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

Should you visit Canberra or Rome?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Rome? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Canberra or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Canberra, 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 Canberra is known for its hiking. Rome is more touristy than Canberra 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. It is also home to The Colosseum. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

The Colosseum

How is Canberra different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rome are world-renowned. 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.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

Rome is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Canberra or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Rome is a must-see party destination. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its live music scene. However, Canberra is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Canberra is not a live music destination.

Is Canberra or Rome Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Rome?

Rome is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Rome Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Rome.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

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 Canberra or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. 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).

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

Rome is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Canberra or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Rome?

Both Canberra 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 Canberra. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Canberra. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Canberra or Rome?

Canberra 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 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.

Five days in Canberra or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Canberra. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

A week in Canberra or Rome?

The diverse city of Canberra offers nightlife and food. 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 Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Canberra and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Canberra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Canberra is in Pacific and Rome is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Canberra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Canberra 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 Canberra.

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

Which is Bigger, Canberra or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Rome?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Rome has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Canberra or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Canberra during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Canberra in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Canberra is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Canberra in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F)in July.

Canberra usually gets more rain in January than Romein July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Rome. Most visitors come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rome because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Canberra is generally around the same temperature as Romein October. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 17°C (63°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Canberra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Canberra usually receives more rain than Romein October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Canberra or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Rome. The winter months attract visitors to Canberra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

Canberra is a little warmer than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F)in January.

Canberra usually gets less rain in July than Romein January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Canberra or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Canberra is a little warmer than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Canberra in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F)in April.

In October, Canberra usually receives more rain than Romein April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Canberra