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

Should you visit Rhodes or York?

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 York. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes and York: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or York?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rhodes than York. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rhodes is very popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while York attracts visitors for its nightlife and historical sights. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town. York is famous for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is Rhodes different from York?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rhodes that are not to be missed. 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.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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

Both Rhodes and York offer amazing 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, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Is Rhodes or York Better for Nightlife?

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

York is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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 York Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, York 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.

York is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or York Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, York 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.

York is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or York Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, York is not a beach destination.

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.

York is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or York Better for its Old Town?

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

York has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or York Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, York 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.

York is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or York?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Rhodes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is Rhodes or York Better for Families?

York 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, York is very family-friendly. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York Better for Couples?

Rhodes is a world-class destination for romance. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Is Rhodes or York Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes and York are superb 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 York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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

Rhodes is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Rhodes is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is Rhodes or York a more walkable city?

York is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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 York Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in York or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or York?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Rhodes than York. 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 York 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 York?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rhodes. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of York. 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 York?

Rhodes is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

York 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 York?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the world famous destination of Rhodes. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 York?

The diverse island of Rhodes offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of York. 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 10-Day Tours from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or York?

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