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places to visit between paris and rome

Rome and Paris in One Trip: Two of Europe’s Top Destinations

Janice Waugh

April 1, 2019 by Janice Waugh

places to visit between paris and rome

The streets of Rome.

Rome and Paris in one trip!

That's hitting Europe on a grand scale.

The romantic cities of Rome and Paris, the Eternal City and the City of Light, are two of Europe's hot spots.

They are rich in travel experiences but they can also be expensive, busy, and overwhelming.

In this post I want to give you my best advice on both cities plus your many options for travel between the two.

I have been to both Rome and Paris a number of times. On my most recent trip I went with  Monograms Travel,  a company that takes care of all the logistics and some of the planning for you. You can read what that experience was like in this post as well. But first, here's what you need to know to do these two great cities in one trip, completely solo.

places to visit between paris and rome

The Pantheon is on the left. It's an extraordinary building. It was an engineering feat when it was built in 27 BCE and it is so today. On the right is the Trevi Fountain. Go very early to try to avoid the crowds.

Table of Contents

The Best Time to Go to Paris and Rome

Given that Paris and Rome are top destinations in Europe, they will be less busy and somewhat less expensive if you go during the shoulder season. This means April and May or late September to early November.

Rome and Paris during the Shoulder Seasons

  • Crowds . The earlier you go in the spring and the later you go in the fall, the less crowded both cities will be with other tourists.
  • In Rome, average daytime temperatures are 68°F in April and 75°F in May, 73°F in October and 64°F in November.
  • In Paris, average daytime temperatures are 61°F in April and 68°F in May, 61°F in October and 52°F in November.
  • Hours of daylight . Spring is a bit better than fall. The later you go in the spring and the earlier you go in the fall, the more daylight you will find. April and May in Rome will give you 12 and 13 hours of daylight respectively. Late September to early November will give you 12 to 10 1/2 hours of daylight respectively.

Which City First: Rome or Paris?

Sometimes travel itineraries are affected by how easy the destinations are to navigate, how interesting each destination is, or how familiar the food is as sometimes people want to ease into new tastes. But Paris and Rome are not affected by these factors. They are well set for tourists, both are fascinating, and the food, well, it's incomparably delicious and familiar. So which city should you go to first? Here are my thoughts.

  • Historical relevance . Given that the ancient sites of Rome were built in what is called the classical architectural style and that much of Paris was redeveloped by Haussmann between 1850 and 1870 in the neoclassical style, I would go to Rome first and then Paris.
  • Weather . If you're spending long periods of time in each city, weather might make a difference. If going in spring, I'd go to Rome first and then Paris but if traveling in fall, I'd go to Paris first and then Rome. However, given that most people will do the two cities in a week or two, it's actually not possible to predict which will offer better weather.

Rome and Paris Basic 7-day Itinerary

Whichever city you go to first, here's a basic itinerary. It's based on one week and my basic principle that you can't spend less than three nights in any location on a trip. If you have more time, spend it. There is so much to enjoy in both these cities beyond the major sights. Settle in. Relax and enjoy what the locals do.

  • Day 1 – Arrive in first city. You'll have a half day to get oriented. Perhaps take an overview tour of the city.
  • Days 2, 3 – This will give you two full days to explore.
  • Day 4 – Travel to the other city during the day (see below). Half day to get oriented.
  • Day 5, 6 – Two full days to explore the city.
  • Day 7 – Return home.

places to visit between paris and rome

Thello is a train company that specializes in travel between Italy and France.

How to Travel Between Rome and Paris

There are 1,400 km between Paris and Rome. That's approximately 14 hours of driving. While it's a pretty spectacular drive, if you don't have much time on your trip, there are better options to get between the two cities.

  • Overnight train . Thello overnight trains  run between Paris and Rome in both directions and will get you to your destination at around 9:00 am. They go from city center to city center and save you the price of one night in a hotel. The basic fare is about €200, however, you can upgrade or downgrade using the drop-down arrow beside the price (see image above). For example, for €117 you could go between the two cities in a regular seat between Milan and Rome but in a couchette for 6 women for the overnight portion between Milan and Paris. You could also upgrade to a private cabin between Paris and Milan and pay a total of €350. It's your choice.
  • Daytime train. If you'd rather give up a day in either city and see the countryside between Rome and Paris, which is spectacular, you can take a daytime train. Unlike North America that has Amtrak and Via Rail, Europe has many, many train companies.  RailEurope  is one site that works with all the train companies serving Europe and coordinates between them.
  • Flights . There are many flights daily between Paris and Rome. The flight will cost you between €250 and €300 plus the cost to get to and from the airports in each city. The flights are about 2 hours long but, again, you have to consider the time to get to the airport and being there early for your flight. This can easily add 3 hours to the trip.
  • Bus . This appears to be not much cheaper than the options above, it takes longer and is likely less comfortable.

photo, image, coliseum, rome and paris

Our city tour focused on the Vatican and ancient Rome, both challenging to see without a tour guide due to the crowds. This is a view of the Coliseum from the Palatine Hill.

The Best of Rome: Accommodation, What to Do

What a city!

I went to Rome in 2002 when traveling with my family. I thought I'd done it. I'd seen the major sites, I had them in my mind. Done. Dusted. On to the next destination.

But, no. Rome solo is completely different. I fell in love with Rome. My breath was taken away at every turn. It is, indeed, the eternal city for it's layered in almost 3,000 years of history. This history is shown in its ancient Roman, Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, and even Fascist architecture.

Unlike Paris where there is a uniformity to the city thanks to Napoleon III and his urban planner Georges-Eugene Haussmann’s plan of the late 19th century, in Rome one style of architecture butts up against another in the most surprising ways. Rome's social, political, and military history is evident through its buildings, everywhere you look. It's spectacular. My reaction to this city was visceral.

Where to Stay in Rome

Where I stayed: StarsHotel Metropole  is a very central, full-service hotel with spacious rooms that are more like North America than Europe. From this location I walked everywhere and saw all the major sites of the city. If you don't love walking like I do, this central location means getting around by transit or taxis is cheaper. The restaurant serves both Roman cuisine and a range of international dishes, all prepared with products by Eataly. The breakfast buffet is great.

Other options:

  • Hotel Domus Praetoria   Reader recommended. “This hotel is owned and run by a family of 3 brothers. I have stayed there on 3 separate trips to Italy since 2010. I found the brothers extremely helpful each time I was there, assisting with a couple of small emergencies on the last two visits. Although this hotel is close to the main Termini station in Rome, it is quiet and safe. As a solo mature-aged female I never felt unsafe walking back to the hotel even at night. The reception is staffed 24 hours and you have to buzz to get in from the street. All of the rooms I have stayed in were clean and reasonably roomy, although the ones on the 2nd floor overlooking the street are my favorite. There is a market in the street outside most mornings, but I was never disturbed by noise.” Via Milazzo, 42 Rome  Book it here.
  • Colosseum Garden – Retrome   Reader recommended. “ A small boutique hotel located on a quiet street in a neighborhood only steps from the Coliseum but far enough from the crowds. There are also several places to eat nearby where you will find many locals dining at reasonable prices. Most major attractions in the city are within walking distance and, for things that are farther away, it is located only 2 blocks from a taxi stand and just a few blocks from the subway. Each room is decorated in retro vintage furnishings. They have all been renovated and updated with modern amenities. Staying here is almost like staying in your own Roman apartment apartment, which, by the way, they also have available for rent.” Via Marco Aurelio, 47, 00184, Rome. Book it here .

What to Do in Rome

  • First time in Rome? Start with an overview . A Hop-on, Hop-off tour  is great if you’re short on time or want to get an overview of the city before you dig into its specifics.
  • Colosseum on a small-group tour . Skip the line and take this tour that includes the amphitheater’s underground chambers, which are off-limits to most of the public each day.
  • Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica . Unless you have the day at your disposal to stand in line, it's absolutely necessary to buy a Skip the Line ticket for the Vatican.
  • The Trevi Fountain is open to the public at all times, however, it is incredibly busy most of the time. Get there in the very early morning to truly enjoy its beauty.
  • The Pantheon made my eyes well when I first saw it. Construction began on this magnificent structure in 27 BCE. “Almost two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon's dome is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome.” It is one of the best preserved buildings from ancient Rome thanks, largely, to the fact that it has been in continuous use.
  • Relax in the Piazza Navona. The square dates back to the end of the 15th century. Now there are places for coffee and gelato, street performers, and shops.
  • Take a food tour. I not only had a great time but I learned a lot finding real Roman food on the Trastevere for Foodies  tour by Eating Italy. You can read about the tour here:  A Fabulous Trastevere Food Tour .
  • Check out the street art . The Quadraro district of Rome has the  MURO Urban Art Museum of Rome , a free, open-air display of murals painted by local and international artists. Street art always has a political edge to it revealing more than the surface of the city ever shows.
  • Learn to cook the Italian way . Take a cooking course . This one is in a 17th-century palazzo overlooking the Piazza Navona where I also took a pizza course. This one is for pasta making and tiramisu.
  • Discover a recovering wine region . I don't know a lot about wine. In fact, I had never heard of Lazio and a little research told me why. The wines were considered ho hum but they are making a comeback. Learn all about it at this wine tasting .
  • If you have the time, consider a trip to Pompeii . Take two days if you can and pick up a tour to Pompeii, Sorrento, and Capri . I stayed in Sorrento a few years back and can highly recommend a visit to this area.

photo, image, st. peter's basilica, rome and paris

St. Peter's Basilica and Square

places to visit between paris and rome

Michelangelo's Pietà on the left and the altar of St. Peter's Basilica on the right

photo, image, vatican museum, rome and paris

The Vatican Museum. If you're not going on a tour, it's highly recommended that you buy a “ Skip the Line ” ticket.

places to visit between paris and rome

Views of Rome: The Tiber River (upper left), the Santa Francesca Romana church from the 10th Century (right) and the view from the Trinità dei Monti church at the top of the Spanish Steps (left).

places to visit between paris and rome

Finding real Roman food on the Trastevere for Foodies  tour by Eating Italy. The dynamic fellow looking at the wine was our guide, Luca.

places to visit between paris and rome

Gelato and Pizza Making class.

Enjoy the Best of Paris: Accommodation, What to Do

I've always thought that Paris was called the City of Light due to how the streets, monuments, and towers are illuminated at night.

It turns out I was half right. It is attributed to the fact that it was one of the first European cities to adopt gas street lighting. Doing so was part of Haussmann's renovation of Paris between 1853 and 1870, which resulted in that uniformity of architecture that I mentioned above. It is also because of the city's leading role during the Age of Enlightenment.

Where to Stay in Paris

Where I stayed :  Hôtel L’Echiquier Opéra Paris  is a Sofitel property on a side street away from the crowds and noise but close to Paris' highlights. It's also just a couple of blocks from the bustling Montorgueil quarter where Parisians really live. It's a full service hotel built in the 1850's and decorated in a beautiful belle epoque style. It has a birdcage lift going up the center of a circular staircase. It's a real treat!  Book it here.

  • Hotel Amelie Reader recommended  “Located in the 7th arrondissement, a mere 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. Surrounded by tons of restaurants, cafes, bars, metro stations and stops. Also, it’s just a short walk to the Musee d’Orsay and the Louvre. They have a fantastic breakfast, buffet-style. Very small hotel but packed with modern amenities in each room, including flat-screen TV, modern bathroom, comfortable bed, and a mini-fridge with some drinks. And there’s a strong Wi-Fi signal in each room.” 5 Rue Amélie, Paris.  Book it here .
  • Hotel Esmeralda Reader recommended “This is a small, quirky hotel with a spectacular location – steps from Notre Dame and St. Julien le Pauvre, right on the Seine in the heart of the Left Bank, within walking distance of many of Paris’ historic treasures. Also within easy walking distance of several Metro stations. 4 Rue Saint Julien Le Pauvre, Paris. Book it here .

What to Do in Paris

  • First time in Paris? Start with an overview . A Hop-on, Hop-off tour is great if you’re short on time or want to get an overview of the city before you dig into its specifics.
  • The Louvre, even if you don't want to see the Mona Lisa. The building itself is a wonder.
  • The Arc de Triomphe. You can walk around it but on my first trip to Paris in 1985 I went to the top (it now costs €9.50 to do so) and I still have a vivid image of seeing Paris, the traffic around the Arc, and the view of the Champs-Elysées from the top.
  • The Eiffel Tower: One of the most recognizable structures in the world. It's worth viewing it, even from the ground, to put the tower in perspective. Whenever you're on high ground so that you have a view of the city, have a look for it. It's likely within sight.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral, of course. You'll see a number of highlights of the city in the photos below. Depending on what you want to do, you might want to purchase the  Paris City Pass .
  • Book a Greeter .  Paris Greeters are locals who love their city and want to share it with tourists. You're best to book your Paris Greeter online and in advance. This link will give you a sense of the experience:  Friendly Paris: Exploring the Real Paris with a Greeter
  • Take in a fashion show . Galeries Lafayette near the Paris Opera House offers free fashion shows each Friday at 3pm on the 4th floor by reservation only. Use their  booking page . For the best seats, come a little early and get a seat near the stage.
  • Enjoy a wine tasting . This wine tasting in the cellar of a wine bar in the Montorgueil quarter was good fun and educational. Try the Grand Tour of French Wine  experience.
  • Take a perfume workshop . Paris is famous for perfume. Take a perfume workshop  and learn what's behind the magic. Click here for a list of all the workshops and lessons you can take in Paris .
  • Eat at the home of a local.  I had a wonderful experience with  VoulezVous Diner . You'll get more than a meal. You'll get an evening in a local's home. Dinner and entertainment and local connections – well worth the price – which is quite reasonable. Read Guest in a Paris Salon .
  • More things to do in Paris . Here's a link to all  Viator standard Paris options .

For more, read our budget Paris post:  Solo Travel Paris on a Budget: 32+ Free and Low-Cost Tips

photo, image, arc de triomphe, rome and paris

Driving down the Champs-Élysées approaching The Arc de Triomphe

photo, image, eiffel tower, rome and paris

As if I have to tell you, this is the Eiffel Tower.

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Notre Dame Cathedral in the early morning light

places to visit between paris and rome

Grand Tour of French Wine experience

places to visit between paris and rome

Montorgueil quarter in Paris

photo, image, moulin rouge, rome and paris

I attended a performance of the Moulin Rouge. It was as I expected. Kitschy, fun, and made for tourists.

Paris and Rome the Easy Way

On one trip to both cities I went with Monograms Travel  , a company that is part way between a travel agent and a tour company. They give you an independent experience but relieve you of the tedious aspects of travel.

I arrived in Rome first and was met at the airport by a woman with a sign. I've always envied those people who get picked up outside arrivals and this time I was one of them. She passed me off to a driver who took me to my hotel, pointing out major sights along the way.

At the hotel, I was met by Monograms' local host. She outlined what activities I had confirmed for the next few days and what she would recommend for my time that was not booked. That evening, there was a welcome reception for Monograms travelers. This is an opportunity for all to learn more about their plans while in the city and ask questions. For solo travelers, it's a chance to socialize a bit.

This is the essence of a Monograms trip, a lot of hand holding and, at the same time, a lot of freedom. I took this trip as a guest of Monograms to experience their un-tour concept.

Monograms and the Single Supplement

What about the single supplement? Let's deal with this directly because, as solo travelers, we are all concerned about it. They have a supplement and it's higher than our usual threshold of 20%. However, there are two things that make me comfortable with this. The level of service is exceptional and very personal so the value is well beyond just a room to yourself. There is also the pick-up and drop-off at the airport, the local host who is available to you at all times, even by phone in the evening, and the planning that is done for you without the need to follow a group around. The challenge of independent travel is always in the planning, scheduling, and the transitions and they have this sorted for you.

The Monograms Experience

The Monograms experience is luxurious by my standards. They help with the planning. You can avoid all that hunting on booking.com trying to find the right hotel, location, and price; they take care of it for you. By working with just a few hotels they can exercise buying power and get you more for less. Then there's also the challenge of choosing the right city tour, wine tasting, or cooking class. They take care of this as well by vetting excursions so you can just choose what you want to do, not what tour company you want to do it with. And then there are the transitions. Pick-ups and drop-offs make those easy. Bottom line: I was impressed.

places to visit between paris and rome

On the right is my room in the  Starhotels Metropole where I stayed in Rome and on the left is my room in the  Hotel L'Echiquier Opéra in Paris.

My trip with Monograms Travel was a project managed by iambassador . Of course, Solo Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site.

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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places to visit between paris and rome

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Rome rooftops and landmarks colorful sunset view, capital city of Italy

Road trip from Paris to Rome

If there's anything that can compare with waking up in the beautiful city of Paris, it's finding yourself among the monuments of Rome just a few days later, so why not take a road trip between these two unforgettable European capitals? You can even make a quick pitstop in Switzerland along the way.

The 1780 km road trip from Paris to Rome via Lyon, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, the Cote d'Azur, Cinque Terre and Florence takes 21 hours to complete. You can also travel through the Alps to see Geneva, Milan, Bologna, San Marino and Rimini.

Whether you'd prefer to major on buzzing larger cities or to discover World Heritage Sites and Renaissance gems, this is a road trip that definitely deserves a place on your bucket list. Keep on reading to find out what it has in store.

How far is Rome from Paris, and how long will the road trip take?

Rome, with its historic architecture and unbeatable culinary scene, is around a 14-hour drive from Paris if you stick to the autoroutes all the way.

Add on just a few more hours driving through and you might find yourself taking in stunning views from Mont Blanc or dipping your feet in the Mediterranean as you travel along the Cote d'Azur.

If you head south through the Alps via Geneva and Milan, the 1620-km drive will take you around 20 hours to complete. Although you could cover this distance in a couple of days, there's so much to see along the way that we'd recommend allowing at least 8 days to make the trip.

A little longer in both time and distance is the 1780-km route through Florence, which takes you along the French and Italian coast all the way from Marseille to Pisa. You'll need around 21 hours, split over at least 8 or 9 days, to complete this trip.

If you're finding it hard to decide between the two routes we've put together everything you need to know to help make your mind up.

Roaming around the famous and gorgeous Tour du Mont Blanc

Best road trip route from Paris to Rome

A road trip from Paris to Rome takes you through some of the most exciting and beautiful cities in Western Europe as well as the stunning landscapes of the Alps or the Mediterranean coast.

Staying inland on the Milan Route you'll visit Dijon, Geneva, Milan, Bologna and San Marino on your way to Rome. You can also stop at smaller Italian cities which are famous for their delicious cuisine. Modena is known for its tortellini, gelato and balsamic vinegar, and Parma is famous for cured ham and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Along this route you'll see a wide range of landscapes from the hills of the Bourgogne region to the Swiss Alps, then on through the fabulous Italian countryside.

If you'd prefer to spend some time in coastal cities, we'd suggest looking at the Florence Route, which is an incredible way to discover this part of the Mediterranean. On the way south you can stop in some gorgeous cities including the culinary centre of Lyon and France's oldest city, Marseille.

You'll also travel through the stunning Cinque Terre, Pisa and Florence as well as stopping in smaller cities like Arezzo and Bolseno.

Whether you'll be packing your hiking boots or your bathing suit, keep on reading to find out what's in store on this fantastic road trip!

The Milan Route

Much of this route is simple to navigate, as you'll be following the autoroutes through most of France and then on into Italy. Starting out on the A6, head south through Parc Regional Naturel du Gatinais Francais then continue on past Auxerre before branching off at Pouilly-en-Auxois to reach Dijon.

From here follow the A39 as far as Bourg-en-Bresse before swinging east to cross the Swiss border and reach Geneva. Heading back into France, the autoroute continues on to Chamonix - stop off for fabulous Alpine hikes and mountain views before the Mont Blanc Tunnel takes you into Switzerland again

After passing famous Alpine favorites Cormayeux and Aosta you'll arrive in Italy and then pick up the A4 towards Milan.

Famous vintage tram in the centre of the Old Town of Milan in the sunny day, Lombardia, Italy. Arch of Peace, or Arco della Pace on the background.

When you're ready to move on from this stylish city, the autostrada takes you from west to east via Piacenza, Parma, Modena and Bologna en route to the coast at Rimini. Take a detour to see beautiful Ravenna along the way too.

After heading inland again through the city-state of San Marino, it's time to slow the pace a little and enjoy a jaunt through the back roads of Emilia-Romagna. Follow the Marecchia River as far as Novafeltria then immerse yourself in stunning views as the road passes through Perticara and Pietra Bassa.

Next, merge onto the SS3bis which follows the Savio River as far as Lago di Quarto. Stay on the same road as it takes you through lush green hills, passing Verghereto before you cut through Tuscany and on into Umbria.

Your next milestone is beautiful Perugia, and from here the E45/SS3 bis transports you to Terni and then on to Orte. From here, pick up the autostrada again and simply follow it south to your final destination, Rome.

The Florence Route

This route also starts out on the A6 but continues south to Beaune and Macon before you reach the wonderful city of Lyon. From here the autoroute follows the mighty River Rhone all the way to Avignon before branching off towards the country's oldest city, Marseille.

Next, continue west, detouring if you have time to admire the beautiful landscapes around Aix-en-Provence that inspired the works of Cezanne.

You'll hit the coast at Mandelieu-la-Napoule as the autoroute glides along the Cote d'Azur. Hop off to explore the buzzing coastal towns of Cannes and Antibes before reaching the regional centre of Nice.

From here you can either continue along the autoroute to reach the Italian border or, if you have time, take the slower coast road or corniche to visit Villefranche, Beaulieu, Cap d'Ail and Eze and try your luck in the casinos of Monaco.

The coast road continues through Bordighera and Sanremo, but you can cut back up to the autostrada any time you need to pick up speed.

Once you reach Genoa, you'll approach the fabulous Cinque Terre via SS1. You'll probably find it easier to park up and walk or take local transport between these picturesque coastal villages so make sure you leave some time to explore.

When you're ready to move on, make your way towards Santo Stefano di Magra, where you can pick up the E80 and head south along the coast towards Pisa.

Next, the route turns inland to visit Renaissance Florence before continuing south via the A1 to Arezzo and then on to Orvieto where you'll turn off to take the regional road through Tamburino to reach Bolsena on the lake shore.

From here the SR2 lets you admire the Lazio countryside before you reach Labaro and enter Rome from the north.

Ponte Vecchio over Arno river in Florence, Italy

Best places to stop between Paris and Rome

One of the great things that really great road trips have in common is that the places you'll visit along the way are just as special as your final destination. The route between Paris and Rome is one of these trips.

Here are just a few of the amazing stopovers you can make along the way:

Shop until you drop in Milan

About halfway between Paris and Rome, Milan is a must-see Italian city that's impossible to discover in a single day, so it's the perfect choice for an overnight stay.

