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

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Should you visit Budapest 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 Budapest and Rome can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

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. Many visitors also come here because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

How is Budapest different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Budapest or Rome better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Budapest and Rome.

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest or Rome better for Food?

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Rome a bit more than Budapest.

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

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Rome better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is comparable in Budapest and Rome.

Many people head to Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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.

Is Budapest or Rome better for Shopping?

If you're looking to go shopping, Budapest and Rome both offer plenty of spots.

Budapest is well-known for its shopping. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

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 Budapest or Rome better for Families?

You'll find kid-friendly activities in either Budapest or Rome.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

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 Budapest or Rome better for Couples?

Both Budapest and Rome are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience 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.

Is Budapest or Rome better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Budapest and Rome are fairly comparable places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other 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).

Is Budapest or Rome better for Students?

For students, both Budapest and Rome are fairly comparable places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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 Budapest or Rome better for Public Transit?

Budapest and Rome both offer public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Budapest can take you anywhere. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest or Rome a more walkable city?

Budapest and Rome are similar when it comes to walkability.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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.

Budapest and Rome: Pros and Cons

Budapest
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular for food
Rome
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Rome?

Both Budapest 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 Budapest.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Budapest is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Rome is 3-7 days.


  • How many days in Budapest or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Budapest 2-5 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Budapest or Rome?

Budapest is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Budapest or Rome?

Budapest is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Budapest or Rome?

Budapest is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Budapest or Rome?

The cultural city of Budapest offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Which city is cheaper, Rome or Budapest?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Budapest is $70, while the average daily cost in Rome is $138. 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 Budapest and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Budapest $38
    Rome $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Budapest $76
    Rome $142

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Budapest $8.25
    Rome $18
Typical Local Transportation prices in Budapest

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Budapest:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    $6.74
  • Metro Pass
    $3.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Budapest

Also for Budapest, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport Transfer Budapest: $32
  • Airport Transfer Budapest: $50
  • Airport and Hotel transfer: $31
  • Airport transfer with guided tour: $216
  • Arrival Private Transfer Budapest Airport BUD to Budapest City by Luxury Van: $93
  • Arrival Private Transfer Budapest Airport BUD to Budapest City in Business Car: $62
  • Arrival Private Transfer Budapest Airport BUD to Budapest City in Standard Car: $57
  • Budapest - Belgrade Transfer: $349
  • Budapest - Bratislava Transfer: $202
  • Budapest - Bratislava transfer: $180
  • Budapest - Brno (Brno - Budapest) private transfer with a comfortable car / van: $485
  • Budapest - Bük Transfer: $171

Typical Local Transportation prices in Rome

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $2.10
  • Train to the Airport
    $16
  • Taxi to Airport
    $47
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Private Transfer by Mercedes and private boat from Rome to Capri all included: $1,991
  • Private Transfer by Mercedes and private boat from Rome to Capri: $1,991
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Bologna (BLQ) Airport: $1,466
  • Transfer From Rome To Amalfi Coast Via Pompei: $1,365
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $1,291
  • Assisi & Orvieto, one day, private transfer: $1,244
  • Direct Transfer from your Hotel in ROME to your Hotel in LUCCA: $1,138
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $1,132
  • Private Transfer by luxury Mercedes and private boat from Rome to Capri: $1,120
  • Private Transfer from Rome to Florence: stops in Orvieto, Siena & Monteriggioni: $1,058
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $1,043
  • Private Transfer From Rome Apt To Positano: $1,023

Is it cheaper to fly into Budapest or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Budapest 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Budapest $17
    Rome $39
Typical Food prices in Budapest

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Budapest:


  • Lunch
    $3.29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Lángos (hungarian streetfood) cooking class: $19
  • Dinner & Cruise on the Danube in Budapest: $23
  • Traveling Spoon Hungarian Goulash Private Online Cooking Class: $27
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise and Piano Battle Show: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour / Local delights: $36
  • Private Budapest Food Tour with a Local Foodie: $37
  • Live from Hungarian Online Cooking class: $39
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour Night & The City Budapest: $47
  • Food Tour in Budapest: $50
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour of Trendy Budapest: $51
  • BBQ dinner and a Quiz Night - welcome shots (hungaricums) and 88 craft beers: $52
  • 2-Hours Strudel Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Central Budapest: $53

Typical Food prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $15
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    $3.14
  • Cafe e doce
    $4.21
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    $2.79
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    $33
  • Cheese and bread
    $11
  • Espresso
    $2.10
  • Dinner
    $61

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
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Budapest $18
    Rome $31
Typical Entertainment prices in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance to the Baths for Two
    $6.61

Tours and Activities in Budapest

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Budapest.

  • Budapest Private Tour: Buda Castle District Exploration Game: $3.72
  • Discovering Explore the city's hot pools and heroes on an audio tour: $5.00
  • Private Budapest Ghost Tour: Haunted City Exploration Game: $5.65
  • Digital 100-Sights City Tour: $5.67
  • Urban Tour of the Outer viii district Budapest: $6.22
  • Guided Tour in Budapest Castle District: $6.22
  • The Legendary Vampires at the Castle's Court Audio Tour: $6.59
  • Alternative Street Tip Based Walking Tour of Budapest: $6.77
  • Aeropark Admission Ticket: $6.91
  • Budapest Downtown and Inner City E-Scooter Tour: $7.46
  • Skip the Line: Aeropark Aviation Museum Entrance Ticket: $8.01
  • Robert Capa Contemporary Photograhy Center Visit Ticket: $8.71

Typical Entertainment prices in Rome

Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)
    $73
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    $35
  • Roma Pass
    $32
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    $21
  • Segway Tour
    $79

Tours and Activities in Rome

Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day in 10 Iconic Sights, Luxury Car, Skip the line, Lunch, 100% Private: $785
  • 1 hour Little Ancient Tour of Rome by Mini Vintage Cabriolet with Cappuccino: $156
  • 10-Night Italy Tour: Rome, Florence, Venice and Sorrento: $1,661
  • 2 Days Full Train Tour in Florence and Venice: $1,358
  • 2 Hour Private Tour Rome by Night by Car with an English speaking driver: $299
  • 2 in 1 Entire Vatican Tour & Fast Track Colosseum Ticket: $144
  • 2-Day Best of Rome and Vatican - Luxury Private Tour: $964
  • 2-Day Rome Highlights and Tivoli Private Tour with Pick Up: $1,369
  • 2-Day Venice trip from Rome - private tour: $908
  • 2.5-Hour Private Rome Catacombs Family Tour: $333
  • 2.5-Hours Illuminated Rome by Night Private Walking Tour: $280
  • 3 Hours Rome E-Bike Tour with the entrance to the Baths of Caracalla: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Budapest $13
    Rome $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Budapest

Also in Budapest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $15
  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $15
  • Original Budapest Pub Crawl and VIP Club Entrance: $16
  • Ultimate Ruin Pub Crawl: $18
  • Generation Pub Crawl Budapest: $19
  • Ruin Pub Crawl - Your Keys to the Nightlife of Budapest: $21
  • Budapest Pub Crawl: $24
  • Pest side Pub Crawl - Unlimited drinks for an hour, discover hidden ruin pubs: $25
  • Re-opening Pub Crawls 2020 Summer-Autumn: $25
  • Budapest Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Access: $26
  • Epic Local Insider Pub Crawl in Budapest - Every weekend: $30
  • Party Cruise with Pub Crawl option: $37

Typical Alcohol prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $6.84
  • Pint of Beer
    $6.67
  • Beer
    $11

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

About these numbers

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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Budapest vs. Rome Travel Comparison

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