Rome Vs. Venice: What Destination Is Right For You?

 

A trip to Italy will find you surrounded by stunning art, history and irresistible food. While both are different in character, the romantic cities of Venice and Rome are two of the most popular locations to visit in Italy. Whether it be a soothing gondola ride along the Grand Canal in Venice, or seeing the fascinating sights detailing the ancient history of Rome, travellers worldwide are torn between which city they should visit. Here, we’ll help you answer the question: Rome vs. Venice.

Trevi Fountain, Rome , Italy

Trevi Foundation, Rome

Where's better for food?

The food service in Rome is of an exceptional standard. For those seeking some home comfort food, the lively Irish and English bars and cafes offer a casual dining atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for romance, it’s easy enough to find quiet restaurants with intimate candlelit tables.

However, in Venice the majority of the restaurants ooze romance. Quiet outdoor dining areas situated near the peaceful canals provide the most romantic atmospheres that one would expect. Despite the perfect surroundings, the service is not always at the standards that you are met with in Rome. You may find higher price points and involuntary food additions to your bill. Therefore, it’s wise to be alert when dining in one tourist-heavy restaurants.

Which city is best for content creators?

The argument of Rome vs. Venice is a difficult one to answer for content creators. It entirely depends on what you prefer. In the world of social media, many travellers now seek the best photographic spots. This is why major cities can be expected to be flooded with tourists, selfie sticks or camera equipment.

For those who search for the next best shot, Venice is incomparable to anywhere else in the world. The hidden streets, worn bridges, and gondolas floating on the rivers while the locals hang out their washing – there is something authentic about the culture in Venice which epitomises Italy as a country, making the best photographs.

Ruins in Rome, Italy

For history fanatics, Rome is the place to be. Historic evidence is everywhere one would look, with the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, and ruins seen for miles ahead.  The well-preserved history of the city is not to be missed. 

Which one is more expensive, Rome or Venice?

Usually, the more popular the city, the more expensive it becomes. For those who travel in luxury, this is rarely a problem. But for budget travellers, the price tag is always something to consider. 

Venice overpowers Rome when it comes to expenses. When comparing the dining options and accommodation in both cities, it is common to find a similar price point between the two. However, the tourism industry is booming in Venice, with a gondola ride setting you back from around 80 to 130 euros. 

Gondola ride in Venice, Italy

Tourist attractions, such as gondola rides, are something that most would love to do when visiting Venice. So, be prepared for this to be one of the most expensive parts of your trip. However, once you are floating along the canals, viewing some of the magnificent side streets, suddenly this unforgettable experience becomes priceless.

 

Is Rome or Venice better for tourist spots?

Both cities attract thousands of tourists each year, but from my experience, neither Venice nor Rome felt overcrowded. The two cities can be covered by walking through the stunning streets, and additional transportation will rarely be needed.

Colosseum in Rome, Italy

The Colosseum in Rome and Saint Mark’s Basilica and Rialto Bridge in Venice are potentially the most crowded tourist spots among the two. The quietest times to visit will be earlier in the morning to avoid too many crowds. However, in the hot summer of July during my visit, I had no problems.

St Mark's Basilica in Venice , Italy

Rome vs. Venice: Which is better?

So, what’s better? Rome or Venice? As this is a personal blog post, I’ll provide my opinion. Of the two, I preferred Venice. It is a city unlike no other, with the essence of romance flowing through the air. For those who prefer that ‘fairytale atmosphere,’ Venice will not disappoint. However, Rome is an educational experience for those who want to learn about the history and see the sights while enjoying great food, and I would recommend visiting at least once.

Author

  • Kelsey Haslam

    Kelsey is a travel writer who has featured in luxury travel publications such as Beau Monde Traveler, Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and Ladies What Travel. Kelsey is driven by her wanderlust and eagerness to visit new, lesser-known destinations. She loves getting creative, travel and lifestyle topics. Her travel list is forever growing.

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Kelsey Haslam

Kelsey is a travel writer who has featured in luxury travel publications such as Beau Monde Traveler, Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and Ladies What Travel.

Kelsey is driven by her wanderlust and eagerness to visit new, lesser-known destinations. She loves getting creative, travel and lifestyle topics. Her travel list is forever growing.

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