A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Thiva (Thebes) vs. Rhodes for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Rhodes can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a ancient, beautiful, and diverse island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Thiva (Thebes) and Rhodes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rhodes than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rhodes is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its big city activities. Rhodes is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. Also, Rhodes is famous for Rhodes Old Town. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Rhodes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rhodes and Thiva (Thebes). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

It's hard to distinguish whether Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes has a better nightlife scene.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

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

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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

Rhodes is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Rhodes

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

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable place. Some areas are more walkable than others.

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Rhodes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rhodes or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

In either Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rhodes than Thiva (Thebes) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 3-5 days is enough time in Rhodes.

Families should spend more time in Rhodes than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rhodes that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rhodes than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Rhodes 3-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

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.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). 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.

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.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Rhodes or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Rhodes is €135. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Rhodes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Rhodes 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Rhodes 116
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Rhodes

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes? 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 Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Rhodes


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Rhodes 48

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: $55
  • Airport Transfer - From/To Airport - From/To Rhodes: $53
  • Diagoras Airport: Private One-Way Transfer to/from Rhodes: $39
  • East Coast Bay to Bay Full-Day Boat Trip with Transfers: $61
  • From Rhodes To Lindos ! Private one way transfer : $188
  • From Lindos Round-Trip Bus Transfer with Free Time: $29
  • Lindos Roundtrip Transfer in Small Group aprx 4hrs Free Time: $24
  • Lindos comfortable Transfer with aprx 5hrs Free Time: $22
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Faliraki: $36
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos - Ixia: $24
  • One Way Private Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Rhodes town: $29
  • One Way Shuttle Transfer Rhodes Airport to / from Ialyssos-Ixia: $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Prices for flights to both Rhodes and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Rhodes 47

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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Rhodes 19

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: $5.55
  • Palace of the Grand Master Admission Ticket: $5.86
  • Escape Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Rhodes Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour: $7.06
  • Entrance Ticket for Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes: $7.18
  • Ancient Lindos Acropolis Regular Admission Ticket: $9.94
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Outdoor Scavenger Hunt and Tour of Rhodes Old Town: $11
  • Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Rhodes Medieval City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Rhodes Town: 45’ Semi-Submarine Cruise with Drinks Included: $13
  • The Palace of the Grand Master. Self-guided Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Rhodes 12

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 Thiva (Thebes) and Rhodes, 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Rhodes Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Rhodes?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Rhodes, 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.