A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Sestri Levante vs. Rome for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sestri Levante or Rome?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sestri Levante and Rome 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.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a relaxing, quiet, and scenic seaside town. 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. Other popular activities here include food and beaches.

Rome

Rome is a ancient, archeological, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Sestri Levante and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sestri Levante or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome. Although Sestri Levante and Rome are popular destinations, Rome has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rome is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Sestri Levante attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Sestri Levante 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. Sestri Levante is famous for its two bays and coastal setting.

The Colosseum

How is Sestri Levante different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sestri Levante or Rome?

Rome is renowned for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Rome is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

Rome is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is renowned for its music scene. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a live music destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Resorts?

Sestri Levante is a seaside town with good options for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

Sestri Levante has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Beaches?

Sestri Levante is a seaside town with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sestri Levante. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sestri Levante or Rome?

Rome is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rome. 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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Couples?

Rome is great for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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).

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Sestri Levante is not popular with students.

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

Sestri Levante is not popular with students.

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

Rome is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its public transit.

Rome has a great public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

Sestri Levante has a few public transit options. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

Is Sestri Levante or Rome a more walkable city?

Sestri Levante and Rome are world-class when it comes to walkability.

Sestri Levante is a very easy seaside town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Sestri Levante?

How long in Sestri Levante or Rome?

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

Families should spend more time in Rome than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante or Rome?

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

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sestri Levante or Rome?

Sestri Levante 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.

Rome is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Sestri Levante or Rome?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Sestri Levante or Rome?

Because Sestri Levante 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.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sestri Levante or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Sestri Levante 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.