A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Rome for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a beautiful, spectacular, and relaxing national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Lake District National Park and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Lake District National Park or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome. Although Lake District National Park and Rome are popular destinations, Rome has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rome is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Rome is more touristy than Lake District National Park 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. It is also well known for The Colosseum. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Lake District National Park different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Music?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Around Lake District National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Both Lake District National Park and Rome are very good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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.


Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Lake District National Park and Rome both very good destinations for a couple.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Lake District National Park and Rome are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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).

Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.


Is Lake District National Park or Rome Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Rome can get you around easily. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Rome a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Both Lake District National Park and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Rome has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rome than Lake District National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park. 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 Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day 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.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Lake District National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Rome for a weekend. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the unique destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Many people spend five days here. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Lake District National Park or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful national park of Lake District National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Rome, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. One week is often enough time to do most activities. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Rome is £145. 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 Lake District National Park and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Rome £76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Rome £152
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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: Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Rome £18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    £1.71
  • Train to the Airport
    £13
  • Taxi to Airport
    £39
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    £8.56

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: $109
  • private transfer from Rome to Fiumicino airport: $55
  • Welcome Private Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Hotel in Rome: $109
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $710
  • Van transfer service from / to airports in Rome: $131
  • VIP Experience Private Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Rome: $76
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome APT-HTL (CIA): $61
  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,551
  • Transfers from all Airports to ancient city of Rome: $63
  • Transfers from Fiumicino airport: $76
  • Transfers From Fiumicino to Terracina: $154
  • Transfers Ciampino airport To Rome: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Rome £41

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
    £2.56
  • Cafe e doce
    £3.42
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    £2.27
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    £27
  • Cheese and bread
    £8.56
  • Espresso
    £1.71
  • Dinner
    £50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

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

  • Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $16
  • Eat Pasta in Rome, Testaccio - Self-Guided Walking Food Tour: $17
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Vatican Street Food Tour around the Biggest Fresh Market in Rome: $32
  • Roman Master Chef Cooking Class with Wine: $37
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
  • Tasty Trionfale Farmers Market Food Tour and Local Wines Tasting: $38
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
  • Painting and Pizza Party in Rome: $43
  • Pub Crawl and Ultimate Party with Open Bar and Pizza: $43
  • Tiber River Urban Rafting Tour with Roman Pizza: $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Rome £31

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

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)
    £59
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    £28
  • Roma Pass
    £26
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    £17
  • Segway Tour
    £64

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour: $89
  • Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour with Circus Maximus and Forums: $16
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $97
  • Doria Pamphilj Gallery Entry Ticket : $38
  • Electric - Bike 3 hour Tour : $56
  • Electric Bike Tour of City Centre with Gelato Highlights of Rome: $75
  • Haunted Rome Walking Tour : $233
  • Hidden Gems & Rome Catacomb Semi Private Tour 8 People Max. : $98
  • Palatine Hill and Colosseum Tour in Rome: $86
  • Premium Rome Walking Tour: from Colosseum to the Orange Gardens: $295
  • Private Tour - Capuchin Crypt and Hidden Gems of Rome: $285
  • Private Tour in Ferrari with Driver in Rome: $273

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Rome £16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    £5.56
  • Pint of Beer
    £5.42
  • Beer
    £8.56

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

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

  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Vatican Street Food and Wine Tour with Farmers Market: $38
  • The Best Wine Tasting in Trastevere with food pairing and Gelato: $49
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $53
  • Roman Night Life and Burlesque Show Tour: $54
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
  • Agricultural Brewery Tour in the Roman Countryside: $55
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $60
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $68
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $69
  • Rome by Night-Ebike tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $70
  • Taste of Tuscany: Food & Wine tour with Florentine Steak: $74


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

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rome because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Rome. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Rome. The autumn months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is much colder than Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Rome. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Rome. The cuisine are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lake District National Park in the winter. In January, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Rome. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Rome. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Rome. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)