Known for its fashion scene and architecture, this busy metropolitan city is a great contrast to the serene countryside that precedes it.

If there's one spot you absolutely have to visit in Milan, it's the Duomo, Italy's largest church and the centerpiece of the entire city of Milan.

Evening scene along the Naviglio Grande canal in Milan, Italy.

Elsewhere in the city, the iconic fresco of Da Vinci's Last Supper is located in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. Make sure to book tickets well in advance as viewing slots are limited and in high demand.

Dating back to the 15th century, and built on an even older fortification, Castello Sforzesco remains one of the largest citadels in Europe and is absolutely worth visiting.

Centrally located, Château Monfort is a beautifully decorated 5-star boutique hotel . Set in a historic building with stylishly themed rooms, you can also relax in the beautiful full-service spa here.

If you're ready to put your feet up after a day exploring nearby Piazza San Babila or the fashion area of Via Montenapoleone, head to the fantastic bar where they'll mix your favorite cocktails or browse the impressive wine list. There's also a delicious breakfast menu to get the next day off to a great start.

See the Leaning Tower in Pisa

Pisa is an enchanting, small city around two thirds of the way along the Florence Route. Best known for its famous Leaning Tower, it also boasts many other wonderful attractions. It's a calmer and less crowded alternative to staying in nearby Florence, though it has a vibrant nightlife too.

Tourist visiting the leaning tower of Pisa, Italy on a sunny day

Once you've seen the iconic Leaning Tower, spend a little longer exploring the Campo dei Miracoli to see some of the other architectural gems that surround it.

Nearby, the Palazzo Blu is a must-see for art lovers who will be interested in its engaging Italian art collection.

Close to the Leaning Tower, you'll find Grand Hotel Duomo , a well-appointed and stylish hotel which has spacious rooms and a great location. In fact, you can see the tower and other city landmarks from its beautiful rooftop terrace.

Round off your day with a drink on the terrace looking out across the city. Or if you're in the mood for something livelier, head to Piazza Garibaldi which comes to life in the evening.

Where to stay when you reach Rome

Just a few steps away from the Pantheon and Piazza Navona you'll find The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel . The luxurious rooms here come complete with wonderful amenities including Acqua di Parma toiletries, and you can enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast during your stay.

With a free fitness center and its own Michelin-starred restaurant, this hotel makes for a fabulous high-end hotel experience while you're in Rome.

You'll feel so rested that you'll be able to really immerse yourself in your tours of the vibrant city's ancient monuments and historical sites, before indulging yourself on a meal of delicious Roman cuisine and a glass or two of Italian wine.

Things to see on a road trip from Paris to Rome

Whichever route you take on your road trip from Paris to Rome you'll find plenty to keep you busy.

Whether you're off in search of culture and cuisine in the big cities, stunning alpine landscapes or the sparkling Mediterranean coast, here are a few of our top picks for places to see on your trip:

  • Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne - The home of Dijon's medieval ducs, this palace in the city centre is packed full of Renaissance gems.
  • Les Halles Market - Stock up on fabulous fresh produce and local specialities at this buzzing French market.
  • Maille Dijon Mustard - Dijon is world-famous for its mustard, and at this boutique store in Dijon you can try many different varieties.
  • Consortium Museum - After exploring so much of Dijon's old world heritage, jump forward in time with a visit to this much more contemporary gallery.
  • Lake Tille - If you're travelling in the summer, come and cool off with a swim in the refreshing water of Lake Tille.
  • Geneva - This gorgeous and historic city in French-speaking Switzerland is the perfect stop for a day's exploration, home to some of the world's largest organizations and surrounded by the Alps.
  • Chamonix - Known for its proximity to Mont Blanc, Chamonix is one of the oldest and most beautiful winter sport resorts in France.
  • Parma - Parma is a must-see along this route, boasting an incredible culinary scene that manages to stand out amongst a sea of wonderful Italian food towns, due in part to its parmesan and prosciutto industries.
  • Modena - Modena might be small and quaint, but it's still packed with tons of attractions, including the Ferrari Museum, a monument dedicated to local hero Pavarotti, and several Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Bologna - Packed with students and boasting an incredible nightlife, Bologna is famous for its porticoes, its culinary offerings - including Lasagna and tagliatelle alla Bolognese - and its celebrated Neptune Fountain.
  • San Marino - The oldest sovereign state in the world, San Marino is only about 60 square kilometers large and boasts a stunning cliff-side castle.

Chillon Castle or Chateau de Chillon is an island castle located on Lake Geneva near Montreux town in Switzerland

  • Lyon - Discover the beautiful city of Lyon, located along two rivers - the Rhine and the Saone - which is known as the culinary capital of Europe for its unreal food scene.
  • Marseille - The oldest city in France, Marseille is a busy port city known for its stunning Basilica and the nearby Calanques National Park.
  • Nice - Check out the stunning beach town of Nice, boasting a celebrated Matisse Museum as well as a gorgeous boardwalk along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Cinque Terre - Perched high on the Italian Riviera, the villages of the Cinque Terre were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in the late nineties. It's perfect for a day trip, just be ready for a hike!
  • Pisa - Best known as being home to the Leaning Tower, Pisa also boasts an incredible nightlife and several celebrated museums, including the Palazzo Blu.
  • Florence - Offering some of the most beautiful architecture in all of Italy and celebrated for its artistic offerings, Florence is a must-see on this route.
  • Arezzo - Famous for its gorgeous frescoes, Arezzo also offers historic architectural landmarks like the Arezzo Cathedral and the Medici Fortress.
  • Bolsena - Take a dip in the beautiful Lake Bolsena, the ideal spot for a picnic and to engage in some popular water sports.

View of Vernazza village, Cinque Terre, Italy. View from the pier to the village

Best time to go on a road trip from Paris to Rome

There's so much to do in Rome and whatever time you visit, you'll find a museum, archaeological site or delicious restaurant to enjoy in this sprawling and historic city. That being said, depending on how much you enjoy heat and crowds, you may be better off choosing certain seasons over others.

Summer in Rome is generally hot, with average highs exceeding 30 degrees Celsius and average lows rarely dipping below 15. This also happens to be the busy tourist season, meaning that attractions, tours and events can get booked up. Prices will rise with the temperature too.

Piazza di Spagna in Rome, italy. Spanish steps in Rome, Italy in the morning. One of the most famous squares in Rome, Italy.

As you'd expect, winter is much cooler, with typical temperatures ranging between 3 and 15 degrees Celsius. It rarely dips below freezing though, and if you're lucky enough to catch good weather you can see the famous monuments under dazzling blue skies. Check out the Piazza Navona Christmas Fair if you're here in December too.

Rates for attractions and accommodation in Rome are at their lowest in the winter, with the exception of the holiday season and Carnevale in February. Come January, many of the city's most-frequented boutiques offer amazing discounts, so this is also a great time to visit for fashionistas.

Spring and fall are both wonderful times to visit Rome, with temperatures averaging between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius. Spring sees the celebration of Easter, and the city is especially beautiful as the foliage returns and flora blooms.

Fall is equally a wonderful time to visit. It offers lots of events in the realms of theatre, opera and dance, including the Rome Film Festival in October and Roma Jazz Festival and the Festival Internazionale di Musica e Arte Sacra, which both take place in November.

Whenever you visit, the sights and sounds of the Eternal City will speak for themselves, just as they have done for so many centuries.

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France and Italy by Train

Your Guide to Train Travel in France & Italy: Paris to Rome Trains & More

6 Incredible Overnight Destinations by Train Between Paris and Rome

Paris and Rome. Paradise and Valhalla, two worlds apart.

On the one hand, you have decadent heaven on Earth known as Paris: the city of love, lights, fashion and gourmet food. On the other hand, there’s Rome: a city synonymous with imperial splendor, incredible art and nocturnal vices.

And then, there’s everything in between. The path from Paris to Rome takes in some of Europe’s most watched and charming cities. The route crosses the green hills of the French countryside, past vineyards and countryside dotted with ancient towns surrounded by château, onto Northern Italy’s terraced vineyards, Renaissance glow and parched sunsets.

That’s where our story is set. We’re sharing six wonderful places you can stop by train on your way from Paris to Rome. Add one stop for a one-week trip or two to three for a two-week vacation. The cities are small enough to visit in a day, but big enough to keep you occupied for several days. We’ve listed them in order of where we think it makes most sense to stop by train starting in Paris.

Lyon, France

The third largest city in France, Lyon is the country’s gastronomic capital. The city is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, its lively cultural scene, and its beautiful architecture.

Lyon has a long history that dates back to Roman times when it was known as Lugdunum. It became a center of commerce during the Middle Ages and flourished under Louis XIV and Napoleon III. Today, Lyon is home to over a half-million residents, including some of Europe’s most acclaimed chefs and winemakers.

Lyon is easy to get to from Paris (about two hours by direct train) on SNCF and Rome (about 8.5 hours by train via Milan) on Thello or Trenitalia. This makes it a great overnight stop on your way between the two cities.

Lyon is best for:

  • wine lovers,
  • architecture nerds.

What to See

The Old Town Quarter of Lyon has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998 due to its stunning architecture and historical significance. This quaint area, known as Vieux Lyon, contains many medieval buildings including 14th century churches with ornate bell towers and 16th century mansions with Renaissance facades. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants serving traditional French cuisine along with shops selling local goods such as wine and cheese.

Fourvière Hill has been inhabited since prehistoric times but became important after Roman soldiers built an amphitheater there 2,000 years ago. The church was built in the 12th century but it was destroyed during the French Revolution. It was rebuilt again in 1864 using medieval architectural styles. Today, La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière is one of France’s largest basilicas with a capacity of 6,500 people. Visitors can climb up to the top of the hill via stairs or funicular for panoramic views over Lyon’s rooftops and riverbanks below them.

Musée des Beaux-Arts

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon has one of France’s finest collections of art from across Europe and America dating back from prehistoric times all the way through modern times. This museum contains works by artists like Monet, Rodin, Van Gogh and Picasso among others. You can spend hours looking at all these masterpieces. It’s located right next to Place des Terreaux, another must-see location in Lyon.

Les Halles Paul Bocuse is a market hall originally dating from 1856. This version, however, was built in 1956 with extensive renovations occurring in 2004. If French gastronomy has a Mecca, a bleating heart, this is it. You’ll find everything from oysters and cured meats to spices and whole chickens. It’s located on the east bank of the Rhone outside the old town.

Recommended Experiences in Lyon

See more experiences >>

Must-Do Tours in Lyon

See more tours >>

Our Favorite Hotels in Lyon

Hôtel le boulevardier.

“Renaissance building…10-minute walk from the old town…”

Bayard Bellecour

“..authentic historical house in the heart of the town…”

Hôtel de l’Abbaye

“…stunning hotel close to the river/shopping.”

see more hotels >>

Where to Eat

  • Brasserie Georges
  • Le Bouchon des Filles
  • La Mère Brazier

Train Information

For detailed information on train times, costs and booking for each leg, Paris to Lyon and Lyon to Rome, please read:

Segment 1: Paris to Lyon

Paris to Lyon by Train

Segment 2: Lyon to Milan

Lyon to Milan by Train (and Turin, too!)

Segment 3: Milan to Rome

Rome to Milan by Train

Nice, France

The French city of Nice is a beautiful seaside town on the Mediterranean coast. It’s located on the French Riviera and surrounded by mountains, making it one of the most popular destinations in France. Located between Marseille and Genoa, it is the seventh-largest city in France. An important city since antiquity due to its position on the Mediterranean coast, Nice has a lot to offer travelers.

The city was founded by Greeks from Massalia (current day Marseille) who arrived by boat around 350 BCE. The small settlement grew into a prosperous trading center under Roman control in the 1st century BCE. In 1388 it became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia and remained so until 1792 when it was conquered by Napoleon Bonaparte’s army during his campaign against the First Coalition. Napoleon’s rule marked an important period in the history of Nice: he built roads and infrastructure (the Promenade des Anglais), headquartered here during his Austrian campaign in 1809 and even spent six months in exile here after his defeat at Waterloo (1815).

Nice is best for:

  • beachcombers,
  • seafood seekers,
  • beautiful people-watchers.

Promenade des Anglais

A walk along the waterfront on Promenade des Anglais is one of the best ways to enjoy Nice’s beautiful weather. The promenade extends for about 4 km along the Baie des Anges, which makes it a great place for jogging or biking as well as walking. You can also take a tour boat along this stretch of water if you want to get some great views from above!

On top of Mont Boron stands Fort du Mont Alban , which houses a museum dedicated to Greek mythology, including many statues brought back from excavations at Olympia (northwest of Athens). Take the funicular railway up here for great views over the city and the coast. You can buy tickets for this one at any railway station or from an automated machine.

Villa Masséna Musée

The Massena Museum , in the former residence of Napoleon’s stepson, Prince Eugène de Beauharnais, has a nice collection of Greek and Roman archaeological artifacts as well as paintings by local artists. There are also some interesting temporary exhibitions on display here. The museum is located in the Massena Palace, which was built in 1858. It is a short walk from the center of Nice and accessible by tram or bus.

Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice

This 17th-century Sainte-Réparate cathedral with a bell tower is one of the most impressive buildings in Nice. It is located near Place Rossetti and has a very ornate interior. You can enter for free but donations are appreciated.

Our Favorite Hotels in Nice

Nice riviera sweet home.

“An affordable central bed and breakfast! So homely, easy going, though full of respect. I would definitely come back.”

Hôtel Vendôme

“Great location for the price and the lobby, breakfast/common areas were very clean and attractive. The room was nice.”

Hôtel La Pérouse

“The hotel was beautiful! It’s conveniently situated at the end of old town Nice built into a cliff with stunning views of the town, beach, and ocean.”

SEe More Hotels >>

Recommended Experiences in Nice

Must-do tours in nice, where to eat in nice.

  • Lavomatique
  • Les Agitateurs

For detailed information on train times, costs and booking for each leg, Paris to Nice and Nice to Rome, please read:

Segment 1: Paris to Nice

Paris to Nice by Train

Segment 2: Nice to Rome

Nice to Rome by Train

Milan, Italy

Milan is Italy’s second-largest city and the capital of Lombardy. It’s also a major business center and one of the country’s most important transportation hubs. One can easily say that Milan is the most sophisticated stop on our Paris to Rome itinerary.

Milan has a deep history, first settled by Gauls before Rome conquered and incorporated it into the Republic in 222 BCE. The Emperor Diocletian anointed Milan the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later played a key role in the Renaissance era.

Milan is also known for its cuisine. Some of the most famous dishes include risotto alla milanese (saffron-infused rice cooked in bone broth), ossobuco con risotto alla milanese (veal shank braised with vegetables and served with rice) and cotoletta alla milanese (breaded veal cutlet).

Today, Milan is Italy’s leading financial center and one of Europe’s most important cities for fashion and design. It’s also home to some of the country’s best museums and galleries, as well as some renowned architecture from different eras. For many sightseers, no trip to Milan is complete without visiting Da Vinci’s Last Supper in Santa Maria delle Grazie church .

Milan is best for:

  • fashionistas,
  • coffee lovers,
  • museum hoppers.

Duomo di Milano

Considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe, construction began on the Duomo di Milano in 1386 and didn’t finally, 100% finish up until 1965. The cathedral’s facade is decorated with statues depicting saints, apostles and prophets; it also includes a large rose window that shows Christ sitting on his throne surrounded by angels. The interior contains many chapels and frescoes depicting biblical scenes; it also has several altars topped with gold leaf ornaments that reflect light from windows above them during services held inside this church each week.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Located near Piazza del Duomo, this shopping mall was built from 1865 to 1877 to commemorate Italy’s unification as a nation. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is now home to some of Italy’s top luxury brands including Prada, Dior, Gucci and Armani. The Galleria has an elegant, glass-domed ceiling that lets sunlight in, allowing shoppers to enjoy their purchases under the open sky.

Castello Sforzesco

Sforzesco Castle has been the site of many important events in Milan’s history. The castle was first built in 1386 and was originally used as a military stronghold; it also served as a prison for political prisoners. Today, there are several museums inside this castle including the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco, featuring works by Titian, Tintoretto and Vincenzo Foppa.

Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio

The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio is one of the oldest churches in Milan. It was built beginning in 390 CE and features beautiful Byzantine mosaics, marble columns, frescos and sculptures. The basilica is also home to the remains of St. Ambrose, a 4th-century bishop who played an important role in converting the Roman Empire to Christianity.

Hand-picked tours and activities in Milan, Italy:

Where to Stay

Our favorite hotels in Milan, Italy for every budget:

budget: Hotel Nuovo

“…650 feet from Milan’s cathedral, the Duomo.”

mid-range: Hotel Berna

“…650 feet from Milan Central Train Station .. .”

Upscale: Antica Locanda Leonardo

“…elegant property…just 350 feet from…Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.”

  • Panzerotti Luini
  • Al Bacco di Andrea e Carola
  • Rinomata Gelateria
  • SCIUÉ Navigli

For detailed information on train times, costs and booking for each leg, Paris to Milan and Milan to Rome, please read:

Segment 1: Paris to Milan

Paris to Milan by Train

Segment 2: Milan to Rome

Venice, italy.

Venice, Italy is a city of canals, gondolas and romance. It has been called the “Queen of the Adriatic” and is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. The city is divided into six main districts: San Marco, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, Santa Croce, San Polo and Castello.

The city is built on more than 100 small islands separated by canals. The buildings are tall and narrow, rising straight up from the water. Venice was founded in 421 CE, when refugees fleeing Goths, who themselves were fleeing Attila the Hun, settled on islands in the Adriatic Sea off the Italian coast. The city became a prosperous trading center for Eastern goods such as silk and spices as well as Western goods like grain from North Africa.

Venice has a long history as a maritime power and played an important role in the Crusades and as an ally of Venice’s rival Genoa during the Ottoman-Venetian Wars (1499-1503). In 1797 Napoleon Bonaparte conquered Venice and made it part of his empire. During World War II it was occupied by Germany but was liberated by British and American forces in 1944.

Arriving in Venice by train is an urban baptism unlike any other. You’ll exit Santa Lucia station by descending an elegant staircase to the magical Grand Canal, where you’ll catch a “vaporetto,” a public ferry that circulates on predetermined routes throughout Venice just like other cities’ (those built on dry land) public bus systems.

Venice is best for:

  • history buffs,

Palazzo Ducale

The Doge’s Palace was built as a symbol of power by the Venetian Republic from 810 to 1423 AD. The palace complex includes several buildings that were once used for government offices, but today they serve as museums or tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the 15th century building that once housed lawmakers and government leaders, or take guided tours through its rooms and hallways.

Basilica di San Marco

Saint Mark’s Basilica is one of three major basilicas located in Venice (the others are Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari and Santa Maria della Salute). It was originally built as a church by Doge Enrico Dandolo in 1106 AD to honor St. Mark. The basilica di San Marco (St Mark’s Basilica) was completed in 1063 and is considered one of Venice’s finest religious buildings.

Piazza San Marco

Saint Mark’s Square is surrounded by impressive buildings such as the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace), La Fenice Opera House (burned down in 1836 and rebuilt) and La Salute Church (completed in 1732). The Piazza San Marco is the most famous square in Venice, and one of its busiest. In front of the basilica stands a tall column topped with a statue of Winged Lion, also called “Il Moro”.

Ponte di Rialto

The Rialto Bridge was the first stone bridge to be built in Venice and is considered one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The bridge was constructed between 1588 and 1591. It spans across a canal that divides the city into two parts: San Marco and Cannaregio. The bridge spans across the Grand Canal, which divides Venice into six different districts. It’s a perfect place to watch Venetian life pass by.

Hand-picked tours and activities in Venice, Italy:

Our favorite hotels in Venice, Italy for every budget:

budget: Pensione Guerrato

“…historic budget option steps from Rialto Market.”

mid-range: Locanda Casa Querini

“…16th-century building, 5 minute walk from St. Mark’s Square.”

Upscale: Novecento

“…inspired Mediterranean and Oriental furnishings.”

  • Bistrot de Venise
  • Happy Pizza
  • Cantina Do Mori
  • Ristorante Antica Sacrestia

For detailed information on train times, costs and booking for each leg, Paris to Venice and Venice to Rome, please read:

Segment 1: Paris to Venice

Paris to Venice by Train

Segment 2: Venice to Rome

Rome to Venice by Train

Florence, Italy

The city of Florence, Italy is a must-see destination for any traveler to Europe. It is an ancient city with an impressive history. In fact, it may be the most culturally impressive city on this Paris to Rome itinerary. Romantics, artists, foodies, history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, Florence is for you…quintessential southern Europe that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Florence was founded by Julius Caesar in 59 BCE as a colony for Roman veterans. It was named Florentia, meaning “Flourishing Flower”, because it was located on the banks of the Arno River where flowers grow abundantly. In the 12th century Florence became an independent city state. The Medici family took control of Florence after they gained power in 1434 and continued to rule until 1737 when they were expelled by Cosimo III de’ Medici. In 1859 Florence joined other Italian states together to form a single kingdom called Kingdom of Italy with Victor Emmanuel II as its king.

Florence is best for:

  • art lovers,
  • Renaissance ramblers,

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore

Known simply, beautifully and reverently as Il Duomo , the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Italy, measuring 135 meters long, 91 meters wide and 139 meters tall at its highest point. It was built between 1296 and 1436 by Filippo Brunelleschi (and many subsequent architects after his passing) as a symbol of pride for Florentine citizens who wanted their city to be recognized throughout Europe. The constructions of its iconic dome is widely considered an ignition source for the forthcoming Renaissance, an era where northern Italy made great strides in science, art and economics. Inside the cathedral are numerous frescoes by Renaissance artists such as Giotto di Bondone, Cimabue and Andrea Orcagna among others. For adventurous travelers, book a walking tour up the dome.

Battistero di San Giovanni

The Baptistery of St. John is one of the most iconic structures in Florence, Italy. It was constructed between 1059 and 1128 by the architect Diotisalvi as a baptistry church where people would be baptized. The building is famous for its beautiful marble Gates of Paradise by Ghiberti which depicts scenes from Genesis, the life of Jesus Christ, and various saints.

Palazzo degli Uffizi 

The Uffizi Gallery was built in 1560 for the Medici family and designed by Giorgio Vasari. The building houses an art gallery with works from some of the most famous artists in history including Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci among others. One of the most famous paintings inside is Botticelli’s Birth of Venus.

Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze

The Accademia Gallery was built in 1784 and is located on the River Arno. The building houses a collection of Renaissance art including works by Michelangelo, Donatello and Giambologna. Its most famous statue is Michelangelo’s David. Book tickets online in advance.

