Which place is cheaper, Rome or Kuala Lumpur?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur 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.
Kuala Lumpur is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.
You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Kuala Lumpur. Rome is bigger than Kuala Lumpur, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is more touristy than Kuala Lumpur and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Kuala Lumpur is well known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rome and Kuala Lumpur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Kuala Lumpur or Rome.
Travelers visit Kuala Lumpur from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.
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.
Foodies will find both Kuala Lumpur and Rome both to be fantastic destinations.
Eat your way through Kuala Lumpur, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.
For foodies, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.
Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.
People head to Rome just to party. 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.
Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.
Rome is a world-class destination for live music. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.
Rome is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.
Kuala Lumpur is not a live music destination.
Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Kuala Lumpur and Rome.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi 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.
Both Kuala Lumpur and Rome are very good family-friendly destinations.
Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.
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.
Kuala Lumpur and Rome both very good destinations for a couple.
Kuala Lumpur makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.
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.
Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
Many backpackers frequent 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).
Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.
Both Kuala Lumpur and Rome are fantastic destinations for students.
Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for students. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.
Many students frequent Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.
Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Kuala Lumpur and Rome.
With a huge network, the transit system in Kuala Lumpur can get you around easily. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.
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.
Rome is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.
It's very easy to get around on foot in Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.
Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable city. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.
For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Rome Worth Visiting?.
Both Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.
Families should spend more time in Rome than Kuala Lumpur. 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 Kuala Lumpur. 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 Kuala Lumpur 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.
Kuala Lumpur is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.
In Rome, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this archeological city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.
Kuala Lumpur is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
Rome is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.
Kuala Lumpur is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.
In Rome, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this fun-filled big city offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.
The colorful city of Kuala Lumpur offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.
Rome is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Kuala Lumpur is $62, while the average daily cost in Rome is $184. 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 Kuala Lumpur and Rome in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Kuala Lumpur 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.
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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:
Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:
Prices for flights to both Rome and Kuala Lumpur 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.
For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:
For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and Rome is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur 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 Kuala Lumpur.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Rome Expensive?.
Rome has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur 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.
Rome has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kuala Lumpur experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.
Both Rome and Kuala Lumpur during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kuala Lumpur because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Rome because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Kuala Lumpur is generally a little warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 28°C (82°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kuala Lumpur. In the summer, Kuala Lumpur often gets less sunshine than Rome. Kuala Lumpur gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Kuala Lumpur gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kuala Lumpur and Rome. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kuala Lumpur year-round. Furthermore, 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.
Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kuala Lumpur averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).
Kuala Lumpur usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Kuala Lumpur gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.
Kuala Lumpur gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Rome. Kuala Lumpur gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Kuala Lumpur as well as Rome. Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In the winter, Kuala Lumpur is much warmer than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kuala Lumpur in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).
In the winter, Kuala Lumpur often gets more sunshine than Rome. Kuala Lumpur gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.
Kuala Lumpur receives a lot of rain in the winter. Kuala Lumpur usually gets more rain in January than Rome. Kuala Lumpur gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Rome and Kuala Lumpur are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kuala Lumpur throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In April, Kuala Lumpur is generally much warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Kuala Lumpur average around 28°C (82°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).
It's quite sunny in Rome. Kuala Lumpur usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during spring. Kuala Lumpur gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.
It's quite rainy in Kuala Lumpur. In April, Kuala Lumpur usually receives more rain than Rome. Kuala Lumpur gets 240 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Kuala Lumpur | Rome | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 27°C (81°F) | 239 mm (9.4 in) | 8°C (47°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
Feb | 28°C (82°F) | 200 mm (7.9 in) | 9°C (49°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Mar | 28°C (82°F) | 260 mm (10.2 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) |
Apr | 28°C (82°F) | 240 mm (9.4 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
May | 28°C (82°F) | 190 mm (7.5 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 42 mm (1.6 in) |
Jun | 28°C (82°F) | 160 mm (6.3 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 21 mm (0.8 in) |
Jul | 28°C (82°F) | 150 mm (5.9 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 19 mm (0.7 in) |
Aug | 28°C (82°F) | 160 mm (6.3 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
Sep | 27°C (81°F) | 200 mm (7.9 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) |
Oct | 27°C (81°F) | 280 mm (11 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
Nov | 27°C (81°F) | 290 mm (11.4 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 105 mm (4.1 in) |
Dec | 27°C (81°F) | 250 mm (9.8 in) | 9°C (49°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |