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

Should you visit Ghent or Rome?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Rome. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Ghent and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Rome?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Ghent. Rome is bigger than Ghent, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is better known for its museums, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Ghent is more popular for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Ghent 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. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

The Colosseum

How is Ghent different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rome that are not to be missed. 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.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Rome is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Both Ghent and Rome are fantastic when it comes to partying.

People head to Ghent just to party. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

The nightlife in Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is a world-class destination for live music. However, Ghent is not a live music destination.

Rome is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Ghent is not a live music destination.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Ghent is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Rome?

Rome is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Rome is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rome is 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for Couples?

Ghent and Rome both very good destinations for a couple.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Ghent or Rome Better for Students?

Ghent and Rome are both fantastic destinations for students and younger travelers.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

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

Both Ghent and Rome offer fantastic public transit options.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Visitors in Rome can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Is Ghent or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Rome?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Ghent or Rome?

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.

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 Ghent or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Ghent. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Ghent or Rome?

The historic city of Ghent offers nightlife and food. 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.

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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Rome. Most visitors come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Rome because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ghent is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 17°C (63°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Rome. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ghent or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Rome. The autumn months attract visitors to Ghent because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

Ghent is cooler than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Rome. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Ghent in the winter. In the winter, Ghent is much colder than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ghent in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives less rain than Rome. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ghent or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Ghent for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Ghent is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 8°C (47°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Rome. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Ghent