A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rome vs. San Jose for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Rome or San Jose?

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 San Jose 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Rome is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Rome travel costs.

San Jose

San Jose is a authentic, traditional, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See San Jose travel costs.

Rome and San Jose: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or San Jose?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rome than San Jose. Rome is bigger than San Jose, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rome is more touristy than San Jose 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. Also, Rome is famous for The Colosseum. San Jose is well known for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from San Jose?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rome is very popular for its museums and history. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

San Jose offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Despite most people rushing through town, there are a number of museums, plazas, and interesting buildings that are worth checking out.

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

Rome is very popular for its restaurants. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Jose. Most people miss out on local cuisine during their time in Costa Rica, but the capital city offers the best opportunities to eat like a local. You can sample favorite local dishes such as chifrijo, gallo pinto, rondón, and casado. You should also wander through the Central Market and dine at one of the many local restaurants.

Is Rome or San Jose Better for Nightlife?

Rome is very popular for nightlife. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Rome is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

San Jose is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city has the best nightlife in all of Costa Rica. You'll find a diversity of clubs and bars that are fun to explore. Check out the reggae bars, dance clubs, and sports bars (where you can enjoy a soccer game) while you're in town.

Is Rome or San Jose Better for Music?

Rome is very popular for live music. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or San Jose?

Rome is very popular for shopping. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

San Jose is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of unique things you can buy in the city including jewelry, handbags, and wood workings. Make sure you check out the Central Market.

Is Rome or San Jose More Beautiful?

Rome is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Rome is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its many beautiful landmarks and impressive architecture, this city has a lot of attractive places to visit. Don't miss Villa Borghese Park, Trastevere, Palazzo Madama, the Appian Way, and Piazza Navona.

San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Rome or San Jose Better for Families?

Rome is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

San Jose doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Most people pass through the city quickly, but if you have a day or two to explore, you can visit the Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños), Spirogyra Butterfly Gardens, or explore the Central Market.

Is Rome or San Jose Better for Couples?

Rome is a very popular place for romance. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Rome makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Most people don't think of San Jose as a couple's destination. While Costa Rica is a popular honeymoon destination, the capital city is often overlooked for the beaches and rainforests around the country.

Is Rome or San Jose Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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).

San Jose is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers appreciate the affordability of the city and the wide range of hostels that you can choose from. The city also offers an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica.

Is Rome or San Jose Better for Students?

Rome is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

San Jose is popular with students. Many students come to Costa Rica to study the country's amazing environment and unique ecological systems. San Jose makes a good base as its easy to travel to other parts of this small country.

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

Rome is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Rome has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

You'll find some public transit in San Jose, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

Is Rome or San Jose a more walkable city?

Rome is very popular for its walkability. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Rome. 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.

San Jose is a somewhat walkable place. It can feel a bit chaotic, but it's relatively easy to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Jose or Rome?

How long in Rome or San Jose?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rome or San Jose to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rome than San Jose 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 San Jose.

Families should spend more time in Rome than San Jose. 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose 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 San Jose?

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Rome or San Jose?

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

San Jose 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 San Jose?

Rome is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of San Jose. This 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 San Jose?

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

The bustling city of San Jose 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rome and San Jose, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is San Jose much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rome is in Europe and San Jose is in Central 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 San Jose would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Jose 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 San Jose.

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

Which is Bigger, Rome or San Jose?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of San Jose. When comparing the sizes of Rome and San Jose, 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 San Jose?

Rome has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but San Jose experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Rome or San Jose in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rome as well as San Jose. Most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to San Jose throughout the year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In the summer, Rome often gets more sunshine than San Jose. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 164 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in San Jose. Rome usually gets less rain in July than San Jose. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or San Jose in the Autumn?

Both San Jose and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Plenty of visitors come to San Jose because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Rome is generally much colder than San Jose. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 17°C (63°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Rome usually receives more sunshine than San Jose during autumn. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in San Jose. In October, Rome usually receives less rain than San Jose. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in San Jose is December to April. May to November is the hurricane season in San Jose.

Should I visit Rome or San Jose in the Winter?

Both San Jose and Rome during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to San Jose year-round.

Rome is much colder than San Jose in the winter. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In San Jose, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Rome often gets less sunshine than San Jose. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 264 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in January than San Jose. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or San Jose in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and San Jose. Many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. San Jose attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Rome is much colder than San Jose. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rome in April average around 14°C (57°F), and San Jose averages at about 29°C (85°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Jose this time of the year. In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rome usually receives less sunshine than San Jose during spring. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rome usually receives more rain than San Jose. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to April in San Jose is the dry season. May to November in San Jose is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for San Jose and Rome