A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rome vs. Orlando for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Rome or Orlando?

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 Orlando 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. 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. Other popular activities here include shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Rome and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Orlando?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than Orlando. Rome is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts. 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. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. Orlando is well known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Rome from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a city with good options for its shows and theatre. However, Rome is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Rome is not a theatre destination.

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

Rome is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Rome is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Music?

Rome is renowned for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

Rome is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

Orlando is a world class resort vacation destination. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Orlando?

Rome is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rome. 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.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Christmas?

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

Orlando is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Rome does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Families?

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

Orlando is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando Better for Couples?

Rome is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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).

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Rome or Orlando Better for Students?

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

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

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Rome is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Rome or Orlando a more walkable city?

Rome is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Rome?

How long in Rome or Orlando?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Rome than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

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.

Orlando is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

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 theater and nightlife when visiting the active destination of Orlando. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Orlando?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the family-friendly city of Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rome and Orlando, we can see that Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando 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 Orlando Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rome or Orlando?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Rome and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando and Rome during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Orlando in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Rome is cooler than Orlando. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rome in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Orlando averages at about 82°F (28°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Rome usually gets less rain in July than Orlando. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Orlando in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Orlando. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Orlando for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Rome is generally cooler than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 17°C (63°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Rome usually receives less rain than Orlando. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rome or Orlando in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rome as well as Orlando. Most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Orlando because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Rome is much colder than Orlando in the winter. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

Rome usually gets more rain in January than Orlando. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Orlando in the Spring?

Both Orlando and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Rome is much colder than Orlando. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rome in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Orlando averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In April, Rome usually receives less rain than Orlando. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Rome