A Travel Price Comparison for Italy San Remo vs. Rome for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit San Remo or Rome?

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

Should I visit San Remo 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.

San Remo

San Remo is a authentic, historic, and relaxing coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

San Remo and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Colosseum


Is there more to do in San Remo or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than San Remo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while San Remo attracts visitors for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than San Remo 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. It is also well known for The Colosseum. San Remo is famous for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is San Remo different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Rome?

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

San Remo
Rome

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

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, San Remo makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is San Remo or Rome Better for Nightlife?

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is San Remo or Rome Better for Music?

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for its music scene. However, San Remo is not a live music destination.

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

San Remo is not a live music destination.


Is San Remo or Rome Better for Beaches?

San Remo
Rome

San Remo is a great destination for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Remo attract visitors from all over. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is San Remo or Rome Better for its Old Town?

San Remo
Rome

San Remo is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

San Remo is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Remo or Rome?

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. 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 Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.


Is San Remo or Rome Better for Families?

San Remo
Rome

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Remo or Rome.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Remo. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

Rome is 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.

Is San Remo or Rome Better for Couples?

San Remo
Rome

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

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

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.

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

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rome, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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 Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.


Is San Remo or Rome Better for Students?

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

San Remo
Rome

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

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.

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is San Remo or Rome a more walkable city?

San Remo
Rome

Rome is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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 Remo is very walkable. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.


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

Should I spend more time in Rome or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Rome?

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

Families should spend more time in Rome than San Remo. 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 Remo. 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 San Remo 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.


  • How many days in San Remo or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Remo 1-2 
    Rome 3-7

One day in San Remo or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Remo. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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.

A weekend in San Remo or Rome?

San Remo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

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.

Five days in San Remo or Rome?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of San Remo. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.


A week in San Remo or Rome?

The relaxing coastal city of San Remo offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or San Remo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in San Remo is €152, while the average daily cost in Rome is €170. 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 destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Remo and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Remo 80
    Rome 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Remo 160
    Rome 178
Compare Hotels in San Remo and Rome

Looking for a hotel in San Remo or Rome? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Remo


Hotels in Rome


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Remo Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Remo 46
    Rome 21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rome:


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    2.00
  • Train to the Airport
    15
  • Taxi to Airport
    45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • private transfer from Rome to Fiumicino airport: $54
  • Welcome in airport Transfer with welcome box: $88
  • Verona Airport (VRN) : One-Way Private Transfer to Ravenna: $702
  • VIP Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Rome or Vice Versa: $51
  • VIP Transfer from Civitavecchia Port to Rome or Vice Versa: $109
  • VIP Experience Private Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Rome: $76
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Rome HTL-APT (FCO): $160
  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,522
  • Transfers from Fiumicino airport: $76
  • Transfers from Airports to Rome city or Rome city to Airports: $63
  • Transfers From Fiumicino to Terracina: $153
  • Transfers Ciampino airport To Rome: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into San Remo or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and San Remo 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    San Remo 44
    Rome 47

Typical Food Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rome:


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    2.99
  • Cafe e doce
    4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    32
  • Cheese and bread
    10
  • Espresso
    2.00
  • Dinner
    58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rome

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rome.

  • Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $15
  • Eat Pasta in Rome, Testaccio - Self-Guided Walking Food Tour: $16
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $32
  • Cooking Class with Wine - Become a Roman Master Chef: $36
  • Urban Rafting Tour to Tiber Island with A Local Pizza: $38
  • Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
  • Pasta Making & Wine Tasting with Dinner in Frascati from Rome: $41
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Handmade Pasta Cacio e Pepe and Tiramisu Cooking Class: $42

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Remo 23
    Rome 36

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rome

Here are a few typical costs in Rome for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2)
    69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    33
  • Roma Pass
    30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    20
  • Segway Tour
    75

Tours and Activities in Rome

Here are a few actual costs in Rome for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $82
  • Borghese Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket & Golf Cart Ride: $56
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $39
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $195
  • Colosseum Arena Floor with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $74
  • Colosseum Gladiator Arena Floor Complete Guided Tour : $206
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $195
  • Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill Professional Guided Tour: $161
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $184
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour Professional Guided Tour : $151
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $95
  • Electric Bike Tour of City Centre with Gelato Highlights of Rome: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Remo 14
    Rome 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rome:


  • Bottle of Wine
    6.50
  • Pint of Beer
    6.34
  • Beer
    10

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rome:

  • Casella's Follies a Night of Live Music and Burlesque: $17
  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Rome's Ultimate Party aka the Spanish Steps Pub Crawl: $52
  • Roman Night Life and Burlesque Show Tour: $53
  • Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
  • Guided Wine Tasting Experience in a Roman Vineyard: $53
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $54
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $60
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $67
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68


When comparing the travel costs between San Remo and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, San Remo or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of San Remo 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 San Remo or Rome?

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 San Remo or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and San Remo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to San Remo in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

San Remo is around the same temperature as Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Remo. In the summer, San Remo often gets less sunshine than Rome. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets less rain in July than Rome. San Remo gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Remo 23°C (73°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Rome. Most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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 the autumn, San Remo is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Remo in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

San Remo usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. San Remo gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Remo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, San Remo usually receives more rain than Rome. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Remo 17°C (63°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Rome. The winter months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

In January, San Remo is generally around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 9°C (48°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rome. San Remo gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Rome. San Remo gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Remo 9°C (48°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and San Remo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Remo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

San Remo is around the same temperature as Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. San Remo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during spring. San Remo gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, San Remo usually receives more rain than Rome. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Remo 13°C (56°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and San Remo

San Remo Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)