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

Should you visit Lille or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lille or Rome, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lille

Lille is a fascinating, cultural, and culinary city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Lille and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Lille, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lille is known for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Lille and is known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Lille is popular for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

The Colosseum

How is Lille different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Both Lille and Rome offer first-rate local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lille is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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.

Is Lille or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Rome is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lille has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Is Lille or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is very popular for its live music scene. However, Lille is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Lille is not a live music destination.

Is Lille or Rome Better for its Old Town?

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

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Rome?

Both Lille and Rome are first-rate shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Lille make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

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.

Is Lille or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Rome is a very kid-friendly city. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for couples. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Lille or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is very popular for backpackers. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rome. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Lille is a good city to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Lille or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is very popular for students. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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

Students come from all over to stay in Lille. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

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

Rome is very popular for its public transit. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Rome has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Lille offers a very effecient public transportation network. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

Is Lille or Rome a more walkable city?

Lille and Rome both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Lille on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Lille?

How long in Lille or Rome?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lille. 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 Lille or Rome?

Lille 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.

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 Lille or Rome?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Lille. 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 Lille or Rome?

The historic city of Lille offers shopping and nightlife. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Lille. When comparing the sizes of Lille 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 Lille 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 Lille or Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Rome. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lille this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

In July, Lille usually receives more rain than Rome. Lille 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 Lille or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lille as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Lille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lille is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 12°C (54°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

Lille usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Lille 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 Lille or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lille in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lille can get quite cold in the winter. Lille is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

In January, Lille usually receives less rain than Rome. Lille 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 Lille or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Lille during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lille for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lille is much colder than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lille in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

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

Lille usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Lille 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 Lille