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

Should you visit Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia. 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 diverse, active, and world famous island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Rhodes and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Rhodes is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also home to Rhodes Old Town. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Rhodes different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Rhodes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Rhodes is a great 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.

Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.


Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Rhodes. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.


Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

People visit Rhodes specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rhodes is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Rhodes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Ventimiglia is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

Rhodes is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.


Is Rhodes or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Ventimiglia

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

Ventimiglia is a very walkable seaside town. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

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

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rhodes 3-5 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the ancient island of Rhodes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the ancient destination of Rhodes. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the active island of Rhodes. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Rhodes. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia 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 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia is €121. 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 Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes or Ventimiglia? 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 Ventimiglia


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 Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Ventimiglia 49
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 Airport Transfer to Rhodes Town city or Faliraki (ONE WAY: $54
  • Airport Transfer - From/To Airport - From/To Rhodes: $52
  • Butterfly Valley and Seven Springs Valley Self-guided Transfer: $32
  • Diagoras Airport: Private One-Way Transfer to/from Rhodes: $33
  • From Rhodes To Lindos ! Private one way transfer : $163
  • From Lindos Round-Trip Bus Transfer with Free Time: $26
  • Lindos Day Cruise from Rhodes Town with Swimming stops and Hotel Transfers: $54
  • Lindos comfortable Transfer with aprx 5hrs Free Time: $21
  • Lindos: Transfer to Lindos with 4-Hour Stop (Small Group): $23
  • One Way Private Airport Transfers Rhodes Island: $60
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Faliraki: $36
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos - Ixia: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
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: $43
  • Rhodes Sunset Cruise - Dinner with Live Music set: $43
  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $53
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $69
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $72
  • Sip & Savor 11-Dish Wine Pairing and Cooking Adventure: $73
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $75
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $76
  • Sunset Cruise w/ Gourmet Dinner, Drinks & Live Music: $77
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $85
  • Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes: $86
  • Tasting Cooking Class, Wine Tasting & more in an Authentic Greek village: $103

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

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

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $94
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Ventimiglia 27

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 E-Ticket & Optional Audio: $5.86
  • Rhodes Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour: $6.93
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.93
  • Palace of the Grand Master Admission Ticket: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Outdoor Scavenger Hunt and Tour of Rhodes Old Town: $11
  • Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views from Rhodes: $11
  • Rhodes Town: Yellow Submarine Cruise with Underwater Views: $11
  • Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Palace of the Grand Master Refundable Entrance Ticket: $13
  • The Palace of the Grand Master. Self-guided Audio Tour: $13
  • The Palace of the Grand Master E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

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

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rhodes 12
    Ventimiglia 7.19

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: $37
  • Rhodian Wines - Private Wine Tasting Under a Sommelier: $53
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $54
  • Full Day Guided Rhodes Island Cultural & Wine Tour: $55
  • Enchanting Lindos, Old Town, History, Culture & Wine Tour: $55
  • Full Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $60
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $60
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $64
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $64
  • Full-Day Сomprehensive Tour of Rhodes including Wine Tasting : $66


When comparing the travel costs between Rhodes and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Ventimiglia?

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