A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Rome for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cesis or Rome?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Rome can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a quaint, small, and authentic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Rome

Rome is a ancient, archeological, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of Rome is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food. See Rome travel costs.

Cesis and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in Cesis or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome. Although Cesis and Rome are both popular with visitors, Rome has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rome is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Cesis 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. Cesis is popular for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Cesis different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Rome Better for Music?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its live music scene. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis is not a live music destination.


Is Cesis or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Rome

Cesis is a town with a few options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or Rome Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Rome

Cesis is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cesis. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Rome?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cesis or Rome More Beautiful?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and 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.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Is Cesis or Rome Better for Families?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rome is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Rome Better for Couples?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.


Is Cesis or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or Rome Better for Students?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

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.

Cesis is not popular with students.

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

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Rome has a great public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.


Is Cesis or Rome a more walkable city?

Cesis
Rome

Rome is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Rome?

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

Families should spend more time in Rome than Cesis. 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 Cesis. 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 Cesis 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.


  • How many days in Cesis or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Cesis or Rome?

Cesis is a small town where visitors enjoy the . Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Rome?

Cesis 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Cesis or Rome?

Cesis is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Cesis or Rome?

Because Cesis is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or Cesis?

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 Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Rome is €207. 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 Cesis and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis €47
    Rome €90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis €94
    Rome €180
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Cesis 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.

Hotels in Cesis


Hotels in Rome


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cesis Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis €30
    Rome €21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    €2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    €15
  • Taxi to Airport
    €45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    €10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • “Skip the Taxi Line : Private FCO ↔ Rome Transfer with Pro Driver”: $51
  • Airport Transfer from Fiumicino to Rome City (or viceversa): $123
  • Airport Transfer: Ciampino Airport CIA to Rome by Business Car: $94
  • Airport Transfer: Rome to Ciampino Airport CIA by Business Car: $94
  • Airport Transfer: Rome to Ciampino Airport CIA by Luxury Van: $102
  • Airport Transfers Rome Centre to and from Fiumicino and Ciampino: $63
  • Airport to Rome Private Transfer: $240
  • Airport transfer from (FCO) to Port or viceversa: $246
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Rome Train Station to Rome City: $56
  • Arrival Transfer: Fiumicino Airport FCO to Rome by Business Car: $114
  • Arrival Transfer: Fiumicino Airport FCO to Rome by Luxury Car: $149
  • Bus Transfer from Civitavecchia Cruise Port to Rome Airport: $52

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Cesis 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
    Cesis €71
    Rome €84
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

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


  • Lunch in town for two
    €6.67

Typical Food Prices in Rome

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


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    €14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    €2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    €4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    €2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    €32
  • Cheese and bread
    €10
  • Espresso
    €2.00
  • Dinner
    €58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.

  • Pizzas and Piazzas: A Self-Guided Walk of Rome’s Culinary Culture: $20
  • Hard Rock Cafe Rome with Set Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Rome Pizza & Gelato Class with Wine by Cooking Italy: $40
  • Rome Pasta & Tiramisu Making Class & Fine Wine by Cooking Italy: $40
  • Rome Small Group Gnocchi and Tiramisu Cooking Class: $43
  • Rome Testaccio Market Food Tour - Eat Like a Local: $45
  • Rome Pizza Making Class for Families in Trastevere: $45
  • Rome Early Morning Breakfast and Sightseeing Food Tour: $45
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Prosecco in Rome: $45
  • Milan Street Food Tour and City Guided Sightseeing: $45
  • Authentic Gnocchi Cooking Class in Rome - Piazza Navona: $46
  • Pesto and Pasta Cooking Class in Rome City Center: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis €16
    Rome €36

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)
    €69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    €33
  • Roma Pass
    €30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    €20
  • Segway Tour
    €75

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Rome Best Kept Secrets: Self-Guided City Tour: $3.42
  • Rome Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour: $3.42
  • Piazza del Popolo and Historical Sights Walking Tour in Rome: $4.00
  • Hidden Treasures — A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $4.56
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Rome: $4.56
  • Colosseum and Roman Forum Sightseeing Area Walking Tour: $4.57
  • Highlights of Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere Walking Tour: $4.57
  • Historical Walking Tour in Rome City Center with Hidden Gems: $4.57
  • Experience Rome Trevi Fountain with Ticket: $4.57
  • Audio guided tour of the historic center of Rome: $4.57
  • Tour of Rome to Visit the Most Iconic Monuments: $5.00
  • Rome:Pantheon Entry Ticket with Hosted Experience and Audio Guide: $5.37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis €17
    Rome €18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    €6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    €6.34
  • Beer
    €10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:

  • Unique Wine Tasting in Enoteca in Rome San Pietro Area: $32
  • Rome [4in1] Pasta Making_Tiramisù_Wine Tasting_Secret Cellar: $36
  • Winery Tour, Wine Tasting near Rome with Optional Lunch: $45
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience with Food Pairing: $46
  • Rome Premium Wine Tasting: 3, 4, 5 or 6 Wines with Expert Guide: $51
  • Experience Rome Exclusive Wine Tasting in City Center: $55
  • Vatican Wine Tasting Italian Wines e Food with a Sommelier: $56
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $63
  • Rome Nightlife Party Tour Monti Bar Crawl and Local Drinks: $65
  • Rome Night Tipsy Tour & Bar Crawl with Forbidden History: $67
  • Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $79
  • The greatest wine tour of Rome: $80


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In the summer, Cesis is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cesis in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In July, Cesis usually receives more rain than Rome. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Cesis during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cesis is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 7°C (45°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Rome in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Rome. Many travelers come to Cesis for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cesis. Cesis is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In January, Cesis usually receives less rain than Rome. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Rome in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Rome. Many visitors come to Cesis in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cesis is much colder than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cesis in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Cesis

Cesis Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)