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

Should you visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a ancient, charming, and character-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Edinburgh and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to the Edinburgh Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Edinburgh, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Edinburgh is known for its theatre productions, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Edinburgh is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Rome 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.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Edinburgh different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh
Rome

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Edinburgh are world-renowned. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Rome Better for Theater?

Edinburgh
Rome

Edinburgh is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Rome is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Rome is not a theatre destination.

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

Edinburgh
Rome

Rome is terrific for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh
Rome

Rome is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.


Is Edinburgh or Rome Better for Music?

Edinburgh
Rome

It can be fun to see live music in either Edinburgh and Rome.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

In Rome you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Is Edinburgh or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh
Rome

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Rome?

Edinburgh
Rome

Rome is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Edinburgh 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.


Is Edinburgh or Rome Better for Families?

Edinburgh
Rome

Both Edinburgh and Rome are great to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Rome Better for Couples?

Edinburgh
Rome

Both Edinburgh and Rome are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh
Rome

Edinburgh and Rome are both world-class destinations for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

Rome is a very popular city to visit 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).


Is Edinburgh or Rome Better for Students?

Edinburgh
Rome

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

Many students visit Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Edinburgh
Rome

Rome is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Rome a more walkable city?

Edinburgh
Rome

Edinburgh and Rome are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk 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.


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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Rome?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Couples should spend more time in Rome than Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Edinburgh 2-5 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Edinburgh or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Edinburgh. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

People visit Rome because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Rome?

Edinburgh is a fun place to experience. 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 do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Rome because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Edinburgh. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

People visit Rome because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Edinburgh or Rome?

The character-filled city of Edinburgh offers museums and theater. 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 popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or Edinburgh?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Edinburgh is £142, while the average daily cost in Rome is £143. 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 Edinburgh and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Edinburgh £74
    Rome £74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Edinburgh £148
    Rome £148
Compare Hotels in Edinburgh and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh


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: Edinburgh Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Edinburgh £17
    Rome £18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Edinburgh

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


  • Local Bus
    £3.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edinburgh

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

  • Airport Transfer to/from Edinburgh City, St'Andrews etc.: $316
  • Airport Transfer: Airport EDI to Edinburgh by Business Car: $137
  • Airport Transfer: Airport EDI to Edinburgh by Luxury Van: $159
  • Arrival Private Transfer Edinburgh Airport EDI to Edinburgh by Business Car: $99
  • Central Edinburgh Hotels to Edinburgh Airport Transfers 1-3: $263
  • Departure Transfer - Edinburgh City to Edinburgh Airport: $82
  • Departure Transfer: Edinburgh to Airport EDI by Luxury Van: $159
  • Edinburgh Accommodation to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Edinburgh Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Edinburgh Accommodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $120
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI): Private Transfer to Edinburgh: $230
  • Edinburgh Airport EDI to Edinburgh Accommodation Arrival Transfer: $60

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    £1.69
  • Train to the Airport
    £13
  • Taxi to Airport
    £38
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    £8.43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • private transfer from Rome to the Port of Civitavecchia Cruis terminal: $110
  • Welcome in airport Transfer with welcome box: $90
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $718
  • Van transfer service from / to airports in Rome: $133
  • VIP Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Rome or Vice Versa: $52
  • VIP Experience Private Transfer from the Civitavecchia Port to Rome: $149
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome HTL-APT (FCO): $88
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome HTL-APT (CIA): $61
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome APT-HTL (CIA): $61
  • Transfers from all Airports to ancient city of Rome: $64
  • Transfers from Fiumicino airport: $77
  • Transfers Civitavecchia Port: $222

Is it cheaper to fly into Edinburgh or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Edinburgh 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
    Edinburgh £39
    Rome £40
Typical Food Prices in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Breakfast
    £8.50
  • Dinner at Filling Station
    £10
  • Lunch for Two
    £15
  • Sandwich
    £1.85
  • Cheese & bread
    £7.23
  • Thai Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    £25
  • 2 Coffees and Scones
    £5.80
  • Turkish Delight
    £1.40
  • Soup at the Pub
    £5.90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Edinburgh

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $32
  • Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $34
  • Edinburgh Fest Food Tour: $52
  • Edinburgh Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $90
  • Scottish Dinner and Folk Music Experience: $90
  • Food Tour with drinks: $110
  • Edinburgh Food Tour with Drinks: $112
  • 'Scotland meets Sardinia' - 8-course Dinner in Leith, Edinburgh: $114
  • 3-Hour Guided Secret Food Tour: $119
  • A Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour. Includes All Food & Drinks: $123
  • Taste Of Edinburgh Food Tour With All Food & Drinks Included: $125
  • Edinburgh Traditional Food Tour: $125

