Which place is cheaper, Rome or Bath?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Bath 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 Bath and Rome can help you decide which place is right for you.
Bath
Bath is a architectural, charming, and historical spa town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Rome
Rome is a fun-filled, popular, and ancient city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Bath and Rome: Pros and Cons
Bath
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Historic Roman Baths
- Less popular for food
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less popular with backpackers
- Public transit not as usable
Rome
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Colosseum
Is there more to do in Bath or Rome?
You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Bath. Rome is bigger than Bath, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bath is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Bath and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Bath is well known for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums.
The Colosseum
How is Bath different from Rome?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rome and Bath. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bath or Rome?
Bath
Rome
Spend time exploring the amazing sights and museums in either Bath or Rome.
Travelers visit Bath from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.
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.
Is the Food Better in Bath or Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
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.
Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bath. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Nightlife?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.
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.
Bath has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Music?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Bath is not a live music destination.
Rome is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.
Bath is not a live music destination.
Is Bath or Rome Better for its Old Town?
Bath
Rome
Bath is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.
Bath is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.
Rome does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Bath or Rome?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rome. 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.
Bath is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Families?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
Rome is a very family-friendly destination. 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.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bath. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Couples?
Bath
Rome
Bath is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.
Bath is a great spa town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.
Rome is a great spa town if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
Many backpackers frequent 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 Bath. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Students?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.
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.
Bath is a great spa town to visit as a student. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.
Is Bath or Rome Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bath
Rome
Rome is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.
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.
You'll find some public transit in Bath, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.
Is Bath or Rome a more walkable city?
Bath
Rome
Bath and Rome are amazing when it comes to walkability.
It's very easy to get around on foot in Bath. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.
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.
For even more information, also check out Is Bath Worth Visiting? and Is Rome Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Rome or Bath?
How long in Bath or Rome?
Both Bath 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 Bath. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bath, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.
Families should spend more time in Rome than Bath. 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.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Bath 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.
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How many days in Bath or Rome? Ideal Length of StayBath 1-3Rome 3-7
One day in Bath or Rome?
Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bath. 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.
Rome is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.
A weekend in Bath or Rome?
Bath is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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.
Rome is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
Five days in Bath or Rome?
You'll find museums and nightlife around the architectural destination of Bath. This spa town 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 popular big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.
A week in Bath or Rome?
The architectural spa town of Bath 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.
Rome is a ancient city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBath £141Rome £145
The average daily cost (per person) in Bath is £141, while the average daily cost in Rome is £145. 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 Bath and Rome in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBath £79Rome £76
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBath £158Rome £152
Compare Hotels in Bath and Rome
Looking for a hotel in Bath or Rome? 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.
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: Bath Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bath £26Rome £18
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath
Also for Bath, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $161
- Bath to Heathrow Airport private airport transfer: $291
- Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:
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Metro Ride (for Two)£1.71
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Train to the Airport£13
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Taxi to Airport£39
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Bicycle Rental (Full Day)£8.56
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:
- private transfer from Rome to Fiumicino airport: $55
- Welcome in airport Transfer with welcome box: $89
- Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $706
- Van transfer service from / to airports in Rome: $131
- VIP Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Rome or Vice Versa: $51
- VIP Experience Private Transfer from the Civitavecchia Port to Rome: $191
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome HTL-APT (FCO): $160
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome HTL-APT (CIA): $61
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome APT-HTL (CIA): $61
- Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,535
- Transfers from Airports to Rome city or Rome city to Airports: $63
- Transfers From Fiumicino to Terracina: $154
Is it cheaper to fly into Bath or Rome?
Prices for flights to both Rome and Bath 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
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Food Meals for one dayBath £43Rome £41
Typical Food Prices in Rome
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:
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Casual Lunch (for Two)£12
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4 Ice Cream Sandwiches£2.56
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Cafe e doce£3.42
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Pizza (Fast Food)£2.27
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Sitdown Lunch (for Two)£27
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Cheese and bread£8.56
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Espresso£1.71
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Dinner£50
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.
- Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $16
- Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $31
- Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
- Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
- Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
- Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $33
- Roman Master Chef Cooking Class with Wine: $36
- Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
- Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
- Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
- Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
- Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bath £17Rome £31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:
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Thermal Bath Spa£35
Tours and Activities in Bath
For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Bridgeton Walking Tour with an APP: $8.99
- Bath : 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour With An App: $8.99
- 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour in Bath with An App: $9.99
- Discover Bath's Timeless Charm: In-App Audio Tour: $11
- Bath Self-Guided Private Tour: $11
- Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
- Jane Austen Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour in Bath: $13
- Bath Private Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
- Bath & Stonehenge City Break from London - Self-Guided Tours: $13
- The Soul Spa: TRIPP Spa Virtual Reality Experience: $19
- Mystery Urban Adventure City Exploration Game: $19
- Bath Abbey Entry Ticket and Guided Tower Tour: $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Rome
Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)£59
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Coliseum Tickets (for Two)£28
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Roma Pass£26
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Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)£17
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Segway Tour£64
Tours and Activities in Rome
Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $82
- Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $39
- Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $195
- Colosseum Gladiator Arena Floor Complete Guided Tour : $206
- Colosseum Tour With Kids: $195
- Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour with Circus Maximus and Forums: $16
- Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill Professional Guided Tour: $161
- Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $184
- Complete St Peters Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt: $43
- Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $96
- Fast Track Colosseum with Arena and afternoon Vatican Museums Tour: $191
- Golf Cart Driving Tour: Rome City Highlights in 2.5 hrs: $104
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBath £14Rome £16
Sample the Local Flavors in Bath
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:
- Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:
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Bottle of Wine£5.56
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Pint of Beer£5.42
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Beer£8.56
Sample the Local Flavors in Rome
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:
- Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
- Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $32
- Vatican Food and Wine Tasting Tour next to the Sistine Chapel: $32
- Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
- Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $43
- Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
- Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
- Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
- Frascati Wine Tasting Experience & Vineyards Tour : $61
- Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $68
- E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68
- Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $71
When comparing the travel costs between Bath and Rome, we can see that Rome 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 Bath Expensive? and Is Rome Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bath or Rome?
Rome has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Bath. When comparing the sizes of Bath 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.