Which place is cheaper, Rome or Brussels?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Rome. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brussels travel costs.
Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of Rome is one of the main draws. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping. See Rome travel costs.
You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Brussels. Rome is bigger than Brussels, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is more popular for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Brussels 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. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.
The Colosseum
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rome and Brussels. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Rome is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.
Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rome that are not to be missed. 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.
Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.
Rome is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.
Eat your way through Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.
Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).
Rome is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.
Rome is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.
If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.
Rome is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.
Rome is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.
Brussels is not a live music destination.
Brussels is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.
Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.
Rome does not have a historic old town.
Shopping is a popular activity in both Rome and Brussels.
Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.
Known for shopping, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. 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.
Rome is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels 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.
Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.
Both Brussels and Rome are very good family-friendly destinations.
Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Rome is very family-friendly. 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.
Brussels and Rome both very good destinations for a couple.
Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.
Rome is a great city 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.
Rome is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Rome is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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).
Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.
Rome is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.
Rome is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.
Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.
You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brussels and Rome.
Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.
Public transit in Rome is top-notch. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.
Rome is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.
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.
Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.
For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Rome Worth Visiting?.
Both Brussels 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 Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.
Families should spend more time in Rome than Brussels. 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 Brussels. 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 Brussels 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.
Brussels is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.
The beautiful city of Rome offers museums and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
Brussels 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.
Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
Brussels is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.
Rome is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
The historic city of Brussels 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €165, while the average daily cost in Rome is €205. 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 Brussels and Rome in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Brussels 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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:
Prices for flights to both Rome and Brussels 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.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.
Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Brussels would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brussels 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 Brussels.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brussels Expensive? and Is Rome Expensive?.
Rome has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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.
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.
Both Rome and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rome because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
It's quite sunny in Rome. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Rome. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Rome and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rome this time of year.
Brussels is cooler than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).
In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Rome. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.
Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Rome. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).
Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Brussels usually receives less rain than Rome. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Rome in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Rome. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.
Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.
Brussels | Rome | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 3°C (38°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) | 8°C (47°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
Feb | 4°C (39°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) | 9°C (49°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Mar | 6°C (43°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) |
Apr | 10°C (49°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
May | 14°C (57°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 42 mm (1.6 in) |
Jun | 17°C (62°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 21 mm (0.8 in) |
Jul | 18°C (65°F) | 75 mm (3 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 19 mm (0.7 in) |
Aug | 18°C (65°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
Sep | 16°C (60°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) |
Oct | 12°C (54°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
Nov | 7°C (45°F) | 76 mm (3 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 105 mm (4.1 in) |
Dec | 4°C (40°F) | 76 mm (3 in) | 9°C (49°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |