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

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Rome, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Saint Andrews and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome. Although Saint Andrews and Rome are both popular with visitors, Rome has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saint Andrews is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Saint Andrews 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. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

The Colosseum

How is Saint Andrews different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Rome is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town 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 Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

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

Rome is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Saint Andrews has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Rome is a must-see party destination. 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 Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its live music scene. However, Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Rome is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town 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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews and Rome are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

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 Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town 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).

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome Better for Students?

Saint Andrews and Rome are both first-rate destinations for students and younger travelers.

Saint Andrews is a great destination for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Rome is a very popular university town for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

Rome is terrific for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Saint Andrews or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town 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.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Both Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Rome?

Saint Andrews is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Saint Andrews 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This university town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Saint Andrews or Rome?

Because Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Rome is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Rome in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Rome. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Andrews is much colder than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Andrews in July average around 14°C (58°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. Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Rome. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Rome. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, 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.

In October, Saint Andrews is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 10°C (49°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Rome. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint Andrews can get quite cold in the winter. Saint Andrews is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Rome. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Andrews is much colder than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Andrews in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Rome. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rome and Saint Andrews