A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Catania vs. Rome for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

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

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Catania and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Catania, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Catania is known for its beaches, historical sights, and hiking. Rome is more touristy than Catania 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. It is also home to The Colosseum. Catania is popular for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna.

The Colosseum

How is Catania different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Catania. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

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

Both Catania and Rome offer amazing local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rome is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Rome is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Catania has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is very popular for its live music scene. However, Catania is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Catania is not a live music destination.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Beaches?

Catania is a port city with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Catania. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Catania or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Catania is a port city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Catania offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Hiking?

Catania is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Rome?

Rome is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Rome make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Catania has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Families?

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

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rome. 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 Catania or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

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

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is very popular for backpackers. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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).

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Catania or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is very popular for students. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Catania is a great port city to visit as a student. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

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

Rome is very popular for its public transit. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Rome has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Catania offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

Is Catania or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Rome on foot. 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.

Catania is a very walkable destination. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Catania?

How long in Catania or Rome?

Both Catania 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 Catania. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Catania, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Couples should spend more time in Rome than Catania. 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 Catania 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 Catania or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Catania. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Rome?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Catania or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Catania. This port city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Rome?

The youthful port city of Catania offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Catania or Rome?

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

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.

Should I visit Catania or Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Rome. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Catania is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Catania in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Rome. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Catania as well as Rome. Many visitors come to Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Catania is generally a little warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 19°C (67°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Catania receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Rome. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rome because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Catania is a little warmer than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Rome during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives less rain than Rome. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Catania during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In the spring, Catania is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Catania in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Catania. In the spring, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Catania