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

Should you visit Nagano 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 Nagano 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.

Nagano

Nagano is a historic, traditional, and alpine 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. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Nagano and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagano or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Nagano, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nagano is known for its skiing, resorts, historical sights, and hiking. Rome is more touristy than Nagano 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 home to The Colosseum. Nagano is popular for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

The Colosseum

How is Nagano different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Rome is not a skiing destination.

Nagano is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Rome is not a skiing destination.

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

Rome is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rome are world-renowned. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

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

Rome is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in Nagano is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Nagano offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its live music scene. However, Nagano is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Nagano is not a live music destination.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Nagano offers a nice historic old town area. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Hiking?

Nagano is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagano or Rome?

Rome is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Many visitors go to Nagano to go shopping. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Families?

Both Nagano and Rome are great to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nagano is very family-friendly. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

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 Nagano or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Nagano is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rome is extremely popular 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).

Plenty of backpackers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Nagano or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Nagano is a good city to visit for students. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

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

Rome is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Nagano has a few public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Is Nagano or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Rome is a very easy city to get around 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.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Nagano?

How long in Nagano or Rome?

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

Couples should spend more time in Rome than Nagano. 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 Nagano 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 Nagano or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nagano. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nagano or Rome?

Nagano is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagano or Rome?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Nagano. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagano or Rome?

The historic city of Nagano offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nagano or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Nagano. When comparing the sizes of Nagano 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 Nagano 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 Nagano or Rome in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nagano as well as Rome. The summer months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In the summer, Nagano is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagano in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the summer, Nagano often gets less sunshine than Rome. Nagano gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagano usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Nagano gets 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Nagano are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nagano this time of year. Also, 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, Nagano is generally around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in Nagano average around 16°C (60°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Nagano usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Nagano gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Nagano. In October, Nagano usually receives more rain than Rome. Nagano gets 227 mm (9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nagano or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Nagano during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nagano for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Nagano. Nagano is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagano averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Nagano. In the winter, Nagano often gets more sunshine than Rome. Nagano gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. Nagano usually gets more rain in January than Rome. Nagano gets 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagano or Rome in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagano and Rome. Many visitors come to Nagano 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, Nagano is cooler than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagano in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Nagano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during spring. Nagano gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nagano usually receives more rain than Rome. Nagano gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Nagano