Which city is cheaper, Rome or Brussels?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Rome for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers
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Should you visit Brussels or Rome?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
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
Brussels is a cosmopolitan, multicultural, and historic 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.
Rome
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 this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.
How is Brussels different from Rome?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Brussels or Rome better for Museums and Historical Sights?
Both Brussels and Rome have interesting landmarks and museums for visitors.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rome on the map. 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 Brussels or Rome better for Food?
There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine in both Brussels and Rome.
With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. Other popular dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).
Many restaurants in Rome have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.
Is Brussels or Rome better for Nightlife?
Party-goers will usually choose Rome over Brussels.
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.
Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.
Is Brussels or Rome better for Shopping?
Shopping in 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.
Rome is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Brussels or Rome better for Families?
Both Brussels and Rome are 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.
Rome is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Brussels or Rome better for Couples?
Brussels and Rome both fun 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.
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.
Is Brussels or Rome better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Brussels and Rome are comparable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
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 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).
Is Brussels or Rome better for Students?
Brussels and Rome are comparable places to visit for students.
Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.
Rome is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.
Is Brussels or Rome better for Public Transit?
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.
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.
Is Brussels or Rome a more walkable city?
Brussels and Rome both are comparable when exploring on foot.
Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.
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 and Rome: Pros and Cons
Brussels
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Less popular for nightlife
Rome
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Good nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
Should I spend more time in Rome or Brussels?
How long in Brussels or Rome?
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 Brussels.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Brussels is 1-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Rome is 3-7 days.
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How many days in Brussels or Rome? Ideal Length of StayBrussels 1-5Rome 3-7
One day in Brussels or 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 around the area. One day is usually enough time for a trip here.
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.
A weekend in Brussels or Rome?
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 spend here. The entire area has lots to do.
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 around the area.
Five days in Brussels or Rome?
Brussels is a multicultural 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 here when traveling. Five days is often enough time to spend here.
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 area has lots to do.
A week in Brussels or Rome?
The multicultural 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.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBrussels €109Rome €131
The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €109, while the average daily cost in Rome is €131. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Brussels and Rome in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBrussels €58Rome €67
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBrussels €116Rome €134
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Brussels €13Rome €17
Typical Local Transportation prices in Brussels
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:
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Subway Pass€4.50
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Atomium train ticket (2)€8.00
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:
- Airport Transfer Charleroi To Bruges: $411
- Airport Transfer Charleroi To Brussels: $179
- Airport transfers from Brussels to Zaventem Brussels airport by luxury car: $85
- Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $522
- Brussels Airport Departure Transfer (Brussels Hotels to Brussels Airport): $81
- Brussels Airport Transfers : Brussels City to Airport BRU in Business Car: $79
- Brussels Airport Transfers : Brussels to Airport BRU in Luxury Van: $79
- Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-3pax: $60
- Brussels City all area to Brussels Airport BRU - Private Airport transfer 1-7pax: $60
- Brussels Departure Private Transfers from Brussels City to Brussels Airport BRU: $83
- Brussels Departure Private Transfers from Brussels City to Brussels Airport BRU: $87
- Brussels Private Transfer from Brussels city centre to Brussels Airport (BRU): $108
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)€2.00
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Train to the Airport€15
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Taxi to Airport€45
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Bicycle Rental (Full Day)€10
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:
- 59/5000 Transfer from Rome to Sorrento with stop in Pompeii: $622
- A Secret Way to the Sistine Chapel Private Tour-transfers included: $475
- Accessible Transportation in Rome Civitavecchia or Airport transfer: $162
- Airport Transfert Roma: $93
- Airport transfer: $100
- Airport transfer from hotel in Rome: $20
- All Rome in One Day Special Private Tour - Skip the Line, Guide, Lunch, Transfer: $588
- Ancient Ostia Ruins, private transfer: $637
- Ancient Ostia Ruins, private transfer: $597
- Assisi & Orvieto, one day, private transfer: $1,244
- Best Transfer Service Civitavecchia port - Rome (Town, FCO/CPO airport) and V.V.: $100
- Best of Rome in One Day: Colosseum, Vatican, Squares with Transfers and Lunch: $311
Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or 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.
