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

Should you visit Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

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 Sestri Levante. 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 ancient, beautiful, and diverse island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a quiet, scenic, and local seaside town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Rhodes and Sestri Levante: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Sestri Levante are both popular with visitors, Rhodes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rhodes is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Sestri Levante is known for its small town charm. Rhodes is more touristy than Sestri Levante and is popular for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also home to Rhodes Old Town. Sestri Levante is popular for its two bays and coastal setting.

How is Rhodes different from Sestri Levante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Rhodes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is a island with good options for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its resorts.

Rhodes is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Sestri Levante has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.


Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Rhodes is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for the beach. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its beaches.

Rhodes is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Sestri Levante offers a nice beach destination. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for hiking. However, Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.

Around Rhodes visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Families?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town 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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is renowned for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Rhodes is a great island for couples, as it 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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.


Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

Rhodes is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

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

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

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

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

Sestri Levante has a few public transit options. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

Is Rhodes or Sestri Levante a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Sestri Levante

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

Getting around Sestri Levante on foot is easy. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored 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 Sestri Levante Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sestri Levante or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rhodes and Sestri Levante. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rhodes than in Sestri Levante. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sestri Levante.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rhodes 3-5 
    Sestri Levante 1-3

One day in Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

In Rhodes, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sestri Levante might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

Rhodes is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rhodes. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the island of Rhodes. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Sestri Levante is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside town 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante is €143. 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 Sestri Levante in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Sestri Levante 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Sestri Levante 150
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Sestri Levante

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Sestri Levante? 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 Sestri Levante


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 Sestri Levante Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Sestri Levante 56
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:

  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Gennadi (and return): $286
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kiotari (and return): $259
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Lardos - Lindos (and return): $228
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Vlicha (and return): $194
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kalathos (and return): $189
  • From Rhodes To Lindos ! Private one way transfer : $188
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Haraki - Charaki (and return): $165
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Embona (and return): $156
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Salakos (and return): $155
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Stegna (and return): $140
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kolympia (and return): $124
  • Transfer from/to Rhodes Airport to/from Haraki (Via Versa): $112

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

Prices for flights to both Sestri Levante 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
    Sestri Levante 34
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.

  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $54
  • Sunset Cruise w/ Gourmet Dinner, Drinks & Live Music: $65
  • Rhodes Exclusive Sunset Cruise incl. Gourmet Dinner, Drinks, Sax!: $66
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $71
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $73
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $76
  • Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting: $76
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $77
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $85
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $86
  • Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes: $87
  • Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Sestri Levante 25

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: $141
  • Private Full Day Tour Introducing the Most & the Best of Rhodes : $97
  • Private Swimming Snorkeling Experience at the Most Beautiful Bays of Rhodes : $74
  • Rhodes Town Day Tour from Kolymbia in a High Speed Boat: $50
  • Shore Excursion of History, Sightseeing, Wine & Shopping: $51
  • 3-hour Guided Submarine Tour in Saint Paul's Bay, Lindos and Navarone Bay: $52
  • 30m Wooden traditional Boat - 6.5 Hours Day Cruise in Rhodes: $72
  • 4 Hour Beach Tour with Meal and Unlimited Drinks in Rhodes: $121
  • 4x4 Buggy Adventures - Off-road Polaris Experience: $121
  • 6 Hour Best of Rhodes Tour for Cruise Passengers & Air Visitors: $53
  • 6-Hour Guided Tour in the Main Ancient Attractions of Rhodes: $72

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

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

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $510

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes 12
    Sestri Levante 7.86

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
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $59
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $61
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $61
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $61
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $65
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $65
  • Gourmet Journey: 11-Course Lunch, Wine Tasting & Culinary Session: $87
  • Private Lavish Wine Tour visiting Emponas, Kritinia and Pataludes Wine Producers: $97
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience: $98


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


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Sestri Levante?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Sestri Levante, 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.