A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Rome for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Antwerp or Rome?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Rome can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a youthful, vibrant, and authentic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Antwerp travel costs.

Rome

Rome is a fun-filled, popular, and ancient city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of Rome is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Rome travel costs.

Antwerp and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Antwerp, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Antwerp is known for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

The Colosseum

How is Antwerp different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rome and Antwerp. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Rome?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rome are among the most recognizable in the world. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Rome has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Antwerp has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Antwerp is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Rome?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rome and Antwerp.

The abundance of shops in Antwerp make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Is Antwerp or Rome More Beautiful?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Rome is one of the main draws. With its many beautiful landmarks and impressive architecture, this city has a lot of attractive places to visit. Don't miss Villa Borghese Park, Trastevere, Palazzo Madama, the Appian Way, and Piazza Navona.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rome is a very kid-friendly city. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Rome frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rome. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Is Antwerp or Rome Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Rome can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Antwerp or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Rome on foot is easy. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

Antwerp is a very walkable destination. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Rome?

Both Antwerp and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Antwerp. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

Couples should spend more time in Rome than Antwerp. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rome that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Antwerp 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 Rome.

One day in Antwerp or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antwerp or Rome?

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Antwerp or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the youthful destination of Antwerp. This port city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Rome?

The vibrant port city of Antwerp offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome than you might in Antwerp.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Rome, 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.

When is the best time to visit Antwerp or Rome?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antwerp or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Antwerp is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Rome. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Antwerp is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Rome. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Rome in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Rome. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Rome because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Antwerp can be very cold during winter. Antwerp is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Rome. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Rome in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Rome. The spring months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In the spring, Antwerp is much colder than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the spring, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Rome. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Antwerp