A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Rome vs. Milan for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

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Should you visit Rome or Milan?

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 Milan 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 ancient, archeological, and bustling 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 here because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

How is Rome different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Rome or Milan better for Museums and Historical Sights?

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

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.


Is Rome or Milan better for Food?

Dining out in both Rome and Milan 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.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Rome or Milan better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rome or Milan 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.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Is Rome or Milan better for Music?

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

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.

Milan has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Is Rome or Milan better for Shopping?

Shopping in a popular activity in both Milan 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.

Many people travel to Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.


Is Rome or Milan better for Families?

Both Rome and Milan are fun 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.

Milan offers lots of family activities. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Rome or Milan better for Couples?

Both Rome and Milan are good 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.

Milan is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Rome or Milan better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome and Milan are comparable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a mecca for backpackers and 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Rome or Milan better for Students?

Rome and Milan are comparable 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.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.


Is Rome or Milan better for Public Transit?

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

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.

Public transit in Milan is top-notch. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

Is Rome or Milan a more walkable city?

Rome and Milan both are comparable when exploring on foot.

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.

Milan is a very easy city to get around on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

Rome and Milan: Pros and Cons

Rome
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Milan
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Should I spend more time in Milan or Rome?

How long in Rome or Milan?

In either Rome or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than Milan because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Rome is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Milan is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Rome or Milan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rome 3-7 
    Milan 1-5

One day in Rome or Milan?

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 nightlife and live music when visiting the big city destination of Milan. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area. One day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Rome or Milan?

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.

Milan is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to spend here. The entire area has lots to do.


Five days in Rome or Milan?

Rome is a fun place to experience. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural big city of Milan. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days here when traveling. Five days is often enough time to spend here.

A week in Rome or Milan?

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week here when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area. One week is often enough time to spend here.

The cultural city of Milan offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Which city is cheaper, Milan or Rome?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rome is €131, while the average daily cost in Milan is €133. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Rome and Milan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rome €67
    Milan €76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rome €134
    Milan €152

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rome €17
    Milan €28
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:

  • Private Transfer by Mercedes and private boat from Rome to Capri all included: $1,991
  • Private Transfer by Mercedes and private boat from Rome to Capri: $1,991
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Bologna (BLQ) Airport: $1,466
  • Transfer From Rome To Amalfi Coast Via Pompei: $1,365
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $1,291
  • Assisi & Orvieto, one day, private transfer: $1,244
  • Direct Transfer from your Hotel in ROME to your Hotel in LUCCA: $1,138
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $1,132
  • Private Transfer by luxury Mercedes and private boat from Rome to Capri: $1,120
  • Private Transfer from Rome to Florence: stops in Orvieto, Siena & Monteriggioni: $1,058
  • Private Transfer from Roma to Pisa (PSA) Airport: $1,043
  • Private Transfer From Rome Apt To Positano: $1,023

Typical Local Transportation prices in Milan

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


  • Train to Airport
    €7.00
  • Malpensa Airport Train (for Two)
    €22
  • Taxi From Airport
    €90
  • Public Transit Day Pass
    €4.50
  • Short Taxi Ride
    €7.13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milan

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

  • 50 seats Coach transfer from Milan to Venice: $3,098
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Milan MXP Airport to Milan City by Luxury Car: $228
  • BERGAMO ORIO AL SERIO - MILANO airport transfer: $135
  • BERGAMO ORIO AL SERIO - Milano airport transfer with private Luxury Van: $161
  • BERGAMO ORIO AL SERIO-MILANO airport transfer with private Luxury Car: $269
  • Bergamo: Bus Transfer to/from Milan City Center: $9.07
  • Bus Transfer from Malpensa Airport and Milan Central Station: $11
  • Luxury Private Transfer From Milan Hotels to Airport: $56
  • Malpensa Airport to Milan VIP Transfers: $170
  • Milan - Como / Private Transfer (up to 3 pass.): $365
  • Milan - Como / Private Transfer (up to 8 pass.): $415
  • Milan - Florence / Private Transfer (up to 3 pass.): $1,079

Is it cheaper to fly into Rome or Milan?

Prices for flights to both Milan 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 €37
    Milan €31
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.