Hand-picked tours and activities in Florence, Italy:

Our favorite hotels in Florence, Italy for every budget:

budget: Hotel Dali

“…close to Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio.”

mid-range: Hotel Nuova Italia

“…ideal for visiting the city’s museums and monuments.”

Upscale: Gallery Hotel Art

“…modern and bright…Next to Ponte Vecchio in the heart of Florence.”

  • Mercato Centrale
  • Trattoria Dall’Oste
  • I Fratellini
  • The Antico Ristoro di Cambi
  • Trattoria Antico Fattore

For detailed information on train times, costs and booking for each leg, Paris to Florence and Florence to Rome, please read:

Segment 1: Paris to Florence

Paris to Florence by Train

Segment 2: Florence to Rome

Rome to Florence by Train

Siena, Italy

Siena, Italy is the smallest destination on our Paris to Rome route and a city with a rich history. The city is known for its old world charm and beauty. Siena is renowned for its “palio,” a horse race held twice annually in Piazza del Campo that dates back to 1294.

The history of Siena, Italy goes back thousands of years to an Etruscan city founded around 800 BCE. Siena remained a sleepy backwater under Roman rule, finally emerging as a key player in Northern Italy during the 14th century. In fact, it vied for influence with rival Florence. Napoleon ruled over Northern Italy until 1814. After Napoleon’s defeat, Siena became the first city to join the newly formed Kingdom of Italy in 1859.

Siena is best for:

  • piazza hounds,
  • wine lovers.

Piazza del Campo

The Campo Plaza is the most important square in Siena and the most beautiful in Italy. The piazza has been used for horse racing since medieval times, hosting the annual Palio race, and it has been the scene of many famous festivals and tournaments. In 1519, a bullfight was held on this piazza to celebrate the defeat of the French by Spanish forces. A marble statue of Pope Alexander VI was placed on a pedestal in front of the Palazzo Pubblico to commemorate this event. This statue is known as il Toro Farnese (the Farnese Bull).

Duomo di Siena

The Duomo is a medieval cathedral and one of the most famous and artistically important churches in Italy and the spiritual center of the city. It was built in Gothic style in 1215–1263 on the site of an earlier cathedral dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. One of Italy’s greatest Gothic cathedrals, it was built between 1215 and 1263 and contains many works by Simone Martini (1284-1344) and Lippo Memmi (ca 1310-1369). These artists were among the most important painters working in Siena at this time. They painted many frescoes and altarpieces for churches throughout Tuscany during the 14th century.

Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

The Duomo Museum is one of the most famous museums in Italy. It houses several paintings and sculptures from the ancient era to modern times. It is also home to a collection of paintings by Giotto di Bondone and his students. The museum has more than 4,000 pieces on display, making it one of the largest museums in all of Italy. Visitors can also enjoy many different exhibitions throughout the year that feature works from artists around the world.

Torre del Mangia

The City Tower is another popular monument that can be found in Siena, Italy. This tower was built between 1334 and 1348 by order of Pope Clement VI as part of his plan to fortify important cities within Tuscany and Rome. The structure stands 100 meters tall and offers breathtaking views over Siena’s historic center as well as surrounding areas like Florence (Florence) or Pisa (Pisa). The tower offers both guided tours and self-guided tours so visitors can explore at their own pace.

Hand-picked tours and activities in Siena, Italy:

Our favorite hotels in Siena, Italy for every budget:

budget: albergo bernini

“…panoramic terrace…family-run…in historic building.”

mid-range: B&B Pantaneto

“…center of Siena .. .garden with a terrace . “

Upscale: Palazzetto Rosso

“…steps from Siena Cathedral, Basilica di San Domenico, Piazza del Campo.”

  • Bar Il Palio
  • Trattoria la Torre
  • Osteria Del Gatto
  • Antica Trattoria Papei

Segment 1: Paris to Siena via Florence

Segment 2: siena to rome.

Rome to Siena by Train

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France & italy by train.

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  • Stopovers between...

Stopovers between Paris and rome

We will travel by day train between Paris and Rome in late Sept/early October. One of our goals is to see some of the countryside, so we have ruled out flying and the overnight train. We can stop over one night or two nights on the way. I am considering a stopover in Kandersteg, then I'd very much like to at least see the Cinque Terra. I'm wondering if it would be feasible to take the train through that area to Rome? Or feasible to spend one night in one of the villages, then continue to Rome the following day? Or is there a better option for an overnight? Or should I just skip the second stopover to have another night in Rome? (We normally don't like big cities much, but do want to see some of Rome's highlights.)

" Or should I just skip the second stopover to have another night in Rome? (We normally don't like big cities much, but do want to see some of Rome's highlights.)" As much as I love the CT, this is your best bet unless you have at least 3 extra days.Keep an open mind regarding Rome- there is sooo much to see.

Rome is not just a city. It is a CITY. I'm an ex-New Yorker, and adore cities (the speed! the honking! the people! the congestion! the smells! the craziness!) and Rome almost ate me alive my first time there. The problem is that, like Bob says, there is SO MUCH to see that with so little time, you run the risk of shortchanging yourself on Rome by doing a one day stopover elsewhere. So on balance, I'm going to vote for... an extra day in Rome. You'll be less rushed, too, so you can program fewer big sights into each day, and build in some relaxing pauses for downtime.

Okay, so nix the stopover in the Cinque Terra unless I can rearrange the itinerary and steal a night from somewhere else. But would it be worth the time to take the train through there just to see the area? I know it would take lots of time, but I'm having trouble figuring out just how much extra time. We like train travel (once we're actually on the train, lol). Since most of our trips are road trips with 6-10 hour days in the car, train travel is a lot more relaxing.

" But would it be worth the time to take the train through there just to see the area?" Paula, let's give this a Western Slope analogy- would you divert from a trip from Montrose to Seattle to see the scenery in Taos, New Mexico? I will now suggest a little map time so that you might think this out- planning a trip is part of the fun. Alway assume that there will be another trip!

lol, Bob! I recently helped a traveler with a similar dilemma, who wanted to go from Denver to Telluride to Durango to Taos to Las Vegas, NV. They finally decided to go south to Taos first, then Durango, etc. But of course it would've been much quicker to fly to Las Vegas, or to drive via Interstate 70! Believe me, I have been doing map time! It seems to me, by looking at the map, anyway, that the Cinque Terra is in the same general direction I want to go, albeit with lots of stops and on slow trains instead of fast ones. My map does have rail routes on it, but it is still a little confusing and I realize that sometimes you "just can't get there from here" and what looks possible or even easy on the map doesn't work out that way in reality. Just trying to get opinions on whether taking the long way 'round would be worthwhile (or even possible) just for the views if I don't have time to make the stop over. Thanks!

But it is looking like it wouldn't be feasible and I'll just have to keep that area on the bucket list for next time! Thanks

Hi Paula I don't think you should give up so easily. I think Cinque Terra is definitely worth a stopover. What a nice break it would be. You will then arrive in Rome fairly rested, which you'll need there. You didn't mention how many days you have for Rome, but I think if you have at least 2, that's plenty. I looked at a map too and CT doesn't seem out of the way. See if you can route yourself from Paris to Genoa (Genova); then it's a straight shot down the coast to the CT. Or even if you're going through Milan, again you could easily get to Monterosso and the rest of the CT. In fact, if you could get to the CT from Paris in one long day, it might be worth spending both your nights there. That will give you a full day to soak in the beautiful sights and take a little hike. Then you can wake up the next morning, hop a train for Rome and you'll be there in about 4 hours.

Paula.. I agree with Charlene especially since you indicated you do not love big cities. I have been to Rome a few times and the CT many, and while I enjoyed Rome, give me CT and the villages and the Sea over another day in Rome. Personal preference, but I would have my day in CT. If you have a few days in Rome and love it... you can always return there if you want...no need to give up what you want to do.

Paula, I don't see where anyone has already mentioned this, so use Bahn.com (the German rail company - they show lots of international routes, too) to look at your train routes. Sometimes a map leads you to be over optimistic :-( For instance, many train routes in France will take you through Paris, even though it's waaaay out of the way. They work on a spoke system, like the hub system used by some USA airlines. You're thinking 1 hour, but it's 4 with a train change! It can be the same thing with getting to the CT...or many other places. Some routes don't use fast, or even 'quickish' trains, while other routes you'd expect to be pokey milk runs zip along at 160MPH. Spend some time on Bahn.com looking at train availability, routing, and prices (3 months in advance = great savings...but generally speaking, you can only book German trains on the German site). You can also buy cheap tickets on other countries' websites, but that's a whole 'nother topic ;-)

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Paris vs Rome: which iconic city is right for you?

Nicola Williams

Apr 5, 2022 • 11 min read

Two smiling Muslim women look at the photos they have taken on their camera whilst stood in front of Montmartre, Paris

Whether you choose Paris or Rome, don't forget to take a camera © LeoPatrizi / Getty Images

First things first. Both European capitals are impossibly good-looking, possess rich history and natural charm in spades, and flaunt an infuriatingly unfathomable panache. Art de vivre. Dolce vita. Call it what you like. Paris and Rome are peerless cultural icons that know their ‘je ne sais’ from their ‘quoi’  and understand only too well how to live the Good Life in style.

This is precisely why it can be so maddeningly tricky to choose between the two when planning a romantic city break, family escape, or week’s vacation centered around world-class art museums, eminently fine food and wine, stylish boutique shopping, intoxicating café life, and rip-roaring entertainment after dark.

Beautiful biracial couple at Bernini fountain in Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy

Which city bags the prize for best art and architecture?

Few cities rival Paris or Rome’s gargantuan artistic heritage, which makes a showdown between these two cultural heavyweights all the more enthralling.

Paris’ Musée d’Orsay is the crown jewel of Impressionism

The French capital has been known as the ‘city of light’ or La Ville Lumière since the Age of the Enlightenment when it emerged as a hub of learning and education. The glittering belle époque launched art nouveau architecture and a whole field of artistic ‘isms’, and by the 1920s Paris was Europe’s center of the avant-garde. 

Creativity and innovation remain the lifeblood of contemporary Paris, and for art lovers, the instinctive artistry and ingenuity pulsating from every museum, gallery, or street mural are unmatched. Even metro stations, for goodness sake, are œuvres d’art in this resplendent capital jostling with art and architecture icons known the world over ( Musée du Louvre , Centre Pompidou , Eiffel Tower ) and treasured niche collections ( Musée Guimet des Arts Asiatiques , Musée du Quai Branly , Musée Cernuschi ) prized by globe-trotting curios.

Art and architecture in Paris are not limited to one artistic period or genre. From the vast collections of paintings and sculpture at the Louvre (antiquity to mid-19th-century) and Musée d’Orsay (mid-19th-century to 1914) to the crown-jewel Impressionism of Monet & Co at Musée de l’Orangerie and Musée Marmottan Monet , or the treasured Picassos at the same-name house museum , there really is something for everyone.

Art in Paris also dares to surprise and thrill: Exquisite stained glass from the 13th century in Gothic Sainte-Chapelle ; ornate tombs in a 44-hectare sculpture garden at Père Lachaise ; digital light projections in a 19th-century foundry at Atelier des Lumières ; ephemeral wax sculptures that melt before your very eyes at the Bourse de Commerce Pinault Collection , open since 2021 in Paris’ historic grain market and stock exchange.

Ceiling frescoes by Michelangelo in Rome are among the world’s most famous artworks

Paris might have the Louvre and Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, but Rome has Michelangelo. The Italian artist’s fresco of the Last Judgement (1508–12) in the Sistine Chapel gave Western Art its most iconic gesture – a bearded God pointing his finger at Adam to bring him to life – and no other artwork is such a Herculean crowd puller: On busy days up to 2000 visitors stare up in unison at it. Other Michelangelo masterpieces in the capital (Pietà in St Peter’s Basilica , Moses on Julius II’s tomb in Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli , a naked resurrected Christ in Basilica di Santa Maria Sopra Minerva ) confirm Rome as Michelangelo Central.

Given Rome’s superlative ancient history, it is not surprising that the Italian capital doesn’t do modern or contemporary art quite so well. How could it when its repository of priceless ancient, medieval, and Renaissance art is so encyclopedic? Days can be spent devouring classical art (Raphael fresco alert!) in the Vatican Museums , Caravaggio and other great titans in Museo e Galleria Borghese , and 11th- to 18th-century treasures in Palazzo Barberini – all displayed in sumptuous palaces. Fountains by baroque master Bernini practically litter the city. For art enthusiasts eager to wind to the beginning, Rome rewards with Etruscan art and artifacts in the Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Villa Giulia , ancient sculptures in the Capitoline Museums , and Byzantine frescoes and mosaics in overlooked gem Museo Nazionale Romano .

The winner: It must be a tie. If your internal art compass naturally hovers over early art history on the timeline, Rome is your victor. Nineteenth-century and beyond? Pareeeee, ma chère!

A silhouetted couple walk out of a dark passageway in Paris France and into the night, which is lit up

Both cities are cultural divas after dark: which seduces most?

Befitting of European capitals, Paris and Rome entertain with a lavish pageant of opera, theater, live music, and cinema. In summer many nightclubs in both cities close, but art festivals pop up and social life spills outside onto café terrace-stitched squares, parks, and star-spangled riverbanks along the Seine and the Tiber.

Catch cabaret on a fabled stage or mix with thespians in backstage Paris

For visitors to the French capital, whirling lines of feather-boa-clad, cancan dancers at grand-scale cabarets like Pigalle’s fabled Moulin Rouge are an evitable fixture. A flurry of prestigious venues ( Palais Garnier , Opéra Bastille , Comédie Française , Philharmonie de Paris and La Seine Musicale ) stage French and international opera, ballet, theater and musicals.

Backstage at Point Éphémère , Le 104 , La Place (meet French hip hop!), and other experimental venues, young, passionate, highly creative musicians, thespians, and other artists carve out a compelling fringe scene. That’s before we get onto the world-class musiques du monde (world music) and cinema.

Enjoying a bewitching show beneath the stars amid ancient ruins in Rome

Rome’s charm lies in its insanely enchanting and historic backdrops. Summer festivals make splendid use of the archaeological scenery, with evening performances taking place at Ostia Antica’s Roman theatre , Teatro di Marcello amid ancient ruins in the Centro Storico and Tivoli's Villa Adriana . Catch classical music by Rome's world-class Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia at the flagship Auditorium Parco della Musica or opt for a free concert in a church – the acoustics are sublime.

The winner: You’ll have a ball in either city, but Rome wins this duel for its generous fairy-godmother sprinkling of freebie concerts and atmospheric festivals every Cinderella can enjoy.

Three cheerful multiracial women eating pizza in the street - Happy millennial friends enjoying the weekend together while sightseeing an italian city - Young people lifestyle concept

Which city feeds foodies best?

Paris and Rome live to eat. From traditional street markets and experimental food trucks to casual bistros and trattorie, elegant restaurants, and gastronomic temples, both promise a feast of outstanding foodie ops.

Pistachio macarons, oysters, and steak-frîtes in Paris

A crossroads for France’s regional produce and flavors, Paris does not have a ‘local’ cuisine – rather, a flurry of notable trends and chefs guaranteed to excite taste buds. Contemporary neo bistros run by young talented chefs (reserve a table at hallowed Septime or eco-conscious Les Résistants in the food-edgy 10e) promise exciting dining.  

Gourmet street food is constantly evolving, as is the patisserie scene where experimental pastry chefs unveil dazzling new collections of macarons, Paris-Brest, and éclairs each season. For Parisians, eating and drinking go together like cheese and wine: Follow suit in a bar à vin (wine bar) or cocktail bar pairing drinks with shared plates (spend an evening at Le Mary Céleste and you’ll never look back).

Carbonara, tripe, and deep-fried artichokes in Rome

Dining in Rome is becoming increasingly sophisticated, but local, seasonal ingredients remain the norm in Roman cuisine – as it has been for millennia. Cheaper cuts of meat, like guanciale (pig’s cheek), and greens gathered wild from fields star in local dishes: Carciofo alla giudia (a locally-grown artichoke flower, deep-fried and presented intact) served in a timeless trattoria in down-to-earth Trastevere or Testaccio is a highlight. 

Rome is also the place to experience Real McCoy carbonara (pasta with guanciale, egg, and salty pecorino romano; sheep's milk cheese) – the eponymous dish hails from here. The Museo della Cucina , opening in May 2022, is the new golden ticket to learning about Italian and Roman cuisine through the ages.

The winner: For the sweet-toothed, Paris. For its own home-grown cuisine, Rome. Failing that, it’s another tie.

Which capital sports the best day trips?

Both capitals offer urban escapes by train to greener, less busy pastures.

Flee Paris for royal gardens and resplendent French chateaux

Such is its awe-inspiring majesty that a jaunt to Château de Versailles – among Europe’s most dazzling palaces – is worth considering however long you are in Paris. In Spring Impressionism aficionados won’t be able to resist the village of Giverny when the gardens Claude Monet so famously painted at his countryside cottage are in full bloom. Other memorable day trips by train include the fairytale Château de Chantilly , on a forested hunting estate, and Château de Fontainebleau in a pristine forest thick with pretty footpaths, biking trails, and picnic spots. 

Break from ancient Rome with medieval villages and Renaissance villas

No Roman will really understand why you wish to leave their city – for good reason given its heavyweight ancient sights pack such a punch. Should the Roman metropolis threaten to overwhelm, the medieval cliff-top town of Orvieto with Gothic cathedral or foodie Castelli Romani provide classic provincial escapes by train. Alternatively, a bus-train combo unveils two World Heritage villas in Renaissance rich Tivoli . Those staying in Rome longer than a few days can consider big-hitters Florence , Naples , and Pompeii – all manageable in a (long) day by (pricier) high-speed train from the capital.

The winner: Paris. Even if you’re only in town for a couple of days, some of its trips are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Lower-key Roman day trips suit those lingering for a week or more.

An adorable blond toddler girl plays with fallen autumn leaves near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

For bambini or les enfants in tow, which is the better match?

Italians are famed for welcoming bambini with open arms, and pasta, pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), and gelato were all clearly created with kid-clad parents in mind – as were crepes in Paris, smothered in warm chocolate spread, and Berthillon ice-cream . Battle’s on.

Play the Parisian creative in fun museums and parks

The city has exceptional science, natural history and art museums ( Cité des Sciences , Galerie des Enfants , Palais de Tokyo ) suitable for children of all ages and many organize hands-on workshops. Chasing sailboats on a lake or watching puppet shows in Jardin du Luxembourg is the epitome of old-fashioned fun, and equestrian shows at Château de Versailles really are the stuff of fairytales.

With the exception of lofty Montmartre , Paris is flat and straightforward to navigate with a pushchair or hand-holding tot. Wide smooth quays along the River Seine and Canal St-Martin provide hours of outdoor fun, as does the city’s rich picking of parks . Buses provide a practical alternative to the staircase-ridden metro, and Paris’ efficient tourist office really is helpful. Summer days are cooler in Paris than in scorching, sun-blazed Rome.

Engage older kids in an interactive history lesson

Despite its colossal history, Rome doesn’t have to be a high-brow destination. Grisly tales of bloodthirsty gladiators and horribly hungry lions grab the imagination of older children at the Colosseum (explore underground too), and virtual-reality headsets at Terme di Caracalla recreate Roman bath life. Most over 10s find the tunnels and burial chambers at the catacombs on Via Appia Antica absolutely thrilling (for added fun, rent bikes): Ditto for those spooky, human-bone constructions in Convento dei Capuccini .

Families visiting with younger children might struggle. Cobbled streets and pot-holed pavements make getting around with a pushchair challenging, and Rome’s public transport is notorious for its patchy coverage and inefficiency. Navigating the centro storico (historic center) and Vatican Museums require walking long distances. For other neighborhoods, remember: Rome was built on seven, very hilly, hills. 

The winner: On a very practical level, family-friendly Paris trumps Rome ­­­–  even when you remove Disneyland Paris and Parc Astérix from the picture.

Which is cheaper – Paris or Rome?

In both cities meticulous advance planning can cut costs and free monuments, museums, churches, and parks are plentiful.

Live like a Parisian with a picnic in parks

Favor a self-catering apartment or studio over a hotel and consider carefully which arrondissement to stay in – the trendy 10e arrondissement is good-value. Zip around the city cheaply on foot or two wheels to minimize both euro and carbon count, and build your itinerary around the multitude of free things to see and do . 

Reduce dining costs by shopping for crusty baguettes, cheese, artisan saucisson and seasonal fruit at the neighborhood marché ( Marché Bastille and chef fave Marche Aligré are irresistible) to munch in a park – for lunch or over aperitifs at sundown (follow locals to waterside Canal St-Martin or Parc des Buttes Chaumont ).

Join Romans in the queue for superlative street food

Hotel accommodation is less expensive than Paris – expect to pay from €100 (US$110) a night for double compared to around €140 ($US155) in Paris – and it’s still possible to find barebone doubles with shared bathrooms (nonexistent these days in the French capital) for those visiting Rome on a tight budget . 

If you stick to moderately priced trattorie away from the Centro Storico, dining out remains affordable and Rome has some of the world’s best street food, kicking off with exceptional pizza slices out from hole-in-the-wall pizza joints.

The winner: Rome. Ultimately, two of your biggest expenses – accommodation and dining out – are typically pricier in Paris.

You might also like: Discover the Louvre's hidden treasure in this lesser-visited wing The 12 best parks in Rome Rome vs Florence: how to choose the perfect Italian city for you

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Wandering our World

Your Journey Begins Here

  • by Wandering our World
  • Posted on December 26, 2022

Paris vs Rome: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

Last updated on December 26, 2022 by Wandering our World

P aris and Rome are two of the most famous European cities on the entire continent, and dream destinations due to their culture, architecture, cuisine and beauty.

People all around the world have seen Paris and Rome portrayed in movies and television shows. But few actually get a chance to experience the beauty and history of these two cities for themselves.

If you could choose one of these cities to visit, which one would you choose? That’s difficult for many people to answer because both cities offer fantastic wine, food, history, and tourist attractions. However we know b oth Paris and Rome we l l, and there are some significant differences between these iconic cities.

For example, Paris may be the better choice if you’re going to Europe with your partner, looking for nighttime activities, and want to dine outside and enjoy French cafe culture. But if you want to do a lot of sightseeing of famous landmarks, Roman buildings, museums and other monuments, then Rome may be the better choice.

If y ou’re lucky en ough t o be thinking ab out a trip t o either city, but can’t decide which one then you’re in the right place!

Below we use our knowledge of both to compare Paris and Rome, looking at which is better for foodies, which has better sightseeing, nightlife, weather and more.

