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

Should you visit Rome or Chicago?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rome and Chicago 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.

Rome

Rome is a fun-filled, popular, and ancient 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a multicultural, edgey, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Rome and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Chicago?

Both Chicago and Rome have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Rome is very popular for its impressive beauty, while Chicago attracts visitors for its theatre productions, beaches, and christmas markets. Rome is more touristy than Chicago 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. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile.

How is Rome different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Rome or Chicago.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rome on the map. 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.

Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago 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 Chicago that are not to be missed. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Rome is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Rome and Chicago can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rome or Chicago has a better nightlife scene.

The nightlife in Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Chicago is a world class party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Rome or Chicago.

In Rome you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Chicago is known as a music capital around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a city with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Chicago. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Chicago?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Chicago and Rome.

Rome is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chicago. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Rome does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Rome does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Rome does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago is a nice place to see Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Rome does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Families?

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

Chicago is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Rome or Chicago Better for Couples?

Rome is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is renowned for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a very popular city to visit 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).

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Rome or Chicago Better for Students?

Rome and Chicago are amazing places to visit 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.

Chicago is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Rome and Chicago.

Visitors in Rome can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Is Rome or Chicago a more walkable city?

Rome is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Rome on foot is easy. 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.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Rome?

How long in Rome or Chicago?

In either Rome or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than Chicago because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Chicago 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 Rome or Chicago?

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Chicago. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Rome or Chicago?

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chicago 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.

Five days in Rome or Chicago?

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the cosmopolitan big city of Chicago. 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.

A week in Rome or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

The diverse city of Chicago offers food and shopping. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rome and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Rome much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rome is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, 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 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Rome Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rome or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Rome. When comparing the sizes of Rome and Chicago, 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 Rome or Chicago?

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 Rome or Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Rome in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Rome is around the same temperature as Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago during summer. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In July, Rome usually receives less rain than Chicago. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rome or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Rome during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rome 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 Chicago because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Rome is a little warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rome in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Chicago. The winter months attract visitors to Rome because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chicago in the winter. In January, Rome is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 8°C (47°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago during winter. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rome usually receives more rain than Chicago. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rome or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rome as well as Chicago. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Rome this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Rome is a little warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In the spring, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicago. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Rome usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Rome