Is Rome or Paris Cheaper?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning to travel to Europe but can’t decide between Rome and Paris? One of the key considerations for most people is the cost of visiting these popular destinations.

So, which city is cheaper – Rome or Paris? Let’s find out.

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, both cities offer a wide range of options for travelers. However, Paris tends to be more expensive than Rome. The average cost of a mid-range hotel in Paris is around €150 per night, while in Rome, you can find similar accommodations for around €100 per night.

If you are on a budget and looking for cheaper options, both cities have hostels that offer dorm beds for as little as €20 per night. Alternatively, you could consider renting an Airbnb apartment, which could be a more affordable option than staying at a hotel.

Food and Drinks

Paris is known for its fine dining and gourmet cuisine. However, this means that eating out in Paris can be costly.

On average, a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant in Paris costs around €30-€50 per person. On the other hand, Rome offers plenty of affordable dining options such as pizzerias and trattorias where you can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine without breaking the bank. A similar meal in Rome would cost you around €15-€25 per person.

When it comes to drinks, both cities have their fair share of expensive bars and cafes serving fancy cocktails and coffee drinks. However, if you stick to local cafes and bars frequented by locals rather than tourists, you can save money on your caffeine fix or evening drinks.

Transportation

Both cities have excellent public transportation systems that are affordable and efficient. In Paris, the metro system is one of the best ways to get around the city with tickets costing around €1.90 per ride or €14.90 for a 10-ticket pack. In Rome, the metro system is also affordable with tickets costing €1.50 per ride or €24 for a weekly pass.

If you prefer to explore the cities on foot, Rome is more compact and easier to navigate than Paris. This means that you can save money on transportation costs by walking to your destination rather than taking a taxi or public transport.

Sightseeing

Both cities are filled with iconic landmarks and attractions that are worth visiting. However, the cost of entrance fees can add up quickly if you plan to visit multiple sites.

For example, tickets to the Eiffel Tower in Paris start at €10 for stairs access and go up to €25 for elevator access to the top. Similarly, if you plan to visit the Colosseum in Rome, expect to pay around €16 for an adult ticket.

To save money on sightseeing, consider purchasing city passes that offer discounts on popular attractions and public transportation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Rome and Paris offer unique travel experiences and are worth visiting. However, if you’re on a budget, Rome may be a better option as it tends to be more affordable than Paris in terms of accommodation, food, and drinks. That being said, it’s important to note that prices may vary depending on the season of your visit and your personal preferences.