  • Which Is Better For Sightseeing
  • Which Has Better & More Diverse Food Choices
  • Which Has Better Nightlife Activities
  • Which Is Cheaper
  • Which Has Better Weather
  • Which Is The Better Choice

Paris vs Rome infographic

Which Is Better For Sightseeing?

Paris and Rome have lovely sights to see. Most people are familiar with the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It is an iconic landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of France. If you travel up this 81-story structure, you have breathtaking views of the city from afar, and some of the best photo ops in Europe.

Paris itself has a laidback atmosphere. When in the city we love to visit the local neighborhood cafes, take walks down the different neighborhoods and church courtyards, and view some of the most valuable art collections in the world at the city’s museums.

The best museums are the Museum of Modern Art , Musee d’Orsey , Louvre Museum , and Centre Pompidou .

It’s a city which is perfect for exploring and enjoying at a relaxed pace, and a city which truly does have a romantic feel to it – arguably more so than Rome.

Eiffel Tower or Tour Eiffel aerial view, is a wrought iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France

Rome is another city with some of the rarest and most valuable art in the world. But you don’t necessarily have to visit museums to see it.

Instead, you can visit Vatican City to find ancient and historical artwork from famous artists like Michelangelo. Check out St. Peter’s Square and St. Peter’s Basilica to see the best work of Michelangelo. And if you want to see famous Roman artefacts, we recommend the Etruscan Museum and the Museum of Secular Art .

Besides Vatican City and the Catholic Church origins of Rome, you can also enjoy the many wonderful historical Roman landmarks in the city. These 2000-year-old structures include the Pantheon , the Colosseum , the Arch of Constantine , and the Roman Forum .

It is a surreal experience to step foot into these ancient structures because they are kept s o we l l preserved in the middle of a busy city. They almost make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time when you’re there. It’s a city where everywhere you turn there feels like something to see and look at.

When it comes to sightseeing, the winner would have to be Rome. Although Paris has the Eiffel Tower and Louve, you can see many more impressive sights in Rome. Whilst Paris is less impressive for sightseeing it is more impressive for spending quality time with your loved one.

Winner: Rome

View of Colosseum in Rome and morning sun, Italy, Europe.

Which Has Better & More Diverse Food Choices?

Every tourist wants to eat tasty food when visiting a European city. You certainly don’t want to go grocery shopping during your visit to a historic capital!

When people think of Rome, many assume it has the best food choices because it is in Italy. Now, there’s no doubt you could probably find some of the best pizza and pasta you’ve ever had in your life at restaurants in Rome. Some of the Rome-based restaurants we recommend for delicious pizza and homestyle Italian cuisine are La Pratolina , Seu Pizza Illuminati , Pizzarium , Piccolo Buco and Trapizzino .

However unfortunately, Rome does not have a lot of cultural or ethnic diversity in its food choices. The primary ethnic food in Rome is, of course, Italian cuisine. So if you love all food that is Italian, then you will find the food in Rome to be to your liking.

A summer  dinner .Pasta , pizza  and homemade food arrangement  in a restaurant  Rome   .Tasty and authentic Italian food.

In addition, Paris has a café culture where people are encouraged to eat and drink outside. It makes the whole dining experience more pleasant and stylish. So, not only do you get to enjoy delicious and diverse food in Paris, but you also get more opportunities to dine outside too – just as the locals do.

Of course, the fun of traveling is to enjoy a diverse set of cultures. Paris has a lot more cultural and ethnic diversity in terms of its people and restaurants. You’ll see several restaurants with French, Vietnamese, Caribbean, Tibetan, Moroccan, and West Indies cuisine selections.

For us, the cuisine champion would have to be Paris. You’ll get to experience a broader range of food in Paris while enjoying an ideal setting for dining too.

Winner: Paris

Two Parisian women drinking coffee together in an outdoor cafe with wisteria in full bloom

Which Has Better Nightlife Activities?

We think Paris wins when it comes to nightlife activities, and that’s another reason why Paris is ideal for couples.

Jazz clubs are a great hangout spot. You get to eat, drink, dance, and listen to talented musicians and singers. You can also stay out drinking and partying throughout all hours of the night. Most bars and restaurants are open all night, so you don’t have to worry about closing times until the sun comes up the next day!

The nightlife activities of Paris don’t end there. You can take a Seine river cruise at night and admire the vibrant city lights all around you. And if you happen to be near the Eiffel Tower, you can watch the extraordinary light show where the entire tower lights up with different colored lights.

But if you’re more of an adventurer, take a trip down to the Paris Catacombs and prepare to be thrilled and horrified at the same time. Or go see a cabaret show at the famous Moulin Rouge .

The Place du Tertre with tables of cafe and the Sacre-Coeur in the morning, quarter Montmartre in Paris, France

As for Rome, you can do the same things at night that you can do during the day. For example, you could take a night tour of famous landmarks like the Colosseum or the Piazza Navona.

These sites have plenty of lights set up to make the viewing experience easier at night.  But why not just see them during the day when there is more light?

Sure, you can walk around and eat at restaurants in Rome at night, but the city tends t o not have the same party atmosphere as Paris. So if you’d rather have nighttime excitement, then choose Paris over Rome.

Beautiful sunset on the city of Rome in evening

Which Is Cheaper?

Everyone wants to be frugal about travel expenses because a trip to any major European capital city will not be cheap.

The airfare costs to fly from the United States to Paris or Rome will be roughly the same price because they’re both major European cities overseas. However, the difference in travel expenses comes when choosing hostel or hotel room accommodation. 

You’ll find that Rome has slightly cheaper hostel and hotel room rates. In Rome, the average cost of a hostel or hotel to accommodate one person is €67. The same accommodations in Paris cost €121.

And if you want a double room to accommodate two people, the average cost is €134 in Rome and €242 in Paris. So, you can expect to pay double the money for lodging in Paris versus Rome.

Since Paris is a better city for couples to visit, travelers may end up paying more there. On the other hand, Rome is an ideal city to visit for both couples and solo travelers if on a budget.

Arc de Triomphe from the sky, Paris

Which Has Better Weather?

Rome gets some pretty hot and humid summer months. It also doesn’t help that summer is when most people travel to Rome. So, you can expect larger crowds of people during this season.

You could attempt to visit Rome during the winter, but you’ll have to contend with the cold, rain, and crowds. Therefore, the best time to visit Rome is during the spring or autumn months. The temperatures are cooler, and there are fewer crowds.

Paris has a lot of outdoor activities and accommodations for tourists because of its café culture. So it’s preferable to have suitable weather conditions when visiting Paris or else you will be uncomfortable the entire time as this is a city where you really want to be outside.

You will only really find decent weather in the summer months between June and September though. The rest of the year can be rainy and chilly.

One city doesn’t really have better weather than the other city. It all depends on which time of the year you visit. Would you rather visit Rome in the autumn or Paris in the summer? That is the choice we think you’d have to make if you want to have the best weather conditions possible during your trip.

Winner: Draw

St. Peter's cathedral over bridge and river with flowers in Rome, Italy

Paris Or Rome: Which Is The Better Choice?

Paris is the City of Lights and the City of Romance. Its food, culture, fashion, and entertainment make it attractive to international tourists who appreciate these things.

There are also many diverse neighborhoods in Paris, which could give you an incentive to walk around and explore them for fun.

Paris is definitely the better choice if you’re going to Europe with your partner or spouse, looking for nighttime activities, and want to dine outside and enjoy French cafe culture.

Rome is the biggest city in Italy. It is best known for its historical landmarks associated with the Roman Empire, such as the Colosseum. It is the central location in Europe for religion and historic power.

If you want to do a lot of sightseeing of famous Roman landmarks, buildings and other monuments, you might enjoy yourself better in Rome. Of course, the food and wine are good in Rome too.

Recommended For Your Trip To Paris Or Rome

places to visit between paris and rome

Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.

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Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe. View all posts by Wandering our World

How to Travel From Rome to Paris by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

places to visit between paris and rome

yarwood / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

With Paris and Rome being two of Europe's most famous capital cities, they classify as essential pit stops on many tourists' Eurotrip itineraries. They are 1107 kilometers (688 miles) apart, but the driving distance is more like 1,420 kilometers (880 miles). Traveling by car takes more than 13 hours, so most people opt for a quick, two-hour flight instead. Otherwise, there are buses and trains that run the route regularly.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Rome to Paris? 

The cheapest bus ticket is actually the same price as the cheapest flight; however, cheap flights are tougher to come by, especially during the high season. Whereas flight prices soar in the summertime, bus tickets can always be found for as little as $59 if you book them far enough in advance (up to six months—the sooner you book, the better). FlixBus departs from Rome Tiburtina and Rome Anagnina several times per day, but here's the catch: The ride takes 20 hours at best. A flight, on the other hand, takes just over two hours.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Rome to Paris? 

The fastest way to travel from Rome to Paris is undoubtedly by plane. Flights depart from any of Paris' three airports — Roissy-Charles de Gaulle (the busiest), Orly, and Beauvais-Tillé Airport—and arrive either at Fiumicino or Ciampino in Rome. According to Skyscanner , there are nearly 150 flights per week connecting these two cities, offered by international carriers like Alitalia and Air France and low-cost regional airlines such as Easyjet and Ryanair. Flights to Beauvais Airport—home of the budget carriers—tend to be cheaper, but because it's located in the far outskirts of Paris, you should plan to spend about an hour getting to the city center. Depending on which time of the year you go and how far in advance you book, you're looking at $50 to $250 for a plane ticket.

How Long Does It Take to Drive? 

Even in the best conditions, it takes about 14 hours to drive from Rome to Paris. The benefit of driving is that you can make a spectacular road trip of it, stopping by Florence , Bologna , Milan , and Geneva , Switzerland, along the way. The downfalls are, of course, the time it takes as well as all the tolls you'll have to pay. According to ViaMichelin , the most direct route (The Autostrada A1, which is the oldest in Italy, to the A6, France's "Motorway of the Sun") will likely wind up costing you a total of nearly $200 in tolls.

How Long Is the Train Ride? 

You can get to Paris from Rome in 11 hours by train, but the average duration is more like 13 hours, 30 minutes, according to Rail Europe . This route is serviced by a high-speed TGV train and the Italian Frecciarossa, which goes about half the speed of the TGV. Trains depart from Roma Termini and arrive at Paris Gare de Lyon , both of which are walkable from the city centers. Tickets start at $115.

You can also replace a night in a hotel with a stay on one of the overnight trains. It tends to cost slightly more and, if you're a solo traveler who doesn't want to spend extra on a private sleeper, you might be bunking with a few strangers, but it's a great way to save money and potentially make some friends.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Paris? 

If you plan to fly, then the best time to travel to Paris from Rome is May or October, on either side of the busy—i.e. expensive—summer tourist season. During these months, flight prices start at $59 instead of $75 (June) or $100 (August).

Bus tickets can be snagged for cheap any time of the year, but you must book them as early as possible. You're more likely to get a deal if you travel during off-peak times (the earliest or latest departures versus mid-day), too. Trainline also recommends that you book your train travel as early as possible and avoid peak times (6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays).

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Paris? 

U.S. passport holders are allowed to visit France for tourist or business purposes for up to 90 days without a visa.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport? 

If you plan to fly into Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport, the easiest way to get into the city center will be by the RER train, which departs every 10 to 20 minutes from terminals 1 and 2 and takes about 35 minutes to get to the center. It's the fastest and the cheapest public transportation option , with single-journey tickets costing about $12. However, the Roissybus—which costs slightly more—is also an option. It takes an hour to get into the center. If you're flying into Orly, rather, you can take the RER train (lines B or C) for about $13 or the Orlybus for $10.

What Is There to Do in Paris? 

Paris, France, is simply brimming with art, culture, and world-famous cuisine. You can kick off your trip by visiting its renowned historical landmarks and museums, including the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre , Notre Dame , and the Arc de Triomphe , but if you're not one for crowds, then you might rather wander about the more low-key market streets to see what kind of pastries and cheeses can be found. The hilltop village of Montmartre is ridiculously charming and though it's a bit of a jaunt from the city center (and it continues to gain more tourist momentum year after year), it's a true taste of old-world Paris not to be missed.

Rome and Paris are 688 miles (1107 kilometers) apart.

The flight is only two hours and 15 minutes, making it the fastest mode of travel.

Yes, the train takes anywhere from 11 to 13 hours. Trains depart from Roma Termini and arrive at Paris Gare de Lyon.

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Paris Guide: Planning Your Trip

View of the Tiber and St. Peter's Basilica at sunset, Rome, Italy

Best of Rome and Paris Itinerary

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, rome – first impressions in the heart of ancient rome.

As you land in Rome, you will find so many impressions right within footsteps of your hotel. Sounds fill the air as the church bells echo above the hum of footsteps and laughter. Aromas such as coffee drifting from a terrace and the sultry heat of a sunbaked boulevard. Sights as well of course, memoirs to ancient Rome all around, suggestive of a time when life was different to now. You will be greeted at the airport and transferred through the city traffic to your hotel, which is in a mostly pedestrianized part of Rome as streets are too old and too narrow for modern vehicles here. Rome is all about your impressions meeting reality, and today is a chance to soak them all up as you feast all your senses into the Eternal City.

What's Included:

Rome – Caravaggio Private Art Tour and the Colosseum Through the Ages

Rome is all about the lens you use. Walk the same streets twice, and you will uncover something different depending on the lens you use. Today it is Caravaggio, with his artistry woven into the city’s mysteries. Start at Palazzo Barberini where Judith Beheading Holofernes is the first of the masterpieces entrenched in Italian art history. Continue on foot, through neighborhoods of enchantment to Santa Maria del Popolo, where The Martyrdom of Saint Peter stretches out before your eyes. Villa Borghese has a superb collection of lesser-known works, and it is a tour that takes you into Rome’s hidden places to give you a different take on some of the streets you will have walked yesterday.

Return to the hotel for before a tour of the Colosseum later in the afternoon. With special glasses on, you can stand in this world wonder and get an idea of how it changed through the ages. Remove the glasses, and you walk across the ancient floor, up some stairs and beyond the rope on the third tier for a chance to see parts of the Colosseum without crowds. This is Rome’s most iconic landmark, and with your private guide, you will separate myth and fiction as much of this wonder has been created by folklore. But while there may be amphitheaters and Roman structures around the world, none are on the scale and detail of this.

Rome – Hidden Gems of Rome in a Vintage Fiat 500

An old Fiat 500 will be your iconic vehicle to settle into the driving seat and head off, convoy-style, through the streets of Rome, the car becoming part of a fabulous riot of color and history. Stop in a neighborhood for coffee as you drive past legends from the past, and then grab some food at a market that overflows with fresh aromas. Your vehicle is small and nimble enough to navigate Rome’s old neighborhoods, and by traveling in a convoy, you will miss a lot of the traffic problems associated with Italy’s capital. Spend four hours driving and stopping at your leisure as you get to know the Eternal City and come to understand how it has built out around the heart of Empire. The rest of the day is free for some time on your own to experience every part of Rome.

Rome – Trastevere Food Walking Tour and Crypts and Catacombs

Food is another wonderful lens from which to discover Rome, particularly the old neighborhood of Trastevere. Start in a beautiful market and go in search of the world’s finest artichokes, always found among other delicacies. Visit a bistro, and your wine is paired with little treats from all around the city. Walk through Trastevere and inhale the smells, following them to a little coffee spot and maritozzo, Rome’s cream-filled buns. It will be a tour for eating and experimenting, but also one for the seeing parts of the city that others might miss. Along the way, you can admire decaying townhouses, cobbled streets overflowing with color and surprise around every corner with grand squares unfiltered by time. And at some point, you will come across one of the many millennia-old churches that are gilded in gold and excess.

There will be no need for lunch after this tour as you will have been nibbling for hours, so in the afternoon, you can disappear beneath the ground and into haunting catacombs and crypts. More than 2,000 years of bones are piled up here, found in great chambers of musty smells. Stories come with these bones, narrated amid the aromas of history. No other city has old catacombs on such a vast scale, and exploring them will give you a keen sense of how ancient Rome really is. The evening will be free, and there are so many superb restaurants to try across the city, and your guide will be able to provide very trusted recommendations based on your tastes.

Rome – Ostia Antica and Old City Wonders

Wake to spend your morning in an ancient seaside village with amphitheaters and marketplaces bringing you into antiquity. As a salty sea breeze ruffles past your ears, you can find baths, temples, streets and so many other places untouched by time. While Ancient Rome now stands amid a modern cosmopolitan city, Ostia Antica stands proudly alone, so visiting this seaside village is a great contrast to the temples and ancient sights that are close to your hotel. You will be back in the heart of Rome by mid-afternoon, and the rest of the day will give you a chance to complete your own wish list of Rome experiences. That could be taking photos by the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, finding a quiet square for watching the world or simply walking the streets to 2,000-year-old monuments.

Paris – Relaxing Along the Seine

Fly from capital to capital, straight into the heart of another majestic city. Transfer to your hotel along the River Seine and choose which side to explore. On one bank, you will see the legendary sights with beautiful pieces of history that excite the eyes. Move to the other bank to find small neighborhoods and places to explore without a map. Look one way down the Seine, and you will see the Eiffel Tower, an icon that was hated when first built, its incongruence with other architecture clear to see. Look out the other way to cafes and street corners to find so many places where you could hang around for an hour and watch Paris roll by. The day is left free so that you can sink your feet into the city and relax into the artisanal rhythm.

Paris – Exploring the Food of Parisian Neighborhoods

Paris isthecity for foodies, and it is also a city that can turn anyone into a foodie with so many amazing delicacies on every backstreet. Paris is also a city that can be understood through its food, as shown on today’s tour of Parisian neighborhoods. Start at a market, sampling and celebrating produce from across the country, and then continue to a chocolatier in Saint-Germain for tasty morsels and macaroons to try. Pair cheeses with wines from across France, and enjoy a variety of sausages from across the country. With food as a lens, you have a reason to travel down Parisian backstreets as well, where there is so much that entertains. You’ll be eating for hours, enough to keep you full into the evening, where one of Paris’s famous restaurants could provide a contrast to the day’s tour.

Paris – Best of Paris Private Art Tour

There is so much more to Paris’s art scene than the Louvre and Mona Lisa. That famous portrait is behind glass and usually behind a crowd of hundreds with too muchnoisefor you to get a real feel for its beauty. But there are other rooms in the Louvre that hardly see any visitors, where grand masterpieces cover entire walls. Musee d’Orsay is also a real treat for art lovers, taking you on a journey through so many legendary painters, many of whom once lived in Paris’s bohemian Montmartre suburb. But why restrict yourself to two, in a city with many dozens of galleries?

You will be guided by an art historian, a Parisian that will know the ins and outs of the city’s art scene. Your tour will be customized, and you will visit at least one of the Louvre and Musee d’Orsay as these galleries provide a backdrop and overview to art through the ages, in France and elsewhere in Europe. The other one or two galleries chosen will be based on your interests, and usually includes a private gallery. These stops will take you into the details and allow you to explore a specific thread from Paris’s world-famous art scene. It will be a relaxed tour, informative but laid-back and not too serious, all about admiring the masterpieces rather than getting hung up on historical squabbles around which style is the truer art.

Paris – A Day Out in Fontainebleau

Versailles is the classic day tour from Paris, and there is no doubting the wonder. You might even choose to go there tomorrow, as the challenge with Versailles has always been the crowds – even by skipping lines it is hard to appreciate all the glory. Chateau de Fontainebleau is also a World Heritage Site and former home of royalty, yet it is surprisingly missed by most. Evocative and enchanting, the chateau takes you through the opulence of yesteryear, oil canvases covering the walls and chandeliers dangling down. On a day tour, you can travel by train to Fontainebleau and head straight to the chateau with your local guide illuminating flashy corridors and rooms.

From this grandeur, you will find another slice of tradition, taking a walk through the thrice-weekly market on Fontainebleu’s square. Farmers come from across the region to sell here, beneath the gaze of the old church. You can have lunch in the town square, the weather hopefully allowing you to be outside on the market-side. For the afternoon, you have France’s largest forest, a lovely place to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy some serenity away from the city. It is an hour back to Paris and another night in the City of Lights, perhaps fine dining down the Champs-Elysee, maybe finding a four-table restaurant tucked away down a cobbled street.

Paris – Free Day in Paris

Paris is packed with iconic sights and experiences, everything from famous designer stores to back-street bakeries. This day is left free so that you can explore the Paris of your own imagination. Shopping, eating, wandering around small neighborhoods or escaping to sights beyond Paris. You may choose to rest and relax with a coffee and a croissant in view of the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe. You can also walk down the River Seine, listening to street musicians by the bridges, using the water to navigate Paris’s old glories. This being Paris, there will be countless options for a one last vacation dinner, as Paris can always take visitors on a new culinary journey.

Paris – Departure

After five days in Rome and five in Paris, it will be time to go home.  Your transfer to the airport is included after one last leisurely breakfast.

Trip Highlights

  • Walk the cobbled streets of Trastevere to explore the markets and the Italian bars that hide down alleyways
  • Spend a day in Fontainebleau, where a chateau and forest stand majestically just outside Paris
  • Disappear beneath the ground to discover Rome’s crypts and catacombs
  • Take an unfiltered private tour through Paris’s art scene to see both the famous paintings and the lesser-known galleries
  • Drive around Rome in a vintage Fiat 500, a timeless way to see the sights
  • Immerse yourself in Parisian food with a neighborhood walking tour that will include bistros, markets and confectionaries
  • Explore ancient Rome at Ostia Antica and go behind the ropes with exclusive access to unseen parts of the Colosseum
  • Wander along the River Seine and soak up the Parisian dining scene
  • Discover the world of Caravaggio on a private Rome art tour
  • Stay in the heart of famous cities, just footsteps away from some of the world’s most recognizable icons

Detailed Description

Icons likely ignite your imagination when you think of Paris and Rome, and there are too many to mention as they range from that famous tower along the Seine to places of ancient gladiatorial conflict. These are two of the world’s most visited cities, and there is a fairly standard route that rushes between the famous attractions. This handcrafted tour will take a different approach as your centrally located hotels will enable you to visit any of the major icons you deem unmissable, but there will then be a selection of tours that unravels the intimate and the authentic. It is hard to go entirely off the beaten path in such renowned cities, but you can undoubtedly escape to places loved by the locals for something much more unique.

You will spend five nights in each city, and five-star boutique hotels have been chosen both for their services and for their locations, so that you will be just footsteps from the icons. Most of your tours will be private and led by insiders who want to share their city with the curious. There will be something different every day, ranging from art to chocolatiers and catacombs, plus one day trip away where you can breathe the country air beyond the cities. Paris and Rome are cities that can take months to explore completely, but with five days, you can uncover some mysteries, discover the styles of contrasting neighborhoods, and feel the atmosphere of places known mostly just by the locals.

