Which city is cheaper, Portofino or Rome?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Rome vs. Portofino for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples
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Should you visit Rome or Portofino?
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 Portofino 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.
Portofino
Portofino is a picturesque, breathtaking, and opulent seaside village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.
How is Rome different from Portofino?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Rome or Portofino better for Museums and Historical Sights?
While you'll find a number of sights and museums in both Portofino and Rome, you can spend more time enjoying those in Rome.
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.
Portofino offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.
Is Rome or Portofino better for Food?
Dining out in both Rome and Portofino 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.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.
Is Rome or Portofino better for Nightlife?
It's hard to distinguish whether Rome or Portofino 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.
Portofino has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.
Is Rome or Portofino better for Shopping?
Shopping in a popular activity in both Portofino 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.
Portofino is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.
Is Rome or Portofino better for Families?
Rome is considered to a better choice for families.
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.
Portofino is not the most family-friendly destination. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.
Is Rome or Portofino better for Couples?
Both Rome and Portofino 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.
Portofino makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.
Is Rome or Portofino better for Public Transit?
Rome provides more public transit options than Portofino.
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 is generally limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.
Is Rome or Portofino a more walkable city?
Rome and Portofino 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.
It is easy to get around Portofino on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.
Rome and Portofino: Pros and Cons
Rome
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
Portofino
Pros- Good for couples and romance
- Small town charm
- Impressive beauty
- Quaint atmosphere
- Less museums and historical sights
- Less family-friendly
- Less popular with backpackers
- Public transit not as usable
Should I spend more time in Portofino or Rome?
How long in Rome or Portofino?
In either Rome or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than Portofino 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 Portofino is 2-5 days.
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How many days in Rome or Portofino? Ideal Length of StayRome 3-7Portofino 2-5
One day in Rome or Portofino?
People visit Rome because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.
A weekend in Rome or Portofino?
People visit Rome because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Portofino is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to spend here. The entire area has lots to do.
Five days in Rome or Portofino?
People visit Rome because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
Portofino might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This seaside village offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days here when traveling. Five days is often enough time to spend here.
A week in Rome or Portofino?
Rome is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
Because Portofino is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayRome €131Portofino €261
The average daily cost (per person) in Rome is €131, while the average daily cost in Portofino is €261. 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 Portofino in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personRome €67Portofino €152
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomRome €134Portofino €304
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Rome €17Portofino €18
Typical Local Transportation prices in Rome
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:
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Metro Ride (for Two)€2.00
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Train to the Airport€15
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Taxi to Airport€45
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Bicycle Rental (Full Day)€10
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:
- Ciampino Airport – Rome Termini Direct Bus Transfer: $6.81
- Ultra - Private Transfer from Rome City Centre to Civitavecchia Cruise Port: $9.41
- Ultra - Rome Private Airport Transfer from city centre to Fiumicino airport FCO: $9.41
- Rome Hotel to Airports: Shared Departure Transfer (max 8 people): $19
- Airport transfer from hotel in Rome: $20
- Luxury transfer from hotel in Rome to the Civitavecchia Port: $20
- Shuttle Arrival Transfer from Rome Ciampino Airport to Rome City Center: $20
- Taxi Transfer in the City Center: $21
- Shared Departure Transfer: Rome Hotels to Fiumicino Airport: $24
- Shared Departure Transfer: Rome Hotels to Ciampino Airport: $24
- Shared Arrival Transfer: Ciampino Airport to Rome Hotels: $24
- Rome - Castel Romano Outlet / Private Van Transfer: $29
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:
- Portofino - Genoa Airport (GOA) / Private Departure Car Transfer: $56
- Portofino - Genoa Airport (GOA) / Private Departure Car Transfer: $100
- Portofino – Genoa / Private Car Transfer: $100
- Portofino – Genoa / Private Van Transfer: $56
- Private Transfer from Portofino to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $952
- Private Transfer from Portofino to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $1,512
Is it cheaper to fly into Rome or Portofino?
Prices for flights to both Portofino 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
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Food Meals for one dayRome €37Portofino €94
Typical Food prices in Rome
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:
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Casual Lunch (for Two)€14
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4 Ice Cream Sandwiches€2.99
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Cafe e doce€4.00
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Pizza (Fast Food)€2.65
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Sitdown Lunch (for Two)€32
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Cheese and bread€10
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Espresso€2.00
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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
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portofino
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portofino.
- Private cooking class at the old mill in Portofino: $261
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Rome €29Portofino €22
Typical Entertainment prices in Rome
Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)€69
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Coliseum Tickets (for Two)€33
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Roma Pass€30
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Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)€20
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Segway Tour€75
Tours and Activities in Rome
Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Ticket for Pantheon with Audioguide + City APP: $6.22
- A day as a citizen of ancient Rome - live virtual experience: $6.22
- 35-Minute Pantheon Audio Guide Tour: $9.64
- Tours from Home: Essential Rome, The Iconic Piazzas: $10
- Tours from Home: Colosseum & Gladiators: $10
- Ticket to Piazza Navona Undergrounds Stadium of Domitian: $11
- Ancient Rome Virtual Guided Tour (Times in EST): $11
- Self-guided Virtual Tour of Colosseum: The Highlights: $11
- Catacombs of Saint Sebastian Guided Tour: $11
- Catacombs of Priscilla Guided Tour: $11
- Mamertime Prison Entrance Ticket with Multimedia Guide: $11
- Experience the Past Present Future of Video Games at Vigamus - The Video Game Museum of Rome: $12
Tours and Activities in Portofino
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portofino are as follows:
- Snorkel Tour in Paraggi Bay: $44
- Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience: $51
- Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling: $51
- Portofino Kayak Tour: $60
- Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino: $61
- San Fruttuoso Bay: Half-Day Hiking Tour with Lunch: $170
- Portofino Private Walking Tour: $230
- Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure Small Group Tour with Local Dirver: $235
- Half-Day Private Hike Adventure to Portofino and San Fruttuoso: $235
- Portofino private boat tour: $1,058
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayRome €15Portofino €13
Typical Alcohol prices in Rome
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:
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Bottle of Wine€6.50
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Pint of Beer€6.34
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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
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rome and Portofino, we can see that Portofino is more expensive. And not only is Rome much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Portofino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portofino than you might in Rome.
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