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

Should you visit Valletta 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 Valletta 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Valletta and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome. Although Valletta and Rome are popular destinations, Rome has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rome is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Valletta attracts visitors for its beaches and historical sights. Rome is more touristy than Valletta 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. Valletta is famous for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

The Colosseum

How is Valletta different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Rome and Valletta.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Valletta has many famous sights for visitors. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rome that are not to be missed. 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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Valletta and Rome.

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Eat your way through Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its music scene. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a live music destination.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a town with a few options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

The beach in Valletta is worth checking out. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Rome does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Valletta offers plenty to see. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Rome?

Rome is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Valletta 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.

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Couples?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Rome is a great town 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.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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).

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Valletta or Rome Better for Students?

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

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Rome is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta 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 Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Valletta or Rome a more walkable city?

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

Getting around Rome on foot is easy. 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 Valletta Worth Visiting? and Is Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Rome?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Valletta. 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 Valletta or Rome?

Valletta is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Valletta or Rome?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Valletta. This town 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 Valletta or Rome?

The historic town of Valletta offers nightlife and food. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 380 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta 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 Valletta or Rome?

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

Should I visit Valletta or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Valletta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

Valletta is around the same temperature as Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 26°C (79°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 Valletta. In the summer, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Rome. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Rome. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Rome. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Valletta is a little warmer than Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valletta in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Rome during autumn. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valletta usually receives less rain than Rome. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valletta or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Rome. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Valletta is generally much warmer than Rome. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 13°C (55°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Rome. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in January than Rome. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Rome in the Spring?

Both Rome and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Valletta is a little warmer than Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Rome during spring. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valletta usually receives less rain than Rome. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Valletta