Start with your hotel in the heart of ancient Rome, and a Caravaggio art tour will take you straight into offbeat places the very next morning.  This will be followed by the most unmissable of the city’s icons, the Colosseum, and you will step beyond the ropes to see parts of the world wonder unfettered by crowds. Drive around Rome the following day in a vintage FIAT 500, and your vehicle will give you a complete overview of the city. Move next to Trastevere and other nearby neighborhoods for a foodie walking tour before you go underground to the crypts and catacombs. Spend the following day on the seaside as ancient Ostia Antica is a place that evokes the secrets of past centuries.

And then it is off to Paris, where you will stay alongside the River Seine and will have time to discover those parts of the city you might have always imagined. Food is a great lens from which to explore Parisian neighborhoods the next day, while a customized art tour can take you in many directions the following. Fontainebleau is just an hour south of the city, a magnificent forest and chateau part of the experience, a traditional food market the other. That leaves a free day to go shopping and searching for the postcards, or just to wander the Seine and drink coffee on terraces. Just like in Rome, there will be such beauty to the quiet moments, when you watch the world go by amid millennia of history and heritage.

Starting Price

$3,933  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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View of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

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Paris to Rome Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Paris and then finish in Rome. Trips from Paris to Rome are most popular in May, with the most tours doing this route then.

12 Paris to Rome tour packages with 30 reviews

Joyful Treasures Tour

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Joyful Treasures

All hotels were very good. The sights we saw were good. The bus had no bathroom. The guides were average. They were often unclear with their instructions, for example they say meet in the lobby at 8am, but no one is there and people are outside getting on the bus. I did like the interesting history one guide gave.

Paris to Rome: Picnics & Pizza Tour

Paris to Rome: Picnics & Pizza

Jewels of Europe Tour

Jewels of Europe

Overall, we really enjoyed our tour with Tour Radar. However, we signed up months in advance for our tour and received an itinerary. When we arrived at our first hotel (Novotel in Paris), after not having slept in 24 hours, we were not able to check into our room (which had no air conditioning) for eight hours. We were also treated horribly by the hotel staff. Then, although our itinerary showed our tour as beginning on the evening of our arrival, no one showed up that night from Europomundo, and no informational meeting was provided that night (as our itinerary indicated). We found out the next day that the itinerary for the tour had been changed (with no notice given to us) and that many events had been deleted. The next day, the guide informed us that we did not have time for our Louvre museum tour (for which we had purchased tickets months in advance), and she refunded our tickets without asking us. Then we stood in line for individual tickets the next day but they were sold out. We complained to the tour guide, which gave us a reputation for being “high maintenance” clients with the other guides. We were never informed that very few of the other tourists would be American (nearly all were Indian or spoke Spanish only). Also, we had six different tour guides, rode seven or eight different tour buses, and changed tour groups around eight times. It would have been helpful if we had been informed about this in advance and had received a “what to expect on your tour” packet in advance of our tour. On a positive note, Gabby was a fantastic tour guide. We highly recommend her! Angelos was pretty good too.

Road to Rome (Classic, Start Paris, 12 Days) Tour

  • Sightseeing

Road to Rome (Classic, Start Paris, 12 Days)

Paris, Switzerland and Italy Escapade Tour

Paris, Switzerland and Italy Escapade

Paris & South of Italy Tour

Paris & South of Italy

Paris & Rome: Magical Duo Tour

Paris & Rome: Magical Duo

Mediterranean Journey (Classic, Start Paris, 16 Days) Tour

Mediterranean Journey (Classic, Start Paris, 16 Days)

Paris, Swiss and Italy trip Tour

Paris, Swiss and Italy trip

JOURNEY TO THE TOP Tour

JOURNEY TO THE TOP

Road to Rome (Small Groups, Start Paris, 12 Days) Tour

Road to Rome (Small Groups, Start Paris, 12 Days)

Mediterranean Journey (Small Groups, Start Paris, 16 Days) Tour

Mediterranean Journey (Small Groups, Start Paris, 16 Days)

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International Versions

  • Deutsch: Rundreisen von Paris nach Rom
  • Français: Voyages de Paris à Rome
  • Español: París a Roma Viajes
  • Nederlands: Van Parijs naar Rome Reizen en Tours

front facade of the trevi fountain, one of the best places to visit in rome in 2 days

Paris vs Rome: Which Iconic City is Right for You?

Paris vs Rome: it’s quite the task to decide which of these two iconic cities to visit!

Paris and Rome both boast world-class sights, incredible food, tasty wine, epic history, and enough things to do to keep you busy and enchanted for months on end.

While we strongly believe that you can’t truly make a wrong choice with this one, picking either Rome or Paris above the other is not an easy task.

Looking for some guidance?

Here are the criteria we suggest using to make the final call on traveling to Paris or Rome.

3 Days in Paris Itinerary: Eiffel Tower from Trocadero Gardens

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Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Rome

Still having trouble deciding between paris and rome, okay, but seriously, which one do you like better, choose paris to…, … experience some of the best art in the world..

The Louvre. Musee d’Orsay.

We all know those names: they are the home of some of the most incredible art in the world, and they’re located a gorgeous 20-minute walk from each other in Paris (the walk will take you along and across the Seine–not a bad way to spend 20 minutes).

These two museums also barely even scratch the surface of the art in Paris: there are dozens of art museums in the city, ranging from the small and quirky to the modern to the classic.

Any art lover could easily get lost for months in Paris!

Paris vs Rome: The Louvre

… try your hand at French.

While we tend to believe that the whole “French people are rude” stereotype is massively overblown (yes, even in Paris), there’s no denying that Parisians would like you to at least attempt to stumble your way through some basic greetings and restaurant French while you’re in their city.

Comparing Paris vs Rome on this point, the Romans appreciate attempts at Italian, sure, but they also likely won’t care if you stick to pantomiming and basic English to get around.

… be somewhere it’s easier to get around.

Paris may be a large city, but it boasts one of the densest metro systems in the world.

Getting between neighborhoods may occasionally require a ride or two, but nowhere you want to reach as a tourist will be difficult to access (or require suffering through Paris’ infamous traffic in a car ride, with the possible exception of getting to and from the airport).

Paris Itinerary 3 Days: Getting Around Paris

… walk between many sights.

Paris’ best sights are typically clustered together: head to one major sight to start your day, and with a little planning, there’s a good chance you won’t need to hop on a metro again for the rest of the day.

That’s just as well, because wandering through Paris to get to each destination is half the fun anyway: each arrondissement and neighborhood  boasts its own flavor, from the Latin Quarter to Montmartre and beyond, and there will be plenty of beauty (and pastry shops) to admire along the way.

… day trip to a Chateau.

If your idea of the perfect day trip out of the city is strolling through the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles or admiring the water lilies in Monet’s gardens at Giverny, Paris is the perfect city break for you.

… admire an iconic skyline from all angles.

Paris’ skyline, complete with the Eiffel Tower erupting from the center, is one of the most iconic in the world–and luckily for those visiting Paris, it can be admired from about a million and one angles.

From iconic spots like the top of Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe to more unusual points like the terrace of Galeries Lafayette department store, those epic views are available all over Paris (and at all price points, too!).

3 Days in Paris Itinerary: View from Notre Dame

Where To Stay in Paris

One of the best things about traveling in Paris is that the metro network is so dense, and the highlights of the city so spread out, that you can stay just about anywhere within walking distance of a metro station and be in a fine location. 

Definitely stay within Paris’ 20 arrondissements–the suburbs can be less connected and sometimes less safe–but aside from that, there’s lots of flexibility.

Budget travelers will potentially find good deals further from the center (Montmartre is a great choice, just be sure to Google Street view the hotel to make sure you’re not on a street with lots of sex shops or clubs), and luxury seekers can find plenty of options in the center of town.

If you’re hoping to save a bit of money on lodging on your trip to Paris, the number one thing you can do is schedule your visit outside of the summer high season–hotel prices often get slashed in the winter.

Also: unless you’re planning on splurging on a very luxurious hotel, plan on opening the door to a much smaller hotel room than you’re likely used to–consider it a quirk of Paris, and an excellent excuse to cuddle closer to your beloved!

3 Day Paris Itinerary: Arc de Triomphe

Hotel Bellevue Montmartre  — We chose to base ourselves in Montmartre for one of our more budget-friendly trips to Paris, and were completely satisfied with our choice!

The room itself was clean and unremarkable, but the real benefit of Hotel Bellevue Montmartre (other than the price tag) is what you find when you step outside the door: though the hotel is set on a quiet street, it’s a mere 5-minute walk from Sacre Coeur and a 10-minute walk from a metro that is ready and willing to whisk you away to anywhere you wish to go in Paris, and you can’t ask for a better location for the price.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Bellevue Montmartre!

Le Clos Medicis  — Located on a beautiful, quiet street just a 5-minute walk from the Pantheon and Luxembourg Gardens (plus a metro stop that connects directly to the RER B line), Le Clos Medicis is an excellent midrange hotel option in the perfect Paris location.

While the rooms are the typical small rooms of Paris, the hotel was extremely comfortable, the customer service lovely, and did I mention the location? Being so well-located in Paris has spoiled us for future trips.

One small quirk? They don’t allow any food in the rooms. It wasn’t a big deal for us, but if you’re planning on buying any groceries or takeout during your Paris honeymoon, this might not be the hotel for you.

Check rates & book your stay at Le Clos Medicis!

Relais Christine — For opulent luxury in the heart of the city, consider a stay at Relais Christine for your trip to Paris!

Located in a 17th-century mansion just a short walk away from Notre Dame and boasting beautiful decor, you couldn’t ask for a better location to be pampered like Parisian royalty.

Check rates & book your stay at Relais Christine!

Choose rome to…, … soak in the history of the roman empire..

At its peak, the Roman Empire stretched across large swaths of modern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East… but the center of it all is, of course, Rome.

The Colosseum , the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill–when you’re sightseeing in Rome, you’re literally walking through ancient history, and it shows.

… see some impressive archaeological sights.

If Paris is the city of art, Rome is the city of archaeology: archaeological sites like the Colosseum and Roman Forum are located right in the middle of the city center, just begging to be admired from all angles.

2 Days in Rome: View of Roman Forum

… eat lots and lots of Italian food.

Look, we both like French food. But we love Italian food.

So while it may be a tiny bit biased, if you’re like us and would rather devour a plate of cacio e pepe than of confit de canard while on vacation (and just to be clear: both of those are delicious, but one is more delicious than the other), Rome is the place for you.

Plus, panna cotta. Seriously.

Cool Things to Do in Florence: Cooking Class

… take a day trip to a beach.

While heading all the way from Rome to the Amalfi Coast for a day trip is an exercise in headaches and exhaustion, there are several beaches within a couple hours of Rome (even by public transport!) that can easily be accessed for a small taste of the Mediterranean.

… experience an iconic city with only a short layover.

When trying to decide whether to visit Rome or Paris, the amount of time you have on the ground matters.

If you only have a day to spend in the city–say, your plane lands in the morning and leaves that evening–stick with Rome. Paris’ airports are both set far outside the city, and getting in and out of the airport (especially with Paris traffic) can be a hassle.

2 Days in Rome: Pantheon

… spend (a little bit) less money.

Paris and Rome are both iconic, incredible cities that rank among the most touristic cities in the world–in other words, neither one is exactly cheap.

However, if budget is a concern, Rome is slightly cheaper than Paris, particularly when it comes to lodging.

… if you’re interested in Catholic tourism or the history of the church.

Both Paris and Rome have impressive cathedrals and a deep history with Catholicism, of course, but when it comes to touring Catholic sights, you just can’t really top the Vatican.

2 Days in Rome: Vatican Museums Spiral Staircase

Where to stay in Rome depends a lot on your priorities: do you want to be surrounded by a beautiful neighborhood? Trastevere is the place for you. In the center of the action? Head to Centro Storico. Save money? The furthest reaches of the metro lines.

Personally, we consider access to the rest of the city to be the most important deciding factor when deciding where to stay–in other words, choose somewhere within no more than a 20-minute walk to a metro stop.

With access to the metro, the rest of Rome will be at your fingertips, and regardless of your price range, we think you’ll end up happy with your location in Rome.

Cafe with Chairs outside in February, Rome in Winter, Instagrammable Places in Rome

La Cornice Guesthouse  — We loved this little guesthouse! It was extremely clean and comfortable, and VERY affordable for Rome.

La Cornice is set slightly outside the main tourist areas, but an easy 5-minute walk to the metro and a 20-minute ride got us to the Colosseum and other major sights.

Our favorite part of La Cornice? Eating a nearby Joseph Ristorante for lunch, which we ate at several times on recommendation from the clerk at La Cornice. Just a 5 minute walk away, their lunch special offered a choice of about 10 main courses plus bread, wine, and one of several desserts for 8 Euros/person–it’s hard to beat that!

Check rates & book your stay at La Cornice Guesthouse!

Hotel Condotti  — Located just around the corner from the Spanish Steps (and consequently the Piazza di Spagna metro station), you couldn’t ask for a better location in Rome!

Well-reviewed and boasting exceptionally clean rooms, Hotel Condotti is the perfect choice for a traveler with a midrange budget (or luxury traveler–this hotel also holds some impressive looking suites!) who would like to be within walking distance to the best that Centro Storico has to offer.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Condotti!

Pantheon Inn  — If you’re looking for a building with classic Italian charm in the heart of Rome, this is it.

Located right behind the Pantheon and within reach, the Pantheon Inn offers a quiet, peaceful escape in the middle of bustling Rome.

You will need to walk a bit to the metro stop–but since the walk will take you through the heart of the beautiful Centro Storico, we doubt you’ll mind.

Check rates & book your stay at the Pantheon Inn!

2 Days in Rome: Couple Inside Colosseum

Visit Paris and Rome to…

… drink some fantastic wine..

Paris or Rome: when it comes to wine, you’re going to win either way.

Both cities boast the designation of being located in specific regions that are less known for their wines, while also being enveloped by the two most iconic wine-producing countries in the world.

As for the specific ins and outs preferring French or Italian wine, I’ll leave that to more discerning palates than our own–for the casual wine drinker, I would argue either place will allow you to sample some of the best wines of your life.

Couple in front of Colosseum: Visiting Rome in Winter

… eat some truly incredible food.

I won’t hide my preference for Italian food (even though I certainly enjoy French food as well), but there’s no denying that both Paris and Rome are home to some wonderful cuisine.

Whether you choose to visit Rome or Paris, we recommend doing some digging, checking out some reviews, and ensuring you skirt the rip-off tourist joints and eat some delicious food.

While the Michelin Star system isn’t perfect, it’s a great resource when traveling in France and Italy, as they are the first and third most covered countries in the world in the Michelin Star guidebook (number two is Japan).

If you want to try some delicious, Michelin Star-inspected food but avoid the high prices, consider their Bib Gourmand restaurants, which as essentially Michelin Star’s “cheap eats” category.

“Cheap” is a relative term–think around 20 Euros for a meal not including drinks–but it’s a good way to find some tasty food that won’t disappoint.

Paris vs Rome: Macaron Baking Class

… experience some impressive history.

From iconic sights like the Colosseum and the Vatican in Rome to (literally) underground ones like the Catacombs and Sewer Museum in Paris, there is plenty of history to explore in Rome and Paris.

Regardless of whether you choose to visit Paris or Rome, you’ll have a chance to soak in some incredibly detailed history about centuries past.

… visit one of the most iconic cities in the world.

As two of the most visited cities in the world, there’s no escaping the fact that you’ll be sharing the city with literally millions of other tourists in either Rome or Paris… but there’s also no escaping the fact that you’ll be visiting a global treasure.

Books, movies, and travel writers have all waxed poetic about the beauty of Rome and Paris, often even twining their names with London so that they trip off the tongue together: “London, Paris, and Rome.”

In either Paris or Rome, you’ll have the opportunity to admire, in person, epic sights that have dotted photographs, movies, books, and even cartoons (hello, Notre Dame) for our entire lives.

No matter which city you choose, you are in for an incredible treat.

3 Days in Paris Itinerary: Sacre Coeur

Consider settling your Paris vs Rome debate based on the type of trip you’re looking for.

For Couples: Paris

The city of lovers, of romance, of spectacular love stories… if you’re looking for a romantic couples getaway (or a honeymoon!) and you’re struggling to decide between Paris vs Rome, the answer is Paris.

Rome or Paris: Books on Banks of the Seine

For Families: Rome

Paris is a more formal city than Rome, and while you can certainly enjoy a family trip to either, scrambling over ruins and downing pizza is, generally speaking, much more kid-friendly than strolling through art galleries and eating omelets that probably come with something green in them.

Visiting Rome with kids can be an absolute blast!

For Girls Getaways: Paris

Hit up the nightlife in Montmartre. Learn to bake macarons or croissants . Indulge in a wine tasting. Buy some touristy berets and take pictures of each other in front of the Eiffel Tower.

There are so many iconic things to do for groups of friends visiting Paris, you can’t possibly go wrong by booking the trip.

For Solo Travelers: Rome

We asked around and spoke with some solo-traveling friends of ours for this one, and they were decisive: Rome, Rome, always Rome–and save Paris for when you’re going with a lover or group of friends.

Piazzas in Rome: Piazza San Pietro

I always hate picking favorites, especially in a battle like Paris vs Rome where I love them both so dearly.

After many visits to both Rome and Paris, with many more to come in the future, I’d have to say that Rome holds a slight edge over Paris for both of us–and Italy holds a slight edge over France, as well.

That’s only our opinion, though, and plenty of people disagree with us!

There’s no doubt that in a showdown of Paris vs Rome, there’s ultimately no wrong answer: no matter which iconic city you choose to visit, you’re bound to walk away enchanted.

Paris vs Rome

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

14 thoughts on “Paris vs Rome: Which Iconic City is Right for You?”

Both places sound beyond awesome Kate but I would choose Rome based on its history. The place vibes with me on many levels. My wife also enjoyed her visit many years ago, so I received a neat little preview because our travel tastes are similar. Paris is certainly on the list though.

You definitely can’t go wrong with either! Rome’s history is amazing.

The metro system in Paris is so overwhelming! I looked at it once and I gave up, it seemed like all the lines were going crisscross. Would definitely visit both Paris and Rome again. I was still a teenager when I visited both and I feel like visiting XX years after would be a completely different experience!

Haha funny you mention that! Agreed, Paris was the first metro we ever navigated (we both grew up in the suburbs), and we were TERRIBLE at it on that first trip. Luckily we have gotten better since!

You don’t have to be Catholic to appreciate the Vatican and the many, many other fantastic cathedrals in Rome. You can go see Michaelangelo works in a museum, or you can go to the churches. The churches are, of course, more interesting. The Vatican has a an incredible museum, but the edifice itself — exterior, interior; the tombs below, and the roof above — are all amazing.

Of course not, hope I didn’t give that impression. We are not Catholic but have enjoyed many cathedrals and churches in Rome (and Paris, for that matter), including the Vatican.

I am Rome all the way. I will never be able to get enough. I have been with the girls, with hubs, with family, with the grandkids and could easily go alone. Feel the same about Italy as a whole. Love the organized chaos, the people the food, the climate, the outdoor museum and most of all the la dolce vita. It doesn’t hurt to just sit, eat gelato and watch the beautiful people either. Call me a fan for sure.

That sounds like how we feel about Italy, too! I’m constantly dreaming of getting back to Rome… but Paris does hold a special place in my heart too.

In my point of view Paris is a perfect place for visit rather then Rome. I have been there lots of times in my whole life and every time had huge fun there. m

Glad you love it! Paris is an amazing city for sure.

Both cities are gorgeous. With this said, ROME is, in my view, above. I remember reading that 16% of the world’s artistic/archeological/monumental/historic heritage is found in Rome, meaning over one-sixth of the planet’s treasures. That blows my mind.

Rome is definitely a mindblowing sort of place! I absolutely adore that city–can’t wait to be back again later this year.

Great post! As for my choice….I would choose ROME – hands down! I loved everything about the city! Paris, on the other hand, did not meet my expectations (but that could’ve been my own faulty perception).

Paris to me is just my favorite european city, I love the architecture more than old historical sites. Paris the homeland of gothique architecture. hausmanian building and the louvre museum and versailles castel. I hope to return back also in Rome that I consider romantic too

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From Paris to Rome - The Scenic Route

❮ from paris to rome - the scenic route.

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This 12 night sample itinerary includes:.

  • Flight into Paris and out of Rome
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Paris
  • Lyria TGV Train Paris - Lucerne
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Lucerne
  • Cisalpino Train Lucerne - Milan
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Milan
  • TRN Train Milan - Lake Maggiore (Stressa)
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Lake Maggiore (Stressa)
  • TRN Train Lake Maggiore (Stressa) - Venice
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Venice
  • ES Train Venice - Rome
  • Hotel for 2 nights in Rome
  • Daily breakfast (if stated in hotel info)

Europe is well known for its sweeping beauty, and this ultimate vacation package will escort you from Paris (the romantic City of Lights), through Lucerne , Milan , Lake Maggiore , Venice and ultimately Rome with the Lyria TGV, Cisalpino, TRN and ES High Speed Trains. See the famous landscape, the museums, art and architecture that keeps visitors entranced with this spectacular continent. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

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places to visit between paris and rome

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places to visit between paris and rome

For centuries Italy has drawn foreign visitors - mostly for its architectural, artistic, and scenic splendors. Italy can truly be all things to all people. From the passion and excitement of noisy urban crowds to the quiet, rural idyll where the traditional life can be experienced. Italy's great cities are replete with rich attractions and culture alongside some of the most pristine beaches and spectacular mountains in the world.

places to visit between paris and rome

Switzerland

Switzerland is a pristine country of lakes, mountains and forests. The best known of the continent`s mountain ranges, the Alpine chain, runs through most of Switzerland and provides the majority of the country`s magnificent natural sights. In the summer, towns such as Interlaken become green mountain centers for walking and mountaineering, and there are few places more naturally beautiful in the whole of Europe. Zurich, Geneva, Bern and Lucerne are models of Swiss efficiency, offering a wealth of perfectly serene history. Less busy are the lakeside resorts, including fashionable Montreux on Lake Geneva.

places to visit between paris and rome

France remains one of the worlds most talked-about and written-about destinations. Whether the romance of Paris sweeps you off your feet or you fall gently for the relaxed life of Provence, France is a place for lovers, and will leave you spellbound. Paris is undoubtedly one of the world's great cities, with enough monuments, museums, restaurants, theatres and shows to last a lifetime. The northern provinces of Normandy and Brittany are steeped in history while the Loire Valley is world famous for its châteaux. And there is more to explore.

