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

Should you visit Paris or Rome?

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

Should I visit Paris or Rome? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Paris and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in Paris or Rome?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paris than Rome, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Rome is well 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.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris
Rome

Spend time exploring the terrific sights and museums in either Paris or Rome.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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.


Is Paris or Rome Better for Theater?

Paris
Rome

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Rome is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Rome is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris
Rome

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Rome.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Rome has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Paris
Rome

The vibe at night is terrific in both Paris and Rome.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Rome is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Paris or Rome Better for Music?

Paris
Rome

Paris and Rome are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Rome?

Paris
Rome

If you're looking to go shopping, Paris and Rome both offer plenty of terrific spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Christmas?

Paris
Rome

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Rome does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Rome does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Paris or Rome Better for Families?

Paris
Rome

Paris is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Rome is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Paris or Rome Better for Couples?

Paris
Rome

Paris is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Paris is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris
Rome

For backpackers, both Paris and Rome are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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).


Is Paris or Rome Better for Students?

Paris
Rome

For students, both Paris and Rome are terrific places to visit.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

Paris
Rome

Paris and Rome both offer terrific public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Rome has a great public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Is Paris or Rome a more walkable city?

Paris
Rome

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

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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Paris?

How long in Paris or Rome?

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

Families should spend more time in Paris than Rome. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Rome. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Paris 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 Paris or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paris 3-7 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Paris or Rome?

Paris is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Rome, many people enjoy the live music and food that this bustling big city offers. 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 Paris or Rome?

Paris is a fun place to experience. 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.

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 Paris or Rome?

Paris is a bustling 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.

Rome is a fun place to experience. In Rome, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Paris or Rome?

Paris is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Rome, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this bustling big city offers. 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or Paris?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paris is €232, while the average daily cost in Rome is €170. 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 Paris and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paris 151
    Rome 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paris 302
    Rome 178
Compare Hotels in Paris and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Paris 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 Paris


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: Paris Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paris 21
    Rome 21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    6.40
  • Train from Airport
    9.00
  • Metro tickets
    6.80
  • Train
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer : Paris to the Palace of Versailles Round-Trip : $43
  • La Defense Private Transfer to Airport or Central Paris: $22
  • Private Roundtrip Airport Transfer for 1 to 3 Persons in Paris: $195
  • Private Transfer from Paris to Charles de Gaulle Airport: $83
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $266
  • Airport Transfer Service Shuttle Disneyland Paris Taxi: $120
  • Airport Transfer: Paris City to Paris Airport CDG by Business Car: $95
  • Airport Transfer: Paris City to Paris Airport CDG by Luxury EQS: $142
  • Airport: Private transfer to/from Paris - Charles de Gaulle: $106
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport Charles de Gaulle OR Orly TO La Defense: $23
  • Arrival Transfer CDG or ORY Airport to Disneyland París by Van: $125
  • Arrival Transfer from Paris Airport CDG to Paris in Private Car: $89

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    15
  • Taxi to Airport
    45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Rome Airport: Round Trip Transfer to Venice Cruise Port: $3,995
  • Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): 1-Way Transfer To Trieste Port: $2,522
  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,522
  • Luxury Private Transfer Siena to Rome Fiumicino Airport: $968
  • Luxury private transfer Siena to Rome Ciampino airport: $931
  • Private luxury transfer Siena to Rome city center: $931
  • Private Transfer from Amalfi to Rome or viceversa: $761
  • From Sorrento: Private Transfer to Rome or Vice Versa: $729
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $702
  • Sorrento to Rome 1-Way Private Transfer: $660
  • Private Transfer from Naples to Rome or viceversa: $617
  • From Private Transfer to Naples or Vice Versa: $585

Is it cheaper to fly into Paris or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Paris 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
    Paris 41
    Rome 47
Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:


  • Ice Cream
    8.00
  • Breakfast
    7.00
  • Breakfast for 2
    30
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    86
  • Dinner
    57
  • Cheese
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 1h30 Cooking Activity in English: $22
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $43
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $56
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $57
  • Seine Cruise Departure from Pont Alexandre III with Dinner Included: $64
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $67
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $67
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $68
  • Eat, play, love Montmartre: 3H Walking Food Tour in Small group: $71
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $74
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise on Seine River and Saint-Martin Canal: $75

Typical Food Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    32
  • Cheese and bread
    10
  • Espresso
    2.00
  • Dinner
    58

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: $15
  • Eat Pasta in Rome, Testaccio - Self-Guided Walking Food Tour: $17
  • Tasty Trionfale Farmers Market Food Tour and Local Wines Tasting: $26
  • Hard Rock Cafe Rome with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Rome City Center Largest Farmers Market and Street Food Tour : $32
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $32
  • Vatican Street Food Tour around the Biggest Fresh Market in Rome: $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $32
  • Dinner in Carbonara,Amatriciana,Cacio&Pepe e wine tasting : $35
  • Cooking Class with Wine - Become a Roman Master Chef: $36
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paris 77
    Rome 36
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    18
  • Admission to Pantheon
    5.00
  • Catacombs (2)
    23

Tours and Activities in Paris

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.

  • Free Walking Tour of Marais: $2.13
  • Montmartre Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $3.19
  • Paris Without People - Sunrise Bike Tour: $5.08
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.32
  • Père-Lachaise Cemetery audio guide tour: $5.32
  • Self Guided Latin Quarter Audio Tour in Paris: $5.42
  • Paris Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.42
  • Self-Guided Tour - Père Lachaise Cemetery Audioguide, Paris: $5.42
  • Private Self Guided Walking Tour in Montmartre Paris: $5.46
  • Visit the Eiffel Tower at your own pace Self-guided audio tour: $5.87
  • Sainte Chapelle and Notre Dame Self Guided Audio Tours: $6.37
  • Coco Chanel's A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99

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)
    69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    33
  • Roma Pass
    30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    20
  • Segway Tour
    75

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Borghese Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket & Golf Cart Ride: $56
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $39
  • Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour: $80
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $195
  • Colosseum Arena Floor with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $74
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $195
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $185
  • Complete St Peters Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt: $43
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $95
  • Doria Pamphilj Gallery Entry Ticket : $43
  • Electric - Bike 3 hour Tour : $56
  • Exclusive Private Golf Cart Tours Rome : $216

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paris 24
    Rome 18
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $15
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $16
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $21
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $25
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $31
  • Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $33
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $38
  • Paris Nation wine tasting: $42
  • Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise & l'Atelier des lumières: $49
  • Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $49

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    6.34
  • Beer
    10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

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

  • Casella's Follies a Night of Live Music and Burlesque: $17
  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Vatican Food and Wine Tasting Tour next to the Sistine Chapel: $32
  • Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Roman Night Life and Burlesque Show Tour: $54
  • Guided Wine Tasting Experience in a Roman Vineyard: $54
  • Local Wine Tasting: $60
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $60
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $67
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Rome, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Rome much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rome would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rome 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Rome.

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


Which is Bigger, Paris or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Paris. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Rome in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paris as well as Rome. Many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Paris is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Rome. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paris 20°C (68°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rome because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Paris is cooler than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Rome. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paris 13°C (56°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Paris during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

The weather in Paris can be very cold. In the winter, Paris is much colder than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Rome. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paris 5°C (40°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Rome. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Paris is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 11°C (52°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rome. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paris 11°C (52°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Paris

Paris Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)