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

Should you visit Rhodes or Salzburg?

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 Salzburg. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a beautiful, musical, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Rhodes and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Salzburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Salzburg, 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, and hiking, while Salzburg is known for its music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Rhodes and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. 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 Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

Rhodes is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Rhodes and Salzburg.

Rhodes has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Salzburg has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is very popular for its live music scene. However, Rhodes is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Salzburg Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Rhodes is not a live music destination.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is terrific for its resorts. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is terrific for the beach. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is very popular for its old town. However, Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Salzburg has a world-famous historical area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Salzburg?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Salzburg and Rhodes.

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.

Many people travel to Salzburg specifically to go shopping. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Families?

Both Rhodes and Salzburg are great 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 Salzburg. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Couples?

Rhodes and Salzburg both world-class 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.

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes and Salzburg are great places to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is very popular for students. However, Rhodes is not popular with students.

Salzburg is a very popular place to visit for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

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 Salzburg. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Rhodes or Salzburg a more walkable city?

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

Salzburg is a very walkable city. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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 Salzburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Salzburg?

In either Rhodes or Salzburg, 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 Salzburg. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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 food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Salzburg. 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 Salzburg?

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.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Rhodes or Salzburg?

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 Salzburg. 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 Salzburg?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting the musical destination of Salzburg. This 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Salzburg?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Salzburg, 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.