Typical Food Prices in Rome

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


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    £12
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    £2.52
  • Cafe e doce
    £3.37
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    £2.23
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    £27
  • Cheese and bread
    £8.43
  • Espresso
    £1.69
  • Dinner
    £49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

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

  • Dinner in Carbonara,Amatriciana,Cacio&Pepe e wine tasting : $35
  • Tasty Trionfale Farmers Market Food Tour and Local Wines Tasting: $39
  • Vatican Street Food Tour and Wine Experience with Local Guide: $43
  • Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43
  • Tiber River Urban Rafting Tour with Roman Pizza: $44
  • Pub Crawl and Ultimate Party with Open Bar and Pizza: $44
  • Pasta Making with Wine Tasting and Dinner in Frascati: $46
  • Piazza Navona Gnocchi Cooking Class: $49
  • Castel Gandolfo Kayak & Swimming Lake Tour with Pizza: $49
  • Tasty Rome Street Food Tour around Campo de' Fiori Market & Jewish Ghetto: $50
  • Roman Street Food Tour around the Jewish Ghetto with Local Guide: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Edinburgh £20
    Rome £30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Edinburgh

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Edinburgh's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Show Tickets
    £32
  • Movie Tickets for Two
    £12
  • Donation for Storytellers
    £6.00

Tours and Activities in Edinburgh

For Edinburgh, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.81
  • App self-guided: Tour Edinburgh in Scotland: $4.35
  • Audio Tour Royal Mile: from the Castle to "The Tron Kirk": $5.43
  • Edinbourgh, Royal mile: walking tour with audio guide: $5.44
  • Self Guided Royal mile Audio Tour in Edinburgh: $5.53
  • Edinburgh Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $5.63
  • Edinburgh Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $5.66
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.52
  • Edinburgh Center/Royal Mile: One Day Audio Tour Experience: $6.53
  • Edinburgh Stand Up Comedy Ticket Show in Scotland: $6.56
  • Audio Tour through History of Crime: $7.00

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)
    £58
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    £28
  • Roma Pass
    £25
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    £17
  • Segway Tour
    £63

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $83
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $40
  • Colosseum & Imperial Rome Afternoon Tour : $77
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $138
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $198
  • Doria Pamphilj Gallery Entry Ticket : $39
  • Exclusive Arena Colosseum Tour and Ancient Rome access: $219
  • Exclusive Private Golf Cart Tours Rome : $172
  • Kids and Families Fun & Educational Skip-the-line Colosseum & Roman Forums Tour: $297
  • Official Rome Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $26
  • Palatine Hill and Colosseum Tour in Rome: $109
  • Pantheon skip-the-line tickets : $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Edinburgh £15
    Rome £15
Typical Alcohol Prices in Edinburgh

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Edinburgh from other travelers:


  • Beer & Wine
    £14
  • Half Pint at Tollbooth Tavern
    £1.65

Sample the Local Flavors in Edinburgh

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

  • Pub Crawl with Free Shots & Discounts: $12
  • Edinburgh Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry: $19
  • Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery: $26
  • Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour with "Real-Actors": $26
  • The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour: $26
  • Tranent: Glenkinchie Whisky Distillery Tour and Tasting: $27
  • Haggis paired with whisky & gins in 56 North distillery!: $31
  • Lind & Lime Gin Distillery Tour & Tasting: $32
  • Pub Crawl 7 Bars with 6 Shots: $32
  • Whisky Tasting and Tales at Summerhall Distillery: $32
  • 5 Hours Edinburgh Halloween Bar Crawl: $33
  • Visit a Working South Loch Gin Distillery: $33

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    £5.48
  • Pint of Beer
    £5.34
  • Beer
    £8.43

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

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

  • Cabaret and Burlesque Show Entry Ticket: $33
  • Trastevere Wine Tasting with Food Pairing and Gelato: $49
  • Rome's Ultimate Party aka the Spanish Steps Pub Crawl: $53
  • Roman Night Life and Burlesque Show Tour: $54
  • Guided Wine Tasting Experience in a Roman Vineyard: $54
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $60
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $61
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience and Vineyards Guided Tour : $65
  • EAT AND DRINK LIKE A LOCAL - Wine Tasting in Trastevere w/ Gelato: $66
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $70
  • Rome by Night-Ebike tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $71
  • Small Group Rome Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $76


When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Rome?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In the summer, Edinburgh is much colder than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Rome. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Edinburgh 14°C (58°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Edinburgh or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Rome. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Rome. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Edinburgh 10°C (49°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Edinburgh or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 Edinburgh. Edinburgh is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Rome. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Edinburgh 3°C (38°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Edinburgh or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Edinburgh is much colder than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Rome. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Edinburgh 7°C (45°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Edinburgh

Edinburgh Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)