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places to visit between paris and rome

Paris is regarded as one of the most dynamic cities in Europe, and for good reason: the city assaults the senses; demanding to be seen, heard, touched, tasted, and smelled. Gaze at impressive monuments and savor its gourmet cheeses, chocolates, wines, and seafood. Paris is relatively small as capitals go, with many of its major sights and museums within walking distance of each other. A world of discovery awaits in every hidden corner and at all the famous sites, there is so much to explore. Visit the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Jardin des Tuileries, Latin Quarter, Avenue des Champs Elysees, Musee d'Orsay, Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe and so much more!

places to visit between paris and rome

Located at the north end of the Lake Lucerne within sight of Mount Pilatus and Rigi, Lucerne is a beautiful small city in the heartland of Switzerland. It abounds in narrow cobblestone streets, covered bridges, frescoed houses, and fountains. The city became a center of Swiss history and legend, and is the setting for the most memorable part of the legend of William Tell who shot an apple off of his son's head. Lucerne is also a great base from which to explore other famous Swiss sites. Explore the Old Town, Walk the Medieval Wooden Covered Bridges, Hike Mt Rigi or Mt Pilatus, Walk the Fortress Walls, Cruise on the Lake by boat, Visit the Lion Monument, Visit Jesuit Church, Visit the many Museums, Check out the Glacier Garden, take some pictures at the Bourbaki Panorama, and so much more!

places to visit between paris and rome

Milan is Italy's window on Europe, its most sophisticated and high-tech metropolis. La Scala, its landmark, is one of Europe's most prestigious opera houses. In addition, it's the site of several world-renowned annual trade fairs. Milan is one of Europe's top shopping cities, with an incredible concentration of sophisticated, high style boutiques - and that's only fitting because Milan is the dynamo of the Italian fashion industry. Dolce & Gabbana, Ferré, Krizia, Moschino, Prada, Armani, and Versace have all catapulted to international stardom from design studios based here. Inevitably, shopping is of almost religious significance. Discover The Last Supper by Michelangelo, The Duomo, Pinacoteca di Brera, Quadrilatero d'Oro, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Scala museum and theatre, Piazza Fontana. Arco della Pace, the churches of Santa Maria delle Grazie and San Lorenzo, Corso Venezia and Piazza San Babila and Sforzesco Castle and so much more.

places to visit between paris and rome

Stresa is a small town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, where relaxing is the main activity for tourists and locals alike. The lakeside promenade will give everyone a chance to admire both the lake scenery and the grand lakeside hotels. The Borromean Islands, where Hemingway set his famed A Farewell to Arms , are a short boat trip away, and it would be pity to miss them. Visit and explore the Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori, Villa Pallavicino Park, Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, Lagoni di Mercurago, Mottarone Mountain, Castles and Fortresses and so much more.

places to visit between paris and rome

With sumptuous palaces and romantic waterways, Venice is straight out of an 18th-century Canaletto masterpiece. No matter how many times you have seen it in movies or TV commercials, the real thing is more surreal and dreamlike than you ever imagined. Its landmarks, the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale are exotic melanges of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. It is full of secrets, ineffably romantic, and - at times - given over entirely to pleasure. You must walk everywhere in Venice and where you cannot walk, you go by water. Explore Piazza San Marco, Stroll Across the Rialto Bridge, Get Lost in the Endless Canals, Admire the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute, Visit the San Giorgio dei Greci, Walk Around the Jewish Ghetto, Learn About Venice's Musical History, Tour Venice's Unique Architecture at Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Celebrate One of Venice' Many Festivals, Go Window Shopping, and so much more.

places to visit between paris and rome

Rome is undeniably stunning, from its rich ancient culture, must try pizzas and coffees or just experience a touch of Europe. This city is packed full of sights, with thousands of years of history layered upon itself - you'll find everything here from Roman ruins to Renaissance art. It's also home to fantastic food, the Vatican City, and sights galore. Explore and discover the Roman Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine; Discover the Vatican, the smallest independent state in the world; Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain; Marvel at the Pantheon; Sit on the Spanish Steps; Wander the Piazzas; Eat the best Gelato in Rome; Climb Palatine Hill; Walk the Ancient Appian Way; Go to the Vatican Museums and so much more.

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places to visit between paris and rome

  • Travel Planning Guide

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

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  • Pros & Cons
  • Attractions
  • Backpackers
  • Public Transit
  • Walkability
  • More time in Paris or Rome?
  • Which is Cheaper, Paris or Rome? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Paris or Rome?

  • When to Visit Paris or Rome?

Should you visit Paris or Rome?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Should I visit Paris 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.

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Paris and Rome: Pros and Cons

  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty

Is there more to do in Paris or Rome?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paris than Rome, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Rome is well 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.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Rome?

Which is better for a holiday.

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

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

Spend time exploring the terrific sights and museums in either Paris or Rome.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Rome is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Rome is not a theatre destination.

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

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

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Rome has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is terrific in both Paris and Rome.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Music?

Paris and Rome are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Rome Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Rome?

If you're looking to go shopping, Paris and Rome both offer plenty of terrific spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Christmas?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Rome does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Rome does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Families?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Rome is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Couples?

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

Paris is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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.

Is Paris or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Paris and Rome are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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).

Is Paris or Rome Better for Students?

For students, both Paris and Rome are terrific places to visit.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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

Paris and Rome both offer terrific public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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

Is Paris or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Rome is a very easy city to get around 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Paris?

How long in paris or rome.

Both Paris and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paris than Rome . However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Rome. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Paris 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 Paris or Rome? Ideal Length of Stay Paris 3-7   Rome   3-7

One day in Paris or Rome?

Paris is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Rome, many people enjoy the live music and food that this ancient big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paris or Rome?

Paris is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paris or Rome?

Paris is a iconic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Rome is a fun place to experience. In Rome, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paris or Rome?

Paris is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Rome, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this ancient big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France , The Best 10-Day Tours in France , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , and The Best Budget Tours to Italy .

Which place is cheaper, Rome or Paris?

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

  • Paris Prices France Prices Rome Prices Italy Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Paris € 232 Rome € 170

The average daily cost (per person) in Paris is €232, while the average daily cost in Rome is €170. 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 Paris and Rome in more detail.

Accommodation

  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Paris € 151 Rome € 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Paris € 302 Rome € 178

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Local Transportation

  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Paris € 21 Rome € 21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:

  • Metro € 6.40
  • Train from Airport € 9.00
  • Metro tickets € 6.80
  • Train € 20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Disneyland Private Transfer - Luxury Minivan Service: $187
  • La Defense Private Transfer to Airport or Central Paris: $23
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $271
  • 2 Parks Disneyland Paris with private transfer: $206
  • Airport Transfer Service Shuttle Disneyland Paris Taxi: $83
  • Airport Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Paris City by Business Car: $102
  • Airport Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Paris City by Luxury EQS: $154
  • Airport Transfer: Paris City to Paris Airport CDG by Luxury EQS: $154
  • Airport transfer from Paris to Disneyland Paris/Parc Asterix (8pax): $187
  • Airport: Private transfer to/from Paris - Charles de Gaulle: $109
  • Arrival Private Transfer Paris Airport CDG to Paris by Sedan : $88
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Paris Orly Airport ORY to Paris City by Luxury Van: $111

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rome

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

  • Metro Ride (for Two) € 2.00
  • Train to the Airport € 15
  • Taxi to Airport € 45
  • Bicycle Rental (Full Day) € 10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rome

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rome:

  • Rome Airport: Round Trip Transfer to Venice Cruise Port: $4,088
  • Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): 1-Way Transfer To Trieste Port: $2,581
  • Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,581
  • Rome Airport (FCO): Transfer to/from Venice Port: $2,044
  • Fiumucino Airport 1-way Transfer to/from Chioggia Port: $1,935
  • Luxury Private Transfer Siena to Rome Fiumicino Airport: $991
  • Private luxury transfer Siena to Rome city center: $953
  • Luxury private transfer Siena to Rome Ciampino airport: $953
  • Private Transfer from Amalfi to Rome or viceversa: $779
  • From Sorrento: Private Transfer to Rome or Vice Versa: $746
  • Sorrento to Rome 1-Way Private Transfer: $675
  • Private Transfer from Naples to Rome or viceversa: $632

Is it cheaper to fly into Paris or Rome?

Prices for flights to both Rome and Paris 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 Meals for one day Paris € 41 Rome € 47

Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:

  • Ice Cream € 8.00
  • Breakfast € 7.00
  • Breakfast for 2 € 30
  • Dinner on River Cruise € 86
  • Dinner € 57
  • Cheese € 13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $50
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $68
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $68
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $69
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $69
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $69
  • Paris Food Tour: $76
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise on Seine River and Saint-Martin Canal: $76
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $76
  • Seine River Dinner Cruise from Eiffel Tower: $86

Typical Food Prices in Rome

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

  • Casual Lunch (for Two) € 14
  • 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches € 2.99
  • Cafe e doce € 4.00
  • Pizza (Fast Food) € 2.65
  • Sitdown Lunch (for Two) € 32
  • Cheese and bread € 10
  • Espresso € 2.00
  • Dinner € 58

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
  • Hard Rock Cafe Rome with Set Lunch or Dinner: $30
  • Wine Tasting and Food Tour at Vatican and Trionfale Farmers: $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
  • Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32
  • Rome City Center Largest Farmers Market and Street Food Tour : $32
  • Vatican Street Food Tour and Wine Experience with Local Guide: $32
  • Campo de'Fiori & Ghetto Street Food Tour with Tastings: $35
  • Dinner in Carbonara,Amatriciana,Cacio&Pepe e wine tasting : $35
  • Cooking class - Become a Roman Masterchef: $37
  • Cooking Class Hand-Made Pasta Cacio e Pepe & Tiramisù: $37

Entertainment

  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Paris € 77 Rome € 36

Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

  • Louvre Entry for Two € 18
  • Admission to Pantheon € 5.00
  • Catacombs (2) € 23

Tours and Activities in Paris

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.

  • Paris - Free Walking Tour of: Montmartre: $2.18
  • Montmartre Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $3.27
  • Montmartre Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.30
  • Historic Paris Walking Tour: $3.31
  • Marais Walk Self Guided Audio Tour: $4.41
  • Eiffel Tower Audio Tour Experience: $5.00
  • Père-Lachaise Cemetery audio guide tour: $5.45
  • Self-guided Tour Covered Passages in Paris: $5.45
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.45
  • Kid-Friendly Marais: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.49
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Paris: $5.51
  • Paris Without People - Sunrise Bike Tour: $5.52

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) € 69
  • Coliseum Tickets (for Two) € 33
  • Roma Pass € 30
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day) € 20
  • Segway Tour € 75

Tours and Activities in Rome

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

  • Borghese Gallery Skip-the-Line Ticket & Golf Cart Ride: $56
  • Castel Sant Angelo Skip the Line Tickets: $40
  • Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour: $89
  • Colosseum Arena Floor Guided Tour with Ancient Rome Access : $198
  • Colosseum Tour With Kids: $198
  • Colosseum and Ancient Rome Tour with Circus Maximus and Forums: $17
  • Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill Professional Guided Tour: $163
  • Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Tour: $187
  • Complete St Peters Basilica Tour with Dome Climb and Crypt: $43
  • Cruise into Rome?! Full-Day Rome Discovery from Civitavecchia : $87
  • Electric - Bike 3 hour Tour : $56
  • Exclusive Private Golf Cart Tours Rome : $219
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day Paris € 24 Rome € 18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:

  • Wine € 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Paris Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party Pub Crawl: $14
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $17
  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $17
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $25
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $26
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $32
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $39
  • Audio guided tour and wine tasting at Caves du Louvre: $40
  • Wine tasting Paris Saint Germain des Pres: $52
  • Montmartre Cheese and Wine Tasting Experience: $54

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rome

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

  • Bottle of Wine € 6.50
  • Pint of Beer € 6.34
  • Beer € 10

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: $32
  • Vatican Street Food and Wine Tour with Farmers Market: $32
  • Vatican Quarter and Trionfale Farmers Market Food and Wine Tour: $32
  • Rome's Ultimate Party aka the Spanish Steps Pub Crawl: $46
  • The Best Wine Tasting in Trastevere with food pairing and Gelato: $50
  • Bar Crawl with Local Guide & Drinks: $53
  • Roman Night Life and Burlesque Show Tour: $54
  • Small-Group Exclusive Winery and Wine Tasting Tour in Frascati: $61
  • Orange wine tasting : $61
  • Frascati Wine Tasting Tour & Vineyards : $65
  • Pasta Making & Wine Tasting in a Trastevere Villa: $69
  • Private Wine Tasting in Trastevere: $72

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Rome, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Rome much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rome would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rome 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Rome.

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

Rome has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Paris. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris or Rome?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paris as well as Rome. Many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, 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 July, Paris is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Rome. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

  • Summer Average Temperatures July Paris 20°C (68°F)   Rome   25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, 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.

Paris is cooler than Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Rome. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

  • Autumn Average Temperatures October Paris 13°C (56°F)   Rome   17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Winter?

Both Rome and Paris during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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 Paris can be very cold. In the winter, Paris is much colder than Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Rome. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

  • Winter Average Temperatures January Paris 5°C (40°F)   Rome   8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Paris or Rome in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Rome. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Paris is generally cooler than Rome. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 11°C (52°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rome. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

  • Spring Average Temperatures April Paris 11°C (52°F)   Rome   14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Paris

Related articles for paris, related articles for rome.

places to visit between paris and rome

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Rome vs Paris

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 10th, 2024 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

eiffel tower paris

When comparing Rome vs Paris which city do you choose?

Each of these European capital cities attract visitors from all over the world.

The city of Rome, also called ‘the Eternal City’ is worth visiting for its timeless beauty and to try the best ‘pasta carbonara’ of your life.

Paris, is loved by couples and art aficionados looking forward to getting lost around its cosy boulangerie and lively neighborhoods.

It’s not easy to choose between two cities that offer so much, so below we’ll begin to understand the differences between Rome vs Paris, and which is best for you.

Table of Contents

Rome vs Paris: Which is better?

If you are currently planning to visit a city in Europe and are asking yourself: Rome or Paris? Then simply keep reading this page to learn more about both capital cities so you can make an informed decision before you travel.

Rome vs Paris: Best time to visit

One of the reasons why Rome is worth visiting is that the city has a mild Mediterranean climate , making any time of the year a good time to visit.

Peter's Basilica at Vatican

However, if you have the chance, we recommend visiting Rome in spring or autumn , as the temperatures are more pleasant. During these months prices of flights and accommodation are also more affordable than in the summer. Winter is never particularly cold, making of Rome a great city to visit even off-season.

Paris is located in the north of France and has a mix of oceanic and continental climates . In fact, the climate of the city is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean which mitigates its temperatures. Having a continental climate too means cold winters and quite hot summers. The best time to visit Paris is late spring and September .

During these months temperatures are lovely, you can spend the majority of your time outdoors exploring the streets and its charming neighborhoods.

🏆 Our winner: Rome

Rome vs Paris: Culture

During the Roman Empire, considered its significant role, Rome used to be called ‘caput mundi’ in Latin, which means the capital of the world!

piazza venezia popular landmark in rome

Today, Rome is still considered as one of the most important cultural destinations in the world to visit at least once in your life.

The impressive amount of landmarks from the Roman Empire era to these days, it’s literally mind-blowing. It’s also the city with the highest number of churches, embassies and fountains in the world.

What can you expect from Roman people? They are extremely friendly, playful and easygoing . If you ever need any help, ask for directions or advice, rest assured that a local will always be happy to help you (despite the language barrier you might encounter)!

The Romans are also famous for being quite laid-back reflected also in the way services and infrastructures are managed.

travel Paris streets

On the other hand, it was found that Parisians are not as welcoming and friendly as other French people that come from the province.

The reason why is not 100% clear! But it can be related to the great number of tourists taking over the city’s spaces and causing excessive pressure on attractions and hospitality businesses during certain times of the year.

But the Parisians are also hard workers, trendy and love partying ! Additionally, the wide choice of cultural events, shows and theatres in the city are never ending and make Paris an exciting destination to visit more than once.

🏆 Our winner: Draw

Rome vs Paris: Food

Every region in Italy has its traditional dishes, passed down from the older generation to the younger ones and one of the most outstanding cuisines in Italy is Roman cuisine . Even when comparing North vs South Italy as well.

carbonara rome food

Rome is the motherland of the pasta carbonara, amatriciana and cacio e pepe , some of the most loved pasta dishes in the country and beyond!

For a lunch on the go, the popular supplì is a must-try and for dessert indulge in the creamy pastry called maritozzo . With those dishes you can’t go wrong.

In a capital city like Rome, you can also find some more classics of Italian cuisine like pizza or ethnic cuisine restaurants. Why not join this popular street food tour with a local guide, to learn more about the vibrant Roman food scene?

In Paris, you’ll certainly find more ethnic restaurants than in Rome with an interesting Middle-Eastern and North-African food scene .

Paris is also the food capital of France where all the best of French cuisine can be found. From acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants to simple market stalls, you are only spoiled for choice when in Paris.

market in paris

There’s no doubt that among the fantastic places to eat at there are also pretty bad ones here. Avoid the restaurants with the classic ‘tourist set menu’ and always check TripAdvisor/Google reviews.

Rome vs Paris: Cost of Travel

Spending 4 days in Rome can cost around 110 euros per person per day whilst in Paris at least 20 euros more.

For this reason, Rome is definitely more affordable than Paris where the cost of accommodation and eating out is generally always a lot higher. If traveling from the USA, you will find that the flight costs are more or less the same.

metro paris

So expect to spend more in Paris on your hotel room, to move around the city by public transport and to access most of the popular attractions.

If you’re a solo traveler or traveling on a budget, then we’d recommend Rome.

Paris is a great city to visit as a couple and with family to celebrate special occasions, and for this reason, many travelers tend to not look much at the budget that needs to be higher. For this reason, the winner is Rome over Paris.

For a stay with a medium budget in Rome, we suggest staying at the stylish Nerva Boutique Hotel , in the heart of the city. In Paris, check out the Hôtel Bienvenue , only a 10-minute walk from Galeries Lafayette.

Rome vs Paris: Things to do

Both Rome and Paris have an incredible amount of things you can do during your time in the city. When in Rome, you’ll certainly spend most of your time sightseeing whilst walking around the historical center.

trevi fountain rome

You can see landmarks such as the Coliseum, the Roman Forums, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps , visit museums and explore neighborhoods.

Even though the attractions are pretty close to the other, you’ll soon realize that it takes time to walk around the city or take public transport. Outside Rome’s city center, there’s not much else you can do .

Paris is well-connected by public transport, better than Rome and this will allow you to save time.

Although the main activity for most is to go sightseeing , you can easily carve out some time to visit one of the many art exhibitions, go to the theatre, walk along the Seine River and by night, attend a Moulin Rouge show ! From Paris, you can also get a train and visit the iconic Palace of Versailles or Disneyland .

🏆 Our winner: Paris

Rome vs Paris: Tourist Attractions

Rome counts on a huge number of tourist attractions. The charm of the ‘Eternal City’ derives from its ancient history , from the old Roman civilization to the present day.

colosseum rome

In Rome, you can visit the Coliseum and the Roman Forum dating back to the Roman era, tens of medieval churches and the Trevi Fountain to the 19th century, just to mention a few.

You can literally spend months discovering the most known landmarks, strolling around its piazzas as well as finding out some of its best hidden treasures in the historical city centre.

On the other hand, Paris also attracts millions of visitors each year for it’s incredible range of activities and things to see and do.

Of course, on the top of the list, there’s the romantic Eiffel Tower , followed by the Louvre , Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées.

is paris safe

For art lovers, there are museums like the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Pompidou where you can easily spend a couple of hours, lost among modern and contemporary art masterpieces.

Since Rome has a long history and a larger number of tourist attractions , the winner between Rome and Paris must be the ‘Eternal City’!

Rome vs Paris: Getting Around

The main attractions in Rome are located in a large area that can be explored on foot . For a first approach to the city and to visit the main attractions, we recommend taking part in a guided walking tour or taking a tour on the tourist bus , to be able to explore the Italian capital city if you have limited time to spend here.

transport in rome

Unfortunately, it’s not recommended to drive around as the road conditions are bad, and the traffic is quite problematic too. Instead of the bus, use the underground which is usually on time and not affected by the city’s traffic.

If you’re spending a weekend in Rome, get the Omnia pass that will give you 72 hours access to public transport , entry to some historical sites like the Coliseum and St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and 3-day hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Moving around Paris is extremely easy both on foot or by public transport , a system we believe being one of the most efficient and reliable for a metropolis of this size.

The fastest and cheapest way to get to know Paris is certainly by getting the famous metro , equipped with 15 lines that connect the various points of the city.

bike in paris

There are also 5 RER lines that cross Paris connecting the suburbs and can be used in combination with the metro even in the city center.

When walking around the city, you can see the ‘metro’ sign everywhere, indicating the entrance to the subway. We recommend purchasing the Paris travel pass called Paris Visite , to enjoy unlimited travel in Paris and the Île-de-France region.

Now you should have a better idea of what Rome and Paris offer and their respective strong and weak points. Based on your travel style, budget and attractions you’d like to see, we hope we helped to clarify the best of both cities.

Rome vs Paris: Which will you visit?

There’s no definitive answer and when comparing two cities like Rome and Paris, it’s really up to you to decide which could be your next travel destination.

Both cities have lots to offer in terms of landmarks and museums to see, neighborhoods to explore and activities to do so you won’t regret visiting both !

For more travel inspiration, check out this post covering our 3 days in Rome itinerary and one that can help you to decide how many days in Paris is enough.

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places to visit between paris and rome

Should I Visit Paris or Rome? | Paris vs Rome, Choosing the City That’s Right For You

places to visit between paris and rome

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Choosing between Paris and Rome for your European vacation? It’s quite the task trying to decide which of these two iconic videos you should visit! 

Paris and Rome are both beautiful cities with world-class sights, amazing wine, great food, tons of history, and plenty to do. 

While you can’t really go wrong between the two, there are a few things to consider when deciding if Paris or Rome is the right choice for you.

After visiting both, you’ve come to the right place for some guidance on making your selection. Read on to help you make your decision!

Jump To: Paris vs Rome: Which City Is Right For You? What to Do in Paris What to Do in Rome Where to Stay in Rome Where to Stay in Paris Our Final Recommendation

Paris vs Rome: Which City Is Right For You?

