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

Should you visit Rhodes or Zurich?

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 Zurich. 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 beautiful, diverse, and active island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Rhodes and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Zurich?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rhodes than Zurich. Rhodes is bigger than Zurich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rhodes is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Zurich is more popular for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. Rhodes is well known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Rhodes different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rhodes are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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).

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its live music scene. However, Rhodes is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Rhodes is not a live music destination.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Resorts?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Rhodes for its luxury resorts. 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.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Rhodes offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

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

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Rhodes is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Zurich?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zurich 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 Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Families?

Both Rhodes and Zurich are excellent 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 Zurich. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Couples?

Rhodes is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Rhodes or Zurich Better for Students?

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

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Rhodes is not popular with students.

Is Rhodes or Zurich 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 Zurich.

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 Zurich. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Rhodes or Zurich a more walkable city?

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

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Zurich?

In either Rhodes or Zurich, 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 Zurich. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Rhodes. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zurich. 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 Zurich?

Rhodes 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.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rhodes. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Rhodes. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the beautiful destination of Zurich. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rhodes and Zurich, we can see that Zurich is more expensive. And not only is Rhodes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rhodes would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rhodes and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich than you might in Rhodes.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Rhodes Expensive? and Is Zurich Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Zurich?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes and Zurich, 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.