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

Should you visit Windsor or Rome?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Rome: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Windsor or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome. Although Windsor 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, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Windsor 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. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

The Colosseum
The Colosseum

How is Windsor different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


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

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Rome Better for Music?

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a live music destination.


Is Windsor or Rome Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Rome

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

Windsor offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Rome?

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Rome Better for Families?

Windsor
Rome

Rome is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.


Is Windsor or Rome Better for Couples?

Windsor
Rome

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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).

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Rome Better for Students?

Windsor
Rome

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

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Rome a more walkable city?

Windsor
Rome

Rome is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Rome?

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

Families should spend more time in Rome than Windsor. 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 Windsor. 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Rome 3-7

One day in Windsor or Rome?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Windsor or Rome?

Windsor 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.

Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Windsor or Rome?

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

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Windsor or Rome?

Because Windsor 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. Because Rome is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Rome or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Rome is £145. 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 Windsor and Rome in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Rome £76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Rome £152
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Rome

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Rome Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Rome £18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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


  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    £1.71
  • Train to the Airport
    £13
  • Taxi to Airport
    £39
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day)
    £8.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Fiumicino Airport Rome (FCO) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $224
  • Private Transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Civitavecchia Cruise Port: $207
  • Rome Private Transfer To Civitavecchia Sea port: $96
  • Rome hotels to Venice Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $293
  • Transfer from Civitavecchia port to Fco Rome airport or Rome : $250
  • Transfer from and to Airport - from and to Port - from and to hotel: $164
  • Airport Transfer to Rome City Hotels - Private Car Service: $65
  • Airport transfer: $120
  • All Italy: Private Premium Transfers in Rome: $76
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Ciampino Airport CIA to Rome City in Business Car: $95
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Fiumicino Airport FCO to Rome City in Luxury Car: $152
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Fiumicino Airport FCO to Rome City in Luxury Van: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Rome £41
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Rome

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


  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    £12
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches
    £2.56
  • Cafe e doce
    £3.42
  • Pizza (Fast Food)
    £2.27
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two)
    £27
  • Cheese and bread
    £8.56
  • Espresso
    £1.71
  • Dinner
    £50

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: $16
  • Tipsy Food Crawl Walking Tour with Dinner: $31
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
  • Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
  • Guided Food Tour with Food and Drink Tastings: $33
  • Roman Master Chef Cooking Class with Wine: $36
  • Roman Dinner & History Tour: An Epic Journey Through Time: $37
  • Painting & Pizza Party with Unlimited Wine: $40
  • Campo dei Fiori & Jewish Ghetto area Street Food Tour: $42
  • Rome Food Tour : Street Food Testings with Local Guide: $43
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Rome £31

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

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)
    £59
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two)
    £28
  • Roma Pass
    £26
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day)
    £17
  • Segway Tour
    £64

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Bergamo Old Town: Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Cambridge: Discovery Walk & Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Self-Guided Audio Tour: $3.26
  • Piazza del Popolo and Historical Sights Walking Tour in Rome: $3.27
  • Shared 4 Hours Guided tour of the House of the Emperor Hadrian: $5.11
  • From 1-Way Bus Ticket to Naples or Vice Versa: $5.31
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Rome: $5.33
  • Bergamo Old Town: City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.35
  • Twilight Treasures: An Evening Tour Through Rome's Rich History: $5.44
  • Civitavecchia's Stories and Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
  • What Emperor Hadrian Lost: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Ancient Rome: $5.99
  • St. Peter's Basilica Rome Audio Tour Experience: $5.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Rome £16

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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


  • Bottle of Wine
    £5.56
  • Pint of Beer
    £5.42
  • Beer
    £8.56

Sample the Local Flavors in Rome

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

  • Trionfale and Prati Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $31
  • Trionfale Farmers Market and Vatican Quarter Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Vatican Food and Wine Tasting Tour next to the Sistine Chapel: $32
  • Cabaret & Burlesque Show: $32
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $43
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $52
  • Tipsy Tour: Fun Bar Crawl In Rome With Local Guide : $53
  • Wine Tour in Historic Center of Rome: $55
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Experience & Vineyards Tour : $61
  • Pasta Making Class & Wine Tasting in a Trasteve Villa: $68
  • E-Bike Night Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $68
  • Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $71


When comparing the travel costs between Windsor and Rome, we can see that Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Rome Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Windsor in the summer for the small town charm and 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, Windsor is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Rome during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives more rain than Rome. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Rome 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere 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 October, Windsor is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Rome. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Rome. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Rome 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Rome in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Rome. The winter months attract visitors to Windsor because of the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rome this time of year.

The weather in Windsor can be very cold. Windsor is much colder than Rome in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Rome during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Rome. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Rome 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Rome in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Rome. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Rome. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Rome. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Rome 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Windsor

Windsor Rome
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 18°C (64°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 25°C (77°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)