Choosing between Paris and Rome is so difficult, and the answer is going to majorly depend on who you ask! Having visited both, we can absolutely see the appeal each city has and all it has to offer. 

With night time champagne and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle,  Paris is without a doubt the more romantic destination and might be more attractive to couples. Here, you’ll also find some of the most incredible art in the world, housed in the Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay. Art galleries and street artists are sprinkled throughout the city, making it the ideal location for art lovers or those looking for a little romance!

Paris also features one of the densest metro systems in the world so you can easily get all over the city. And it does feel like just that, a city. Probably more so than Rome, Paris feels like a metropolitan beast full of dense neighborhoods, and yes, a lot of traffic! While you can walk most places (averaging 20,000 steps a day, we did), you’ll more than likely want to take advantage of the metro or bus system as the city is quite sprawling.

Rome on the other hand, is a bit smaller in size and infinitely more walkable. From the Vatican to the Colosseum, the two furthest points you’d likely be visiting, is just a 2.5 mile walk. All of the other landmarks are, for the most part, clustered together in the center of this route. Now while 2.5 miles may seem like a lot (and you can definitely take the bus, there’s a lot of them!), it pales in comparison to all the walking you’ll do in Paris with all of the landmarks more spread out through the city. 

While Rome doesn’t have the glittering Eiffel Tower, its landmarks are still lit up and quite magical at night! From the Colosseum to the Trevi Fountain, the sights of Rome are stunning any time of day and dripping in history.

Rome may not seem as romantic right off the bat as Paris, but it sure is an exciting city and a history-lover’s paradise. With world-class landmarks, stunning churches sprinkled throughout the city (that you can go in and explore!), and ancient, intricate fountains and monuments hidden throughout the city, there’s something gorgeous around every corner. It’s like the most amazing scavenger hunt you can imagine!

All in all, Paris may be what you’re looking for if you love art and romance. But Rome has more sights and rich history to offer its visitors.

What to Do in Paris

READ: 12 Things to Do in Paris for First-Time Visitors

When visiting Paris, immerse yourself in the City of Love by exploring its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods. Begin your journey at the Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris and a must-visit for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Stroll along the Seine River and admire the architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral and Musee d’Orsay, before making your way to the Arc de Triomphe, another legendary Parisian site. 

Wander through the historic streets of Le Marais or Montmartre, where you’ll find trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Indulge in the culinary delights of French cuisine by sampling pastries at a local patisserie, enjoying a leisurely meal at a traditional bistro, or picnicking in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. 

And you won’t want to miss the Louvre Museum, home to thousands of works of art, including the world-famous Mona Lisa. Paris is such a charming city that is rich in history and vibrant culture. Take the time to savor its enchanting ambiance and create lasting memories while touring the City of Light!

You May Also Like: 2 Days in Paris Itinerary

What to Do in Rome

READ: An Epic 2 Days in Rome Itinerary

A visit to the Eternal City is one you won’t soon forget! Begin your journey at the Colosseum, Rome’s most famous landmarks nd one of the 7 Wonders of the World. Explore the Roman Forum nearby, a captivating archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the city’s old-world political and social life. 

Wander through the historic neighborhoods of Trastevere and the charming streets around the Pantheon, stopping at local cafes and trattorias to savor authentic Italian cuisine (or do a food tour!) Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain and experience the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican City, home to priceless art collections, including Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. 

Rome’s streets are living museums, with something beautiful around every corner. Embrace the opportunity to discover ancient ruins, Renaissance architecture, and the warm hospitality of the Roman people.

You May Also Like: 11 Best Things to Do in Rome for First-Time Visitors

Where to Stay in Rome

When visiting Rome, you really can’t go wrong with where you stay! While price points vary greatly throughout the city, there are a lot of great areas that are safe, clean, and central to the sights.

While we stayed in Prati, we would definitely choose to stay near the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon when we visit again. This area was much more central (since we liked to walk everywhere), had tons of great shopping and restaurants, and of course, made it easy to see all of the stunning architecture and landmarks in Rome.

You May Also Like: The Ultimate Guide to Rome

Where to Stay in Paris

Choosing where to stay in Paris depends on your preferences, budget, and the experience you’re looking for. The central districts, such as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th arrondissements, offer proximity to major attractions like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the vibrant Marais district. 

For a more artistic atmosphere (and often, better prices), Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement, with its charming streets and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, is a great choice. 

The Saint-Germain-des-Prés area in the 6th arrondissement is known for its intellectual and literary history, offering quaint cafes and a more local-feeling scene. This is where stayed and in November, it was very quiet while still feeling relatively central to the sights. 

If luxury and high-end shopping are priorities, the 8th arrondissement, around the Champs-Élysées, may be ideal. 

Alternatively, the Latin Quarter (5th and 6th arrondissements) is known for its academic feel, historical landmarks, and diverse dining options. Regardless of your choice, Paris has a wide range of hotels, boutique accommodations, and charming apartments to suit different tastes and budgets, ensuring a delightful stay in the City of Lights.

Our Final Recommendation

Our final recommendation in the great debate between visiting Paris or Rome is….

Rome. 

With so many landmarks and beauty around every corner, there’s so much to do in the Eternal City. When we think back to the one we most enjoyed on our trip, and which we would more readily go back to, Rome wins every time. It was absolutely one of the most amazing places we’ve ever been!

Read our Ultimate Guide to Rome to plan the best trip ever – and prepare for your adventure with these mistakes tourists always make in Rome . 

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Europe , Italy , Road Trip · May 21, 2020

The ultimate Italy road trip – 5 beautiful stops from Venice to Rome

This is hands down one of my favourite road trips we have ever done. Driving from Venice to Rome, down through Lombardy, Emilia Romagna and Tuscany, showed a side of Italy I had never seen before. Stopping off at some of the most beautiful little villages and natural wonderlands along the way we completely fell in love with the area. If you are contemplating a road trip in Italy then I could not recommend this one more! We took this trip as a part of our 3 week trip to Italy where we started in the Dolomites, drove through Tuscany and ended up in the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre. It was the absolute dream Italy drip – but the best part was definitely this road trip through the Tuscan Countryside. At no other point on our trip did we stay in such beautiful places or get to see so many unique towns.

So, with that let’s get started!

the etruscan hilltop city of pitigliano in italy with houses carved into the cliff face

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Our 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary

  • Day 1 – Venice
  • Day 2: Mantova
  • Day 3: San Marino
  • Day 4: Urbino
  • Day 5: Gola Del Furlo, Lago Trasimeno, Church of San Biagio, bagni San Filippo, Manciano
  • Day 6: Pitigliano, Rome

Hiring A Car in Italy

I personally think the best way to travel around Tuscany is by car, thus this is a road trip Italy guide. Only because it means that you can stop whenever you want and be a little more spontaneous. I have written this blog post as an Italy road trip itinerary so many of the spots are hard to reach by public transport.

We hired our car in Verona or a previous part of our trip and drive around The Dolomites first. From here we drove to Venice and then started our trip. In my experience the best place to hire a car is at the airport. Although, if you are looking for a more budget option it is usually cheaper to hire cars in the city outlets rather than the airport.

When travelling around this area of Europe , we usually hire our cars from Discover Cars . They have cars from all major car hire dealers in Italy so it is really easy to find the best price for the period of your stay!

I recommend always getting comprehensive car insurance. This is especially true when you are on a road trip in Italy as sometimes the drivers there can be a little bit crazier than you are used to. When we had finished our road trip from Venice to Rome we left the car at the airport in Rome.

it Italy they drive on the right side of the road.

the orange and red houses lining one of venice's canals

The Best Hotels To Stay At from Venice to Rome

I have added the details of all accomodations below! I recommend every single one of them for their own reasons! We booked them all on either Airbnb or Booking.com.

Venice to Rome – the dreamiest Summer Italy Road Trip

Day 1: starting the road trip in venice.

We chose to start our road trip in Venice as this was a destination we had wanted to visit for a long time and it seemed like the perfect anchor point for a Tuscan trip. We spent 2 days in Venice before beginning our Italy road trip which was the perfect amount of time.

If you want more detailed information on Venice, see this post!

There are quite a few amazing sights in Venice that are worth seeing, but truthfully I would say the best way to enjoy the city is just to spend all day aimlessly walking around, trying to get lost. It is harder than you think, with all streets seeming to connect and lead you back to the same place, but it is amazing when you find alleyways and squares that are off the beaten track. This is when it really feels like a magical city! Venice is a great place to start your road trip in Italy, with easy international access and it is close by to the best places to visit!

girl standing looking over one of the thin venice canals with colourful houses in the background

How To Get To Venice

Depending where in your trip you are visiting Venice , there are so many options to getting there! You can fly into the airport, and then either get a shuttle bus into the city or take the express airport ferry. If you are arriving by car like we did, you have to park your car in one of the car parks outside of the city and then walk, or catch a ferry, to your accomodation! You have to book these car parks in advance, especially in peak season, as it is incredibly busy and they fill up really quickly! We booked ours into Garage San Marco. It was quite good value and the process was all very smooth. You give them your booking reference, they show you to your spot and you leave your keys, and when you come back you just show your reference again and off you go!

Where To Stay In Venice

We stayed at Hotel Ala, and I could not recommend anywhere more! It felt so fancy for the price we paid, and was located right in the centre of the city so it was really easy to head back to through out the day! It also has an amazing rooftop where you can see the entire city from above. You can order drinks to here from the bar, or bring your own.

  • Take a gondola ride
  • Saint Mark’s Square and Basilica di San Marco
  • The Rialto Bridge
  • The Grand Canal
  • Burano Island – super colourful old fishing town
  • Palazzo Contarini de Bovolo

doge's palace in venice

Day 2: The day in Mantova

Otherwise known as Mantua, this beautiful town is located in Lombardy, around a 2 hour drive North West of Venice. The city is known for its Old Town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Mantova Basilica safeguards the vessels holding soil soaked by the blood of Christ, it is said that Longinus, the Roman soldier that speared Jesus on the cross, carried the soil from Palestine to Mantova and buried it here. So because of this, the city has quite a big religious history. Every year they throw a big parade where they honour the remains in the church.

The Old Town is really beautiful to walk around, especially in the late afternoon when all the restaurants and cafes are bustling with Aperitivo!

Where To Stay In Mantova

We stayed at Residensa Accamedia, it was a little random because the studio itself didn’t have a reception so you had to go to a different hotel to get the keys and then walk around to the apartments. But it was a really nice spot in the centre of the city, with a courtyard and an outside area!

Cost: €60 a night for a double room.

What to visit in Mantova:

  • Ducale Palace
  • Basilica di Sant’Andrea
  • St George’s Castle
  • Mantua Cathedral
  • Take a walk along the canal

mantova town centre

Where to Eat in Mantova, Italy

The best places in mantova for aperitivo.

Aperitivo is a time, usually between 4 and 6pm, where you go to a restaurant for a drink and usually get a plate of food or a snack bar included! This is THE BEST way to save money while you are travelling and still be able to live in luxury!

We loved Bar Venezia – with every Aperol Spritz we got a bowl of potato chips and a selection of canapes! They have a really beautiful outside area too!

We also stopped at Pane al Pane for breakfast and they had the most delicious sandwiches, pastries and home made pizzas!

The Best Restaurant in Mantova

We had such a hard time deciding between where to eat dinner, but we ended up at Ristorante Hosteria Leon d’Oro and it was DELICIOUS! We both had pasta dishes that are local to the area combined with a local wine and it was just perfect! I would recommend this place 100%!

Local Delicacies From Mantova

When we left our apartment, we were given a Torta Sbrisolona, a sort of Almond Oat Cake, famous to Lombardy! It’s something they sell in most shops and cafes and is something to try if you want to try the local culture.

view from citta de san marino over the countryside

Day 3: Visit San Marino

We hadn’t really planned to add this into our itinerary until a few weeks before our trip when we became totally obsessed with San Marino in the Eurovision song content. Serhat’s 2019 entry “Say Na Na Na” was something we sung non stop for weeks before and kind of persuaded us to visit San Marino. We spent the entire drive into the country listening to this song on repeat!

But in all seriousness, San Marino is a beautiful place to visit! It is a small country, completely surrounded by Italy, that is often forgotten by travellers in this region! The capital city, also called San Marino, sits on top of a big hill, surrounded by a hilly green landscape.

The Top Things To Do In San Marino

The majority of the best things to do are inside the Capital City. The best way to get here is to either park at the bottom of the city and take the cable car up, or drive up the hill and park in the massive multi story car park at the top!

When you arrive at the city, you are given a map with all the top sights, museums and walks on. The best way to explore San Marino from here is to walk up main pathway into the city and follow it around until you reach Monte Titano at the top of the hill!

view from citta de san marino over the countryside

Day 4: Visit the historical city of Urbino

Urbino is a quite a big, walled city in the West of Italy, just South of San Marino. It is a city with so much culture, as well as beauty! It’s worth spending a few days here so you can have time to explore the city, visit all the museums and spend time at the restaurants and markets! We really loved just strolling around the city, down all the narrow backstreets, enjoying the small town feel of it! This is a great stop for any Italy road trip if you want to discover a bit more of the culture of the land.

Where To Stay in Urbino

We stayed at Residenza Ambrogi , a luxury B&B just a few minutes walk from the city centre! It was quite expensive (€80 a night) but it was so beautiful! The lady who owned it was really lovely and brought us coffee and chocolate when we arrived. Breakfast was included, a variety of cold meats, breads, eggs, juices, and home made cakes! It really was amazing!

What to do in Urbino:

Palazzo Ducale di Urbino

Urbino Cathedral

Galleria Nazionale delle Marche

the cathedral in the centre of urbino walled city

The Best Restaurants In Urbino

Where to have aperitivo in italy.

We spent pretty much the whole afternoon in Urbino having Aperitivo, stopping at so many different restaurants to compare them! Our favourites were actually Caffè Degli Archi and Caffè Basili, two cafes right next to each other opposite Istituto Nazionale Previdenza Sociale. They both had a really great view and the drinks were delicious and cheap!

The best restaurants in Urbino

After much deliberation, wee ended up eating at Osteria Km 0 , a small hole in the wall restaurant that didn’t look like much, but the food and the service were both amazing!

We really wanted to eat at Tartufi Antiche Bontà but unfortunately it was closed on the night we were there! We have heard so many good reviews from here!

neon sign for the cinema in the centre of urbino in italy

Day 5: Drive around Urbino and Tuscany

Visit gola del furlo.

Gola Del Furlo is not a town, it is a beautiful green gorge that runs via the Ancient Roman Road Via Flaminia. It is such a pretty place to stop, or even just drive past!

Lago Trasimeno

I have actually been here twice – once on this road trip, and once around 15 years ago on a family holiday! When we first went, we found a beautiful spot where you could hire a pedalo and swim around! When we stopped their this time, we just found a small harbour at the end of a town where we sat and ate lunch and watched a storm roll in over the horizon! It was really beautiful!

Church of San Biagio

This is a really big, beautiful church on the outskirts of Montepulciano, Tuscany. You have to pay to go inside, but it is even worth visiting just to walk around the outside! The drive here is also so beautiful, the landscape is all rolling yellow and green hills, just like you imagine Tuscany to be!

places to visit between paris and rome

Bagni San Filippo – Picturesque Hot Springs just outside of Manciano, Tuscany

These are beautiful hot springs, about an hours drive out of Manciano! The area itself is about 400m long, different pools and waterfalls along the stretch making an amazing set of natural pools!

They are free to visit but you do have to pay for parking! The road down is often packed with cars so you should park as soon as you find a spot to avoid having to drive back up to the top! It gets really busy here in the summer time but if you go in the late afternoon or early morning you are more likely to have a pool to yourself!

Bagni San Filippo hot springs near manciano tuscany

Day 6: Visit Manciano

We arrived in Manciano quite late and didn’t really get so much time to explore! The main reason we stayed here was to visit Terme di Saturnia for the sunrise, when we knew it would not be busy! However, we ended up having so much fun at Bagni San Filippo, that we decided not to bother as we knew it was incredibly touristy! I hope to go back another year through!

If you are looking to visit Terme di Saturnia , it is about a 20 minute drive outside of Manciano. I have heard the best time to visit is in the morning as there are much less people around then!

places to visit between paris and rome

Where To Stay In Manciano

We stayed at the most incredible B&B in Manciano! Casale Giacomini , was more of a farm stay than a hotel, located on a big property just outside the town. The owners were Italian, with very little English, but they were both such beautiful people! Breakfast was included in the morning, and we ended up making good friends with the other guests staying there too as we shared an intimate breakfast table!

The garden is picturesque with the best view of Manciano. This was the best place we stayed between Venice and Rome and this alone made me want to do this Italy road trip every year!

The Best Pizza In Manciano

We just got takeaway pizza from Osée , which was a circus themed pizzeria just inside the town! The pizza was so tasty! We ended up just having their speciality, a flavour that won 2nd best pizza in the world 2001.

Casale Giacomini near manciano, italy

Visit the historical city of Pitigliano

Before driving to Rome, a great place to stop is the ancient city of Pitigliano. Pitigliano is an fairytale city, located on top of a sharp cliff with big city walls. It’s history dates back to prehistoric era, and there are also so many Etruscan and Roman traces to be seen. As you drive into the city you are met with rows of houses carved into the edge of a cliff.

Our favourite thing to do here was just walk around the city, exploring the sites of old ruins, and getting lost down narrow alleyways! If you are into history, there are so many museums and ruins here that are worth visiting!

We didn’t spend much time here, just stopping for a coffee and a walk on our way down to Rome, but I would love to go back in the future and really dive into the cultural side of the city!

the etruscan city of pitigliano carved out of the cliffs

Rounding off Venice to Rome: Road Trip through Tuscany, Italy

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the ultimate Italy road trip from Venice to Rome! And I hope that it can help you in your future travels!

If you have any questions of places that I should add next time we make the trip I would love to hear!

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May 26, 2020 at 2:44 pm

I would love a road trip across Italy 🙂 so this blog is perfect for me. Thank you for sharing all these great tips.

places to visit between paris and rome

May 28, 2020 at 7:01 am

It was genuinely the best trip I have done! You will love it!

places to visit between paris and rome

May 27, 2020 at 5:41 pm

Doing a road trip in Italy is serious goals! Would LOVE to do that 🙂 Also your photos are amazing Katie!

May 28, 2020 at 7:03 am

THANKS! This was one of my favourite trips I have ever done, I think it should be on top of everyones bucket list! 🙂

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Paris vs Rome: Which is Better to Visit? Detailed Comparison

Paris vs. Rome

Paris and Rome both attract a lot of tourists every year, and both are considered by many to be the “capital of romance and cuisine”. A stay in Paris can be very different from a stay in Rome, however.

In this article, we’ll give you details about both cities to help you decide which of these “stars” is right for your next vacation.

➡️ See you at the end for the final results!

Here’s a table that compares the weather in Paris and in Rome.

You can see each city’s average temperatures in January, April, July, and October, average rainfall , and sunshine rate (the number of hours of sun per year).

Rome is known as a sunny city with high temperatures even though it rains frequently during wintertime.

The weather in Paris is a little less pleasant, but the climate is a little more temperate .

For more information, here’s a website (in French) that sums up the weather data for each city.

+ 1⭐ for Rome (Rome’s highest temperatures are approximately 5.7°C (42.3°F) higher than Paris’).

Here’s a surface area recap table for Paris and Rome.

Rome has a much larger surface area than Paris with only a slightly larger population. Therefore, the number of inhabitants per km² is much smaller.

+ 1 ⭐ for Rome (The population density is much smaller, which makes strolling around easier.)

Cleanliness

Paris isn’t known for being the cleanest city.

Thanks to the graffiti on the walls , the trash on the streets , the dog excretion throughout the city, and the subway’s dirtiness , the city is usually perceived as stained.

But just as in any big city, the cleanliness depends on the part of the city you are in .

Tourist areas like the Champs Elysées are cleaned by private service providers and are given priority over other parts of the city.

Rome isn’t a paragon of cleanliness either.

This fact has become increasingly visible in the last few years. The government’s recent fight against organized crime has impacted both the perception of Rome’s cleanliness and its actual cleanliness.

Many contracts with cleaning companies were terminated during the legal battles, which has led to terrible looking streets.

Dumpsters are filled to the brim and trash can be found all over the streets. But, thankfully, tourist areas ( Trastevere , Centro Storico , Ostie …) have been largely unaffected.

+ 1⭐ for Paris (In general, the City of Lights is a little bit cleaner.)

Courtesy of the Locals

Paris’ fame has nothing to do with its inhabitants’ friendliness or kindness.

Parisians are usually described as impolite and unfriendly .

Romans are perceived as friendly , easy-going, and full of heart .

There are some exceptions, of course, but overall they are sympathetic and welcoming .

+ 1⭐ for Rome (For the smiles and the dolce vita )

Cost of living

Here’s a table that shows the average cost of living (food, housing, transportation, etc.) in both cities.

+ 1⭐ for Rome (The cost of living in Italy is 9.7% less than it is in France)

Public Transportation

Buses and subways in paris.

Subway stations in Paris

In Paris, the subway has 16 lines and 302 stops , and one fare costs €1.90.

During the week, the first subway leaves at 5:30 am and the last one is around midnight . On Fridays and during the weekend, the subway runs until 1 am.

Parisian buses have 316 lines and over 12,000 stops .

The city is divided into areas , and each area has its own prices.

The city’s public transportation service offers several different packages that allow you to ride any kind of public transportation: the subway , RER , buses, the tramway, and trains .

  • For example, with a Navigo monthly or weekly travel pass , you can travel as much as you want in all of your chosen zones . The Navigo Weekly’s price starts at €19.85, and the Navigo Monthly starts at €65.20.
  • The Navigo Liberté + pass costs €1.49. What is great about this ticket is that it has a daily cap of €7.50 , which means that no matter how many times you travel, at the end of the day, you will never pay more than €7.50.
  • For visitors who want to travel as much as they want for one to five days, the Paris Visite travel pass is perfect. With this pass, the price for a one day pass starts at €12, 3 days starts at €26.65, and 5 days starts at €38.35.

Buses and Subways in Rome

In Rome, the subway is composed of 3 lines , which is a lot fewer than most other large European cities:

  • Line A (the orange line) goes from western Rome, near the Vatican, to the working-class suburbs of southeastern Rome.
  • Line B (the blue line) travels across the city from the northeast to the southeast.
  • Line C (the green line) covers all of eastern and southeastern Rome.

