Rhodes, with its mesmerizing blend of ancient history and Mediterranean charm, sits proudly among Greece’s most captivating islands. But before you pack those swimsuits and sunglasses, you’re probably wondering: will this dream destination drain your wallet?
Let’s dive into the real costs of a Rhodes vacation and discover how to enjoy this sun-soaked paradise without returning home to empty bank accounts.
Rhodes: The Middle Child of Greek Island Pricing
Rhodes strikes a comfortable balance in the price spectrum of Greek islands. It’s not as wallet-punishing as glamorous Mykonos or romantic Santorini, but it’s not quite as budget-friendly as larger Crete or party-focused Zante.
You might be relieved to know that the average visitor spends around €135 per day here. That’s manageable for most travelers, especially when you consider the treasure trove of experiences awaiting you.
The medieval Old Town alone—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is worth every euro. And while the Colossus of Rhodes is long gone, the legendary spirit of this ancient wonder still permeates the island.
Where to Rest Your Head: Accommodation Costs
Luxury Living (€150-€300/night)
For those who enjoy the finer things, Rhodes delivers with spectacular high-end options.
Imagine yourself lounging by an infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean at the Elysium Resort & Spa, where rooms range from €180-€300 nightly. Here, private beaches and gourmet dining create that pampered feeling we all secretly crave on vacation.
The Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas in Lindos offers another slice of paradise, starting around €200 per night. The thalasso spa treatments might just make you forget what century you’re in.
Mid-Range Comfort (€45-€150/night)
You don’t need to spend a fortune to sleep comfortably in Rhodes.
Mid-range hotels like Nafsika Hotel in Rhodes Town provide all the essentials—air conditioning (trust us, you’ll want this in summer), a refreshing pool, and a conveniently located bar for that sunset drink—starting at just €54 per night.
Golden Days in Afandou even dips down to €22 per night during certain seasons, offering a clean, comfortable base for your island adventures.
Budget Beds (€22-€50/night)
Backpackers and budget travelers, rejoice! Rhodes hasn’t forgotten you.
Stay Hostel Rhodes welcomes the social traveler with dormitory beds starting at €22. You’ll likely make new friends from around the world before you’ve even finished checking in.
El Greco offers private rooms from €39, proving that even in paradise, you can find a decent place to sleep without sacrificing your souvlaki budget.
Filling Your Belly: Food Costs
Fine Dining Experiences
When you’re ready to treat yourself, Rhodes offers excellent dining options that won’t require a second mortgage. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages around €45 total—not per person!
You’ll savor locally-caught seafood, traditional Greek specialties, and maybe some Rhodes wine while enjoying that legendary Mediterranean service attitude: relaxed but attentive.
Casual Dining Delights
Most meals won’t break the bank in Rhodes. An average meal at a standard restaurant runs about €15 per person—comparable to what you might spend at home for lunch.
These casual eateries often offer the most authentic Greek experiences, with family recipes passed down through generations and ingredients sourced from nearby farms and waters.
Street Food Savings
Our favorite budget hack: embrace Rhodes’ street food culture! A satisfying gyro wrap—packed with seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, and tangy tzatziki—often costs just €3-5.
Wash it down with a local beer for another €3.50, and you’ve got a delicious meal for under €10. You’ll spot locals lining up at the best souvlaki stands—always a good sign.
Getting Around: Transportation Costs
Public Bus Bargains
Rhodes has an excellent public bus network connecting all major destinations. You can travel between Rhodes Town and Lindos (about an hour’s journey) for approximately €5-7 each way.
The central bus station in Rhodes Town serves as the hub for routes to all the must-see spots: Anthony Quinn Bay, Seven Springs, Kallithea, and those gorgeous beaches you’ve been dreaming about.
Car Rental Considerations
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore hidden corners of the island at your own pace. Expect to pay €30-50 per day for a small economy car during high season.
Prices drop significantly in shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October), often to as little as €20 daily. Just remember that gas prices in Europe are higher than what Americans might be used to.
Taxi Fares
Taxis in Rhodes charge €1.19 per kilometer, with rates doubling between midnight and 5 am. You’ll pay a bit extra when traveling from the port (€1.08 surcharge) or airport (€2.60 surcharge).
