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

Should you visit Rouen or Rome?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Rouen or Rome? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Rouen

Rouen is a relaxing, historical, and charming city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Rouen and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rouen or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Rouen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Rouen is known for its historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Rouen 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 home to The Colosseum. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

The Colosseum

How is Rouen different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rome and Rouen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rouen or Rome?

Rome is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Rome are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Rome is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Rome just to party. 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 Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Rouen is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Rouen is not a live music destination.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Rouen is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

Rouen offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Rome?

Rome is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Rome make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for Families?

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

Rome is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Rouen and Rome make for a excellent place to visit.

Rouen is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

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.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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).

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Rouen or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is a world-class destination for students. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

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

With a huge network, the transit system in Rome can get you around easily. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

The public transit in Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

Is Rouen or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Rome?

Both Rouen and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Rouen. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Rouen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Rouen. 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 Rouen. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rome that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Rouen 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 Rouen or Rome?

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

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.

A weekend in Rouen or Rome?

Rouen 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.

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.

Five days in Rouen or Rome?

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

Rome is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Rouen or Rome?

The historical city of Rouen 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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rouen or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Rouen and Rome, 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 Rouen or Rome?

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 Rouen or Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Rome. Many visitors come to Rouen in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Rouen is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rouen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In Rouen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Rouen gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rouen usually receives more rain than Rome. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rouen or Rome in the Autumn?

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

In October, Rouen is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 12°C (53°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Rome. Rouen gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rouen or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Rouen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Rouen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

The weather in Rouen can be very cold. Rouen is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Rouen usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Rouen gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rouen usually receives less rain than Rome. Rouen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rouen or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Rouen during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Rouen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Rouen is much colder than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rouen in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Rouen often gets less sunshine than Rome. Rouen gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Rouen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Rome. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Rouen