A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Rome vs. Genoa for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Rome or Genoa?

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 Genoa 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 popular, ancient, and archeological city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rome and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than Genoa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Genoa attracts visitors for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Genoa 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. Genoa is famous for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Genoa 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 Genoa?

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

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rome is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Rome is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its music scene. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a live music destination.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

The beach in Genoa is worth checking out. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

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

Genoa offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Genoa?

Rome is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Families?

Both Rome and Genoa are high quality to visit with kids.

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.

Genoa is a very family-friendly destination. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Couples?

Both Rome and Genoa are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Genoa is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Rome, as it is a very popular city for 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).

Backpackers come from all over to visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Rome or Genoa Better for Students?

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

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 Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Is Rome or Genoa 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, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Rome or Genoa a more walkable city?

Rome is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Rome?

How long in Rome or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Rome or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rome due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Genoa. 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 Genoa. 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 Genoa 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 Genoa?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Genoa. 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 Genoa?

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.

Genoa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

Five days in Rome or Genoa?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the energetic destination of Genoa. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rome or Genoa?

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.

The historic port city of Genoa offers nightlife and food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Rome and Genoa, we can see that Rome is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Rome or Genoa?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Rome and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Rome or Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa and Rome during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Rome is around the same temperature as Genoa in the summer. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rome. In the summer, Rome often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Genoa. 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. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In the autumn, Rome is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rome in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Genoa averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Rome usually receives more sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rome usually receives around the same amount of rain as Genoa. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rome or Genoa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rome as well as Genoa. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Rome is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 8°C (47°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in January than Genoa. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Genoa in the Spring?

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

Rome is around the same temperature as Genoa in the spring. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during spring. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rome usually receives less rain than Genoa. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Rome