  • Tours from Home: Pizza Cooking Class with Italian Chefs: $15
  • Interactive Cooking Experiences with Renowned Chefs All Over the World (in EST): $22
  • Live from Tagliatelle & Chicken Fricassee Online Cooking Class: $23
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Carbonara, Amatriciana, Pesto & "pasta al dente": $40
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $48
  • Private Italian dinner in Rome with a selection of local wines: $51
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour Artisian Rome: $55
  • Make Your Own Pizza Cooking Class & Dinner: $56
  • 1h Pizza Crash Course with a Chef in Rome: $61
  • 1-Hour Rome Pizza Cooking Class with Dinner: $61
  • Ravioli and Meatballs Cooking Class: $61
  • Pasta & Tiramisu Workshop with Dinner: $61

Typical Food prices in Milan

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


  • Snack at Train Station
    €8.60
  • Restaurant Pizza
    €6.60
  • Casual Cafe Lunch (for Two)
    €27
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    €64
  • Cappuccino
    €1.63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milan

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

  • Evening Food Tour: $90
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Milan with show cooking: $106
  • Food Tour of Brera: $110
  • Small-group Street food tour in Milan: $111
  • Pizza and Gelato-Making Class: $112
  • Gourmet Food Tour: $113
  • Private Italian cooking class & lunch in the woods outside Milan: $118
  • 3.5-Hour Traditional and Modern Food Tour: $130
  • Central Market Tour and Cooking Class: $135
  • Market Tour and Lunch or Dinner at a Cesarina's Home: $158
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Milan: $162
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Milan: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rome €29
    Milan €25
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:

  • 1 Day in 10 Iconic Sights, Luxury Car, Skip the line, Lunch, 100% Private: $785
  • 1 hour Little Ancient Tour of Rome by Mini Vintage Cabriolet with Cappuccino: $156
  • 10-Night Italy Tour: Rome, Florence, Venice and Sorrento: $1,661
  • 2 Days Full Train Tour in Florence and Venice: $1,358
  • 2 Hour Private Tour Rome by Night by Car with an English speaking driver: $299
  • 2 in 1 Entire Vatican Tour & Fast Track Colosseum Ticket: $144
  • 2-Day Best of Rome and Vatican - Luxury Private Tour: $964
  • 2-Day Rome Highlights and Tivoli Private Tour with Pick Up: $1,369
  • 2-Day Venice trip from Rome - private tour: $908
  • 2.5-Hour Private Rome Catacombs Family Tour: $333
  • 2.5-Hours Illuminated Rome by Night Private Walking Tour: $280
  • 3 Hours Rome E-Bike Tour with the entrance to the Baths of Caracalla: $47

Typical Entertainment prices in Milan

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


  • Stairs to Duomo Rooftop
    €7.00

Tours and Activities in Milan

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

  • Santa Maria delle Grazie Self-Guided Tour App: $3.97
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Tour of Sforza Castle: $3.97
  • Santa Maria delle Grazie Reserved Entry Ticket & Tour: $14
  • Bagatti Valsecchi Museum Ticket Entrance: $14
  • Cathedral, Archeological Area and Museum Ticket: $14
  • Milan Cathedral: Rooftop Terraces Ticket (No Church Access): $15
  • Leonardo3 The World of Leonardo: Tickets for the Interactive Exhibition: $15
  • Leonardo's Vineyard with Guided Tour Option: $15
  • Leonardo3 - The World of Leonardo Museum Entrance Ticket: $16
  • Skip the Line: Milan Cathedral Rooftop Ticket: $17
  • Casa Milan Admission Ticket: $17
  • Walking Street Art Tour of Ticinese and Navigli: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rome €15
    Milan €19
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:

  • From Food & Wine Tasting in a Medieval Cellar: $51
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $67
  • Private Rome Food & Wine Tour with Aperitif on Private Roof Top Terrance: $100
  • Wine Tour Experience from Rome factory Giglio: $123
  • Lunch, Diner and wine tasting in a shaby chic italian restaurant in Rome: $135
  • From Frascati 3-Hour Private Wine Tasting Tour: $147
  • Wine Tasting in Frascati from Rome: $160
  • Frascati 3-Hour Wine Tasting PrivateTour: $183
  • Rome Countryside Vineyards and Wine Tasting - Private Tour: $185
  • Rome Countryside Vineyards and Wine Tasting - Private Tour: $187
  • Private 3.5-Hour Castelli Romani Wine Tasting Tour from Rome: $191
  • Rome By Night & Wine Tasting: $195

Typical Alcohol prices in Milan

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


  • Cocktail at a Bar
    €8.40
  • Beer
    €3.35

Sample the Local Flavors in Milan

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

  • Wine Tasting Experience in the City Centre: $41
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $93
  • From Wine Tasting Tour in the Countryside: $101
  • Food and Wine Tasting enjoying the New Milan: $127
  • Milan Countryside and Wine tasting Tour: $148
  • Wine Tour Barolo from Milan: $243
  • Day trip from Valtellina and wine tasting - private tour: $603
  • Food & Wine Tour on Lake Orta from Milan - Private Tour: $695
  • Wine Tour in Franciacorta from Milan: $821

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Rome and Milan, we can see that Milan 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.

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Rome vs. Milan Travel Comparison

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