has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Rhodes than Porto. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Porto. 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 Porto. 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 Porto than Rhodes 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 Porto.

One day in Rhodes or Porto?

In Rhodes, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this world famous destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Porto is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rhodes or Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rhodes. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Rhodes is a fun place to experience. In Rhodes, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Rhodes or Porto?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the world famous destination of Rhodes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Porto. This port city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Porto?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Porto, 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.