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

Should you visit Basel or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel or Rome, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Basel

Basel is a historic, cultural, and museum-filled city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Basel and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Basel, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Basel is known for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Basel 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. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town.

The Colosseum

How is Basel different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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

Rome is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rome is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Rome just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Basel or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a live music destination.

Is Basel or Rome Better for its Old Town?

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

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Rome?

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

The abundance of shops in Rome make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Is Basel or Rome Better for Families?

Basel and Rome are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rome. 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.

Is Basel or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for couples. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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).

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Basel or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is a world-class destination for students. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Rome is a great destination for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Students come from all over to stay in Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

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

Rome is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Rome can get you around easily. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

The public transit in Basel can get you to most places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Basel or Rome a more walkable city?

Basel and Rome both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Rome. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Basel?

How long in Basel or Rome?

Both Basel 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 Basel. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Basel, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Basel. 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 Basel. 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 Basel 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 Basel or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Basel. 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.

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Rome?

Basel is a fun place to experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Basel. This 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 fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Basel or Rome?

The easily accessible city of Basel 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.

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Basel or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Rome. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Basel is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Basel in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Rome. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Basel for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Basel is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 13°C (56°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets less sunshine than Rome. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Basel in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Basel can get quite cold in the winter. Basel is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Basel usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rome. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Basel for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Basel is cooler than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Basel in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Basel often gets less sunshine than Rome. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Basel