Food
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Food Meals for one dayBrussels €31Rome €37
Typical Food prices in Brussels
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:
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Ice Cream & Macaroons€4.60
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Dessert (Turkish Delights)€4.75
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Cheese€5.60
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Olives and Snacks€6.98
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Waffle€3.00
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.
- Classic Belgian cooking class and lunch: $79
- Your Private Tailored Belgian Food Tour with a Local: $93
- Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $112
- Cooking Lesson and Gourmet Belgian-Inspired Meal with a Local in Brussels: $115
- Private Brussels Food Tour (walking lunch or dinner): $373
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)€14
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4 Ice Cream Sandwiches€2.99
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Cafe e doce€4.00
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Pizza (Fast Food)€2.65
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Sitdown Lunch (for Two)€32
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Cheese and bread€10
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Espresso€2.00
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Dinner€58
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.
- Tours from Home: Pizza Cooking Class with Italian Chefs: $15
- Interactive Cooking Experiences with Renowned Chefs All Over the World (in EST): $22
- Live from Tagliatelle & Chicken Fricassee Online Cooking Class: $23
- Virtual Cooking Class: Carbonara, Amatriciana, Pesto & "pasta al dente": $40
- Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $48
- Private Italian dinner in Rome with a selection of local wines: $51
- Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour Artisian Rome: $55
- Make Your Own Pizza Cooking Class & Dinner: $56
- 1h Pizza Crash Course with a Chef in Rome: $61
- 1-Hour Rome Pizza Cooking Class with Dinner: $61
- Ravioli and Meatballs Cooking Class: $61
- Pasta & Tiramisu Workshop with Dinner: $61
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Brussels €18Rome €29
Tours and Activities in Brussels
Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Brussels Autoworld Museum Entrance Ticket: $15
- Pick Up from your Hotel in Brussels to Departure point Brussels City Tours: $22
- Beer Tour: $27
- Brussels 2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience: $29
- Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Bike Tour: $34
- Private Tour with a Local: $40
- Kanal and Molenbeek Runnning Tour: $44
- Running Tour of the Historical Center: $44
- The Best Of Brussels Walking Tour: $54
- Belgian Chocolate Tasting Tour: $62
- Private Tour w/ Locals – Highlights & Hidden Gems: $66
- Artistic Bruges on a Private Tour with a local: $75
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)€69
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Coliseum Tickets (for Two)€33
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Roma Pass€30
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Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)€20
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Segway Tour€75
Tours and Activities in Rome
Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Ticket for Pantheon with Audioguide + City APP: $6.22
- A day as a citizen of ancient Rome - live virtual experience: $6.22
- 35-Minute Pantheon Audio Guide Tour: $9.64
- Tours from Home: Essential Rome, The Iconic Piazzas: $10
- Tours from Home: Colosseum & Gladiators: $10
- Ticket to Piazza Navona Undergrounds Stadium of Domitian: $11
- Ancient Rome Virtual Guided Tour (Times in EST): $11
- Self-guided Virtual Tour of Colosseum: The Highlights: $11
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian Guided Tour: $11
- Catacombs of Priscilla Guided Tour: $11
- Mamertime Prison Entrance Ticket with Multimedia Guide: $11
- Experience the Past Present Future of Video Games at Vigamus - The Video Game Museum of Rome: $12
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBrussels €10Rome €15
Typical Alcohol prices in Brussels
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:
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Bottle of Wine€10
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Beer€6.00
Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:
- Brussels Pub Crawl: $14
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€6.50
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Pint of Beer€6.34
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Beer€10
Sample the Local Flavors in Rome
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:
- From Food & Wine Tasting in a Medieval Cellar: $51
- E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $67
- Private Rome Food & Wine Tour with Aperitif on Private Roof Top Terrance: $100
- Wine Tour Experience from Rome factory Giglio: $123
- Lunch, Diner and wine tasting in a shaby chic italian restaurant in Rome: $135
- From Frascati 3-Hour Private Wine Tasting Tour: $147
- Wine Tasting in Frascati from Rome: $160
- Frascati 3-Hour Wine Tasting PrivateTour: $183
- Rome Countryside Vineyards and Wine Tasting - Private Tour: $185
- Rome Countryside Vineyards and Wine Tasting - Private Tour: $187
- Private 3.5-Hour Castelli Romani Wine Tasting Tour from Rome: $191
- Rome By Night & Wine Tasting: $195
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.
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