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

Should you visit Rome or Imperia?

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 Imperia 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 bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rome and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Rome or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome. Although Rome and Imperia are popular destinations, Rome has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rome is more touristy than Imperia 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 well known for The Colosseum. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Rome or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Rome is a world class 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Rome or Imperia Better for Music?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Imperia is not a live music destination.

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.

Imperia is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Imperia?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Rome or Imperia Better for Families?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Imperia is a family-friendly city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Rome or Imperia Better for Couples?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Rome or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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).

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Rome or Imperia Better for Students?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Rome has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Rome or Imperia a more walkable city?

Rome
Imperia

Rome is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Rome 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.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Rome?

How long in Rome or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rome or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rome than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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 Rome or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rome 3-7 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Rome or Imperia?

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Imperia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Rome or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

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

A week in Rome or Imperia?

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 charming town of Imperia 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.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Rome?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rome is €170, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. 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 Rome and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rome 89
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rome 178
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Rome and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Rome or Imperia? 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 Rome


Hotels in Imperia


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: Rome Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rome 21
    Imperia 36
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:

  • Bus Transfer Between Airport and Rome Termini Station: $6.39
  • Shuttle Bus Transfer to or from Ciampino Airport: $6.39
  • Shuttle Bus Transfer to or from Fiumicino Airport: $7.46
  • Transfer Ciampino Airport - Rome center: $7.64
  • Transfer Fiumicino Airport - Rome center: $7.64
  • Transfer Rome center - Ciampino Airport: $7.64
  • Fiumicino Airport from/to Vaticano Transfer: $8.73
  • Bus Transfer from Rome to Milan or Vice Versa: $11
  • Transfer from Termini Station to the Maximo Shopping Center: $15
  • Civitavecchia Port to/from Vatican City Bus Transfer: $16
  • Transfer between Fiumicino Airport and Rome Termini: $17
  • Ciampino Airport Rome (CIA) to Rome - Arrival Private Transfer: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Rome or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Rome 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
    Rome 47
    Imperia 35
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
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $32
  • Cooking Class with Wine - Become a Roman Master Chef: $36
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
  • Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Leonardo Da Vini, Wine and Pizza Painting Class: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43
  • Painting and Pizza Party in Rome: $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rome 36
    Imperia 13
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:

  • Cambridge: Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Bergamo Old Town: Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.26
  • Piazza del Popolo and Historical Sights Walking Tour in Rome: $3.27
  • Shared 4 Hours Guided tour of the House of the Emperor Hadrian: $5.11
  • From 1-Way Bus Ticket to Naples or Vice Versa: $5.30
  • Bergamo Old Town: City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.33
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Rome: $5.33
  • Twilight Treasures: An Evening Tour Through Rome's Rich History: $5.44
  • Civitavecchia's Stories and Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $5.54
  • PANTHEON Rome Audio Tour Experience: $5.99

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rome 18
    Imperia 7.50
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:

  • 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
  • Vatican Street Food and Wine Tour with Farmers Market: $37
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $43
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience & Vineyards Tour : $61
  • 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 Rome and Imperia, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Imperia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Imperia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Imperia 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 Imperia.

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


Which is Bigger, Rome or Imperia?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Rome and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Imperia. Many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Imperia this time of the year. In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rome usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rome usually receives more rain than Imperia. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rome 25°C (77°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Rome or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Rome as well as Imperia. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Rome often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Imperia. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rome 17°C (63°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Rome or Imperia in the Winter?

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

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

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

In January, Rome usually receives more rain than Imperia. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rome 8°C (47°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Rome or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Rome during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Rome. In the spring, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rome 14°C (57°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Rome

Rome Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)