Keep in mind that heavy luggage (over 10kg) costs an additional €0.40 to transport, and pre-arranging a taxi pickup adds €6.15 to your fare.
Creating Memories: Attractions and Activities
Historical Treasures
Many of Rhodes’ historical sites charge modest entrance fees, typically €6-12 per person. The Palace of the Grand Master in the Old Town (€8) offers an impressive glimpse into the island’s complex past.
The Acropolis of Lindos (€12) rewards visitors with both ancient ruins and breathtaking views. You might find yourself lingering here longer than expected, imagining life in ancient times while gazing out at the brilliant blue sea.
Beach Bliss
We love that most beaches in Rhodes are free to access! You’ll only pay if you want sunbeds and umbrellas, which typically run €8-15 for a set for the day.
Tsambika Beach charms visitors with its golden sands stretching alongside crystal-clear waters. Anthony Quinn Bay (named after the actor who fell in love with it during filming) offers spectacular snorkeling opportunities. Agathi Beach welcomes families with its shallow, calm waters.
Outdoor Adventures
Natural attractions like the Valley of the Butterflies have nominal entrance fees (around €5). You’ll be mesmerized by thousands of colorful butterflies clustering on tree trunks during summer months.
Seven Springs (Epta Piges) offers refreshing trails through shaded forests, perfect for escaping the midday heat. Kallithea Springs combines history with natural beauty in a restored Italian spa complex, where you can dip your toes in therapeutic waters for a small entrance fee.
Retail Therapy: Shopping Expenses
High-End Boutiques
If you’re looking to splurge, Rhodes Town’s Old Town hosts sophisticated boutiques selling designer clothing (€100-€500), luxury accessories (€50-€300), and handcrafted jewelry (€60-€400).
Shops like La Vita and Bella Rosa feature international brands alongside Greek designers creating Mediterranean-inspired pieces you won’t find at home.
Local Market Treasures
You’ll discover the authentic spirit of Rhodes in its local markets. Hand-painted ceramics (€10-€80), locally-crafted leather goods (€30-€150), and regional food products like honey, olive oil, and herbs (€5-€40) make perfect souvenirs.
Don’t be shy about haggling at these markets—it’s expected and part of the fun! With a friendly smile and a bit of negotiation, you might walk away with unique treasures at surprisingly reasonable prices.
Money-Saving Magic: Tips for Budget Travelers
Embrace Off-Season Magic
You’ll find the best value by visiting Rhodes in shoulder season. April, May, September, and October offer delightful weather, smaller crowds, and significantly lower prices.
Accommodation costs can drop by 30-50%, and you’ll enjoy attractions without the summer crowds. Plus, the more moderate temperatures make exploring comfortable—no melting on ancient stones under the August sun!
Eat Like a Local
The best culinary experiences in Rhodes often come from the most humble establishments. Follow locals to small, family-run tavernas hidden away from main tourist drags.
Not only will you save money (often 30-40% less than tourist-oriented restaurants), but you’ll also enjoy more authentic food. Look for places with Greek writing and Greek patrons—always a promising sign.
Master Public Transportation
The island’s bus system is your budget best friend. A weekly transportation budget of €40-60 using public buses will get you to most major attractions.
Download the bus schedules to your phone before your trip or grab a printed copy when you arrive. Buses run frequently during summer months, but service becomes less regular during off-season.
Is Rhodes Worth the Money?
After breaking down the costs, we can confidently say that Rhodes offers exceptional value for your travel budget. You’re getting ancient history, stunning beaches, and authentic Greek experiences at prices that won’t require a lottery win.
Unlike some other Mediterranean destinations, Rhodes maintains its character while catering to visitors at various budget levels. You can splurge where it matters to you and save elsewhere.
Whether you’re watching euros carefully or prepared to indulge, Rhodes rewards travelers with unforgettable experiences that justify every cent spent. From wandering the Street of Knights to watching the sunset over the Aegean with a local wine in hand, these memories will outlast any concerns about cost.
You’ll return home with stories to tell, photos to share, and perhaps a slight addiction to Greek yogurt with honey—at which point you’ll already be planning your return trip to this magnificent island.