The subway runs from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm (last departure) during the week and from 5:30 am to 1:30 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Several different subway tickets are available:

  • The Roma 24 Hour Ticket (€7) gives you unlimited access to all public transportation for 24 hours starting from the time you punch it.
  • The Roma 48 Hour Ticket (€12.50) gives you the same benefits as the 24 hour ticket, but for 48 hours starting from the time you punch it.
  • The Roma 72 Hour Ticket (€18) gives you unlimited access to public transportation for 72 hours starting from the time you punch it.
  • The Integrated Weekly Card ( Biglietto Settimanale CIS – €24 ) is a ticket that you can use for an entire week starting from the time you punch it on all public transportation without restrictions.

Rome also has 240 bus lines and 6 tramway lines . One fare costs €1.50.

The main lines run from 5 am to midnight , and the night bus starts running at 5:30 pm.

You can distinguish between the different bus lines by the letters that they display. The letter U represents a standard bus, the letter X is for an express bus, the letter E is for a bus that only runs at specific hours (these are rarely seen in the city), and the nocturnal lines are marked by the color black .

CAUTION: Tickets can’t be purchased on the bus. You have to purchase them beforehand at a train or subway station or at a tobacco store.

➡️ We encourage you to download the Moovit app (available in French) in case you get lost. It will help you find a bus stop and allow you to see the time schedules of the buses.

Summary table of the buses and subways in each city:

Bicycles in paris.

places to visit between paris and rome

Vélib’ is a bicycle rental system in Paris. There are 1,400 stations and approximately 20,000 bicycles , 35% of which are electric. Several different passes are available for this service:

  • The Pass V-Découverte (valid for 24h) and the Pass V-Séjour (valid for 7 days) each allow you to use up to 5 Vélib’ simultaneously .
  • For local users, other passes like the V-Plus are available.

Here are the prices of the different passes:

  • Pass V-Découverte and Pass V-Séjour : For a 30-minute ride, you will pay less than €1. To extend your ride to 60 minutes, you will pay an extra €1 or €2. Beyond 60 minutes, you pay an additional €1 or €2 for every 30 minutes.
  • The bike rental costs €5 with a Pass V-Découverte and €15 with a Pass V-Séjour.

Bicycles in Rome

The city does not provide bicycles.

You can, however, find companies who offer rental bicycles and scooters. You generally just have to download the company’s app, scan the QR code, and pay (usually by the minute).

The longer you use a bike, the more expensive it is (with the LIME bicycles, 25 minutes can cost up to €7.50). If you want to go on a long ride, renting a bicycle might not be the best option.

The most popular bicycle rental companies in Rome are Dott , LIME , and JUMP .

+ 1⭐ for Paris (Public transportation is more present and more advantageous in Paris.)

Paris has more than 150 museums , 70 public libraries , 400 cinemas , and approximately 130 theaters .

places to visit between paris and rome

Even though some museums are free (the Musée d’Art Moderne , the Maison de Balzac (does not include exhibitions), and the Maison de Victor Hugo ), you will need to pay to visit most of them.

Discounted entry fees are available to certain people, including people between 18 and 26 years old , students , and owners of the “Paris Pass Famille” or “Famille nombreuse” cards. Minors under the age of 17 , jobseekers , and people who receive minimum social benefits can access the museums without purchasing tickets.

(Click here for further information).

Here is a list of museums in Paris that are definitely worth visiting:

The Louvre Museum : with a surface area of 210,000 m², the Louvre is the biggest museum in Paris . Discover the eight different areas of the museum, including Egyptian Antiquities, Sculptures, and Works of Art. Every period and almost every era are represented. Take your time and admire the famous Mona Lisa , the Venus de Milo , or the Louvre’s Pyramid .

Price: €15. Conditions for free access are given here .

The Grévin Museum is home to 200 celebrity-inspired wax figures . Take a closer look at Lady Gaga , Louis Armstrong, George Clooney , Barack Obama , or even Charles de Gaulle.

Price: between €17 and €25 per ticket.

The National Museum of Natural History is the perfect mix of museums , galleries , gardens , and zoos . Discover the Garden of Plants for free, the Museum of Mankind for €10, or the Paris Zoological Park for €20.

Price: free, €10, or €20 (depending on the areas you visit)

The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is full of interactive exhibitions. In this museum, you can take part in experiments centered around volcanoes, the oceans, and space.

Price: around €8

Historical Monuments

Eiffel Tower

In Paris, there are many different historical monuments to visit. The Eiffel Tower is perhaps the most famous of them.

Price: between €10.50 and €26.10

You can also admire the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs Elysées on the Place de l’Etoile .

We also recommend visiting the Notre-Dame de Paris’ Cathedral , the Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre Basilica , or the Pantheon (prices start at around €11.50).

Galeries Lafayette

In Paris, most stores are open from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, Monday to Saturday . Some of the larger stores like the Galeries Lafayette or Printemps stay open until 8 or 8:30 pm . There aren’t many stores open on Sundays; the only ones that are open are on the Champs Elysées or in tourist areas (these are generally open from 11 am to 7 pm).

With 3,500 international brands in a 70,000 m² shopping center, the Galeries Lafayette is one of the must-visit shopping places in Paris. In addition to numerous boutiques (both luxury and more affordable ones) , you will find restaurants and cultural events.

And don’t forget about the luxury shopping center Printemps Haussmann , which is spread across 3 buildings and 27 floors !

Theme and Amusement Parks

Disneyland Paris

If you’re looking for to have some fun, there are many different theme parks in and near Paris: the Parc Astérix , the Mer de Sable with its Wild West feel, and Disneyland Paris .

Rome is home to more than 18 museums  and around 1,400 theaters .

Vatican

Here are a few of the museums we recommend visiting:

The Vatican has been the heart and soul of Christianity for over 1,500 years. In addition to having great historical importance, the Vatican Museums house tens of thousands of stunning works of art that were created over the centuries.

Rome is also home to one of the biggest art collections in the world: the Capitoline Museums . These museums aren’t just tied to Rome’s history; they also played a part when the EU (the European Communities) were first founded.

The MACRO (Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome) is the perfect place to view stunning pictures and artwork from the 1960’s.

Price: free, except for some temporary exhibitions

The Colosseum and the Roman Forum are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. The Colosseum, where gladiators once fought, is a well-known symbol of the city, while the Roman Forum proves how big the city was during the days of the Ancient Empire. These areas have been central to people’s lives for millennia. Even today, the ruins stand strong and seem to be located right where downtown used to be.

Trajan Market

Trajan’s Market was built between 107 and 110 AD. The complex had offices, warehouses, and stores and was Roman citizens’ favorite place to shop and do business.

The Palais Altemps (link in French) is one of the four buildings of the National Roman Museum. Dating back to the 16th century, the Palazzo is a unique site in itself. The loggia , the stunning indoor court, the paintings on the walls, and the baroque-style church (that takes visitors back in time) all contribute to its astonishing beauty.

Piazza Venezia

Most stores in Rome are open from 10 am to 2 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm from Monday to Saturday (the stores on the main streets don’t have mid-afternoon closures ). Most of the stores and shopping centers are also open on Sundays.

The Via del Corso is probably the busiest street in Rome. It extends from the Piazza Venezia to the Piazza del Popolo .

Here you will find some of the most famous brands like Zara , H&M , and Mango alongside smaller and more affordable Italian stores.

The Monti district is perfect for people who are interested in a vintage feel. You will find vintage stores and thrift stores as well as craftsmen and designers from whom you can purchase atypical clothes and accessories . The prices are usually pretty high, but the beauty of such unique pieces is definitely worth it.

You can also take a stroll around the historic center of Rome, which has no lack of stores.

Theme Parks

Une publication partagée par Cinecittà World (@cinecittaworld)

Cinecittà World focuses on the cinematic world and is the biggest theme park in Italy with a surface area of 140 hectares.

In this park, you’ll experience complete immersion: reliving scenes from the greatest movies ( Gangs of New-York , Ben-Hur , or even Dante’s Inferno ), visiting a submarine from the Second World War, passing by movie projections, and enjoying thrill rides.

The park is open from March to November.

Price: from €15 to €35

+ 1⭐ for both Paris and Rome (Both offer a wide selection of heritage sites, museums, and activities.)

Jules Verne Paris

Talking about Paris without mentioning its cuisine is impossible. The French capital is considered an place of elite eating due to the many Michelin-starred restaurants it contains (around 115 restaurants ).

If you want to try some of Paris’ specialties, here are a few dishes you should definitely taste:

  • The croque-monsieur or croque-madame : this oven-baked sandwich consists of a slice of ham placed between two pieces of buttered sandwich bread and a layer of grated cheese . The only difference between the two is that a croque-madame has an egg on top.
  • The tournedos Rossini is a piece of red meat served on a slice of toast with a slice of foie gras and slivers of truffles.

Paris is also known for its variety of pastries. Here are a few that are worth trying:

  • The millefeuille is made from a puff pastry and pastry cream and can be recognized by its chevron glaze.
  • The opéra is made with Joconde biscuits (similar to a sponge cake), coffee, and chocolate buttercream.
  • The Saint-Honoré is made with pie crust and cream puffs and is topped with caramel and either pastry cream or whipped cream.

Une publication partagée par La Gazette 🤍 (@lagazetteparis)

If you’d like to try some Parisian restaurants , there is something on this list that will suit every personality and every budget:

  • L’Archimède is located near the Saint-Martin Canal and offers some of the most refined French dishes (like beef filet or sea bream) at very reasonable prices .

Price: around €30

  • La Gazette (link in French) in the 16th arrondissement serves a variety of French dishes. For your main course, you can choose between a salmon filet and a rib steak . You can also taste mixed berries pavlova or a poached William pear for dessert.

Price: around €40

  • At Le Loulou Montmartre , you can admire Paris’ rooftops while savoring black pudding with apple and cinnamon , duck with butternut and maple syrup, or roasted Camembert with honey.

Price: around €20

  • The restaurant Le Jules Verne is located on the Eiffel Tower’s second floor and allows you to enjoy Chef Frederic Anton’s finest creations.

Price: from €35 to €230

If you want to have one of the best pastries in Paris , here are a couple places you should try:

Stohrer Bakery

  • At the Pâtisserie des Martyrs de Sébastien Gaudard (link in French), you can discover sweet and tasty pastries like religieuse (cream puffs), eclairs , or caramelized choux .
  • The Pâtisserie Stohrer is the oldest one in Paris, making it the perfect place to savor traditional pastries like rum babas.

places to visit between paris and rome

With dishes like pasta, pizza, mozzarella di buffala , risotto , carpaccio , arancini , cheeses, and much more, Italian cuisine is one of the finest in the world. Italy has as many specialties as it has regions (if not more).

If you visit Rome, there are a few dishes you shouldn’t miss out on:

  • Pizza Bianca : originally called “ panis focacius ” , this dish is made with pizza dough that has been seasoned with herbs, soaked in olive oil, and baked in a traditional oven.
  • Carciofi alla Romana : Rome is known for the quality of its artichokes, and it is common to see dishes with artichokes in them. In this traditional dish, artichokes are stuffed and cooked in a pan with wine.
  • Paste alla Carbonara : in Rome, carbonara sauce is traditionally drizzled over penne pasta, not spaghetti.
  • Paste Bucatini all’Amatriciana : this recipe comes from a nearby mountain region and is named after the city Amatriciana . The pasta is served with tomatoes, smoked pork belly, and grated pecorino.

Rome also has some well-known desserts that you should try:

  • The most famous of all is Tiramisu . It’s the perfect mix of mascarpone cream, cocoa, and coffee. To taste the absolute best tiramisu, try the one from Pompi (website in Italian).
  • Crostata di Ricotta comes from the Judeo-Roman tradition. This traditional ricotta pie is exquisite, especially the one from Forno Boccione (website in French).
  • Pasticcini are the cute little cookies that Italians usually eat on Sundays. They are traditionally made with almonds, but nowadays many different flavors of pasticcini can be found.
  • Torrone Romano : this Roman nougat is even more delicious than French nougat . It is made with pistachios, almonds, pine nuts, and chocolate.
  • Gelato is Rome’s number one must-eat treat. Any good tourist will spend a little time strolling the streets with a gelato in hand. For the most authentic gelato, we recommend Giolitti .

If you want to eat in a Roman restaurant, this list has something to suit every personality and every budget:

Une publication partagée par Layla Nia McStay 🌶LAFoodieGirl (@lafoodiegirl)

  • The Carbonara (website in Italian): this restaurant near the Via Panisperna will tickle your taste buds. You can choose from several copious meals – the fresh pastas and the tiramisu are said to be especially delicious. Just be sure to arrive before 8 pm to ensure that you can get a table!

Price: from €25 to €30

  • The Taverna dei Fiori Imperiali : located in the Via della Madonna dei Monti , this restaurant is a family business. From the kitchen to your table, you’ll discover top-quality Roman cuisine. The carbonara pastas served are quite unique!

Price: from €15 to €30

  • The Agrodolce (website in Italian) is located right next to the Fontaine de Trévise and is so famous that you need to book a table in advance. Its cuisine is considered top-notch in Rome, its prices are very affordable, and the friendly and romantic atmosphere is superb.

Price: from €15 to €25

  • The Taverna Angelica is located right next to the Vatican and will help you avoid all the nearby tourist traps. It has a charming terrace and its food, particularly the truffle risotto and the clam pasta, is simply delicious.

Price: from €30 to €50

  • Pizza e Mozzarella (website in French) is THE place if you want to eat great pizza. Ideally located next to the Panthéon , it is the perfect place to appreciate the city’s monuments and food all at once.

Price: €13 for 3 slices of pizzas and 2 drinks

+ 1⭐ for both Rome and Paris (You can find many dishes and restaurants in both cities, however, it seems like the ones in Rome are a little more expensive than the ones in Paris).

Here is a table summarizing the hotels in Paris and in Rome:

If you wish to compare individual hotels’ prices, you can use this French website to do so.

Une publication partagée par Renaissance Paris Vendôme (@renaissancevendome)

Here are a few of the best affordable hotels in Paris:

  • The Hôtel des Batignolles (3-star hotel) is located near the Montmartre district.

Price: from €55

  • The Hôtel Clairefontaine (3-star hotel) is near the Paris-Montparnasse train station. The hotel’s common room is a perfect place for tourists to gather.

Price: a Double Room starts at €70 (during off-peak seasons) or €80 (during high seasons)

  • The Hôtel du Maine (2-star hotel) is located near the subway station.

Price: from €75

Here are some of our favorite high-end hotels in Paris:

  • The Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme (5-star hotel) is located near the Opera. You’ll get to enjoy a tasty meal at the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Pur during your stay.

Price: from €689

  • The Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal (5-star hotel) is located in the 1st arrondissement near the Louvre Museum . Some rooms have a private balcony and you’ll have access to a spa area and a gym .

Price: from €370 (during off-peak seasons) or €420 (during high seasons)

  • The Renaissance Paris Vendôme Hôtel (5-star hotel) is located next to the Jardin des Tuileries and the subway . Some of the rooms have a private balcony, and you’ll have access to a fitness center .

Price: a Double Room starts at €350

In Rome, just like in many capitals, hotels can be a bit pricey. Here is our list of hotels that will fit any budget.

Here are our favorite hotels that are a bit more affordable :

  • The Nerva Boutique Hotel is within walking distance of the Piazza Venezia and the shopping street of Via Del Corso . This hotel is probably one of the friendliest you will find.

Price: from €59

  • Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori is the perfect romantic hotel. The terrace is decorated with wicker furniture and offers a panoramic view of Rome.

Price: from €47

  • The Generator Rome is located near the Termini station and is one of the classiest hostels to stay at.
  • The Hotel Modigliani is one of the most popular affordable hotels in the Piazza Barberini district of Rome’s historic center.

Price: €117

Une publication partagée par Villa Agrippina, Gran Meliá (@villaagrippinagm)

Here is our list of more luxurious hotels in Rome:

  • Hotel 87 eighty-seven : located five minutes away from the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and the Quirinale Palace, this hotel is perfect if you can’t choose between relaxing in a hot tub or on a terrace. If neither the hot tub or the sauna are your cup of tea, you can try the thalassotherapy tub.

Price: from €137

  • Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá : located 10 minutes away from the Trastevere district and 800m away from Saint-Peter’s Basilica, this place is ideal for sunbathing on a deckchair near a large pool. You can relax in one of the hotel’s two pools . One of them is in a huge garden and has a hydromassage option.

Price: from €499

  • Le St. Regis Rome : this historical palace from 1894 was the first luxury hotel in Rome . It is a 15-minute walk away from the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain and is near the Piazza della Repubblica .

Price: from €552

  • Hotel Vilòn : next to the Borghese Palace, this boutique hotel was an all-girls school during the 16th Century. The Art Deco features of the hotel make it a wonderful safe haven.

Price: from €658

+ 1⭐ for Rome (Overall, the value for the money is better in Rome than in Paris.)

Paris has more Airbnbs available than any other city in Europe. You will find around 60,000 accommodations in Paris compared to around 25,000 in Rome .

Most of the Airbnbs in both cities are condos , but you can always find houses as well.

If you’re looking for good accommodations at a very reasonable price , here are a couple of the best:

  • This contemporary and simply decorated condo is located in the 18th arrondissement.

Price: from €88

  • This private room with a big terrace is only a few kilometers away from the Eiffel Tower!

Price: from €60

If you prefer a little more privacy, here are a couple independent accommodations:

  • This colorful but minimalistic studio isn’t too far from the Grands Boulevards .

Price: from €133

  • This renovated condo has a cozy atmosphere and is located in the 5th arrondissement .

Price: from €170

Here are a couple of affordable Airbnbs in Rome:

  • This independent studio is located in downtown Rome. It can accommodate up to two people and is usually booked by couples who are looking for cozy romance.

Price: from €89

  • This simply designed loft offers a stunning view of the mountains.

Price: from €92

If you prefer staying in an independent Airbnb to maintain your privacy, here are some of our favorites in Rome:

  • This vintage house is nestled in the Trastevere district and is perfect for two people.

Price: from €144

  • This condo is located near the Trevi Fountain and has a terrace, making it the perfect place for couples.

Price: from €197

  • This luxurious condo can welcome up to six people and is probably the fanciest Airbnb you can book in Rome (to book it, you have to stay at least two nights).

Price: from €126

+ 1 ⭐ for Paris (There are many more Airbnbs in Paris, allowing you to stay somewhere that gives you a good value for your money regardless of your budget.)

Rome vs Paris: 🏆 And The Winner Is…

Here’s a score table of the stars that were handed out in this article:

Paris: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rome: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

When it comes to history, heritage, activities, and food, each of these capitals has more than enough.

It seems that, overall, Rome has better weather and a lower cost of living than Paris. Yes, there is less public transportation and housing, but the fact that Rome is less crowded makes the atmosphere of the city more enjoyable and therefore offers a better quality of life.

The only negative point we really noticed is the cleanliness of the city. On this point, the City of Lights wins over the City of Seven Hills.

If you need help deciding which city to visit between Paris and London, click here !

Mona

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

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places to visit between paris and rome

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London Paris Rome Itinerary by JetSettingFools.com

15-Day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary

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When my mom and sister revealed their zealous plans for their 15-day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary, I was curious how they planned their European trip (and, to be honest, I was skeptical that they would be able to pull it off). Creating a 15 Days in Europe Itinerary to these top three cities is no easy feat. 

Although we have visited all three destinations over multiple trips, we have never been to all three in a short two weeks. Intrigued by their ambitiously planned London, Paris, Rome tour, I wanted to know exactly how they devised their route and the details of their day-by-day itinerary. 

Why Plan a London, Paris Rome Trip? 

A London, Paris, Rome vacation is a bucket list trip. These cities rank as top worldwide destinations – alongside places like New York City , San Francisco and Bangkok . The difference is that London, Paris and Rome are relatively close together, which allows travelers to see all three in a short amount of time…but only with a solid trip plan. 

Unlike me, who wants to travel to eternity, my family approached their trip as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit these cities. It would be Tracy’s (my sister) first trip to Europe and Dianne’s (my mom) second trip (although, it would be her first time to London and Rome). They packed their 15-Day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary to the brim…and then heaped on a bit more for good measure.

15-Day London, Rome, Paris Itinerary JetSetting Fools Pin It

How To Plan a Trip from London to Paris to Rome

I was fascinated, not only by the sightseeing they were able to accomplish with their 15-day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary, but also by how efficiently they were able to do so. For the first-time traveler to Europe or for the traveler who only anticipates ever going once, it’s an ideal itinerary that succinctly hits all the major sights and then some.

Breaking from our typical style of travel tips, we are presenting a Q&A regarding their diligent planning and execution of their trip abroad. Because they had detailed documentation, they are sharing their pre-trip preparation, experiences abroad, post-trip thoughts and a detailed account of their 15-Day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary Day-by-Day (including links!).

Fellow travelers planning self guided tours of London, Paris, Rome can use the tips from their experience to help plan their own perfect European trip. We also recommend using Travel Planning Printables to help you stay organized and reading our guide to plan your European Vacation !

Are There London, Paris, Rome Tours?

Absolutely! While it is possible to plan your own 2-Week London, Paris, Rome vacation (and my family is proof!), it does take an enormous amount of time and effort to create a seamless trip plan. 

Travelers can opt to tour London, Paris, Rome with a professional sightseeing tour group. The London, Paris, Italy vacation packages are planned by professionals – so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the sights! 

Young travelers – aged 18-35 – can start by searching Contiki . The company specializes in travel for young adults and offers fun and affordable London, Paris, Rome tour packages. 

Travelers of any age can find a Rome, London Paris vacation package with a reliable company – like Trafalgar Tours . 

Before scoffing at a tour for being too expensive, we recommend pricing out the London, Paris, Rome vacation packages versus the cost of planning your own 15 Days Europe Tour Itinerary to see the cost difference. 

If you do decide to plan your Rome, Paris, London trip on your own, read on for detailed trip planning tips! 

London, Paris, Rome Itinerary: Pre-Trip Preparation

Pre-trip preparation is key to planning a trip to London, Paris and Italy – and they shared some of the steps they took to ensure their trip went off without a hitch.

How did you decide where to go and how much time to spend in each place?

Our European vacation was nearly three years in the making. A year and a half prior to the trip, we started checking out travel books from the library. Tracy read them cover-to-cover. Eight months out, we began researching flights. Five months prior to departure, we were booking accommodations.

We discussed our itinerary at length. We were constrained by Tracy’s limited time off work, but were determined to fit as much as we possibly could into our trip. We focused on the must-see cities and their best-known sights.

We originally created a London, Paris Italy Itinerary that included Florence and Venice. However, in the planning stages, we felt the time we would have to spend actually traveling between the cities was too much. We settled on Europe’s Big Three: London, Paris and Rome – with five nights in each city.

What luggage did you carry? Were you happy with what you packed?

We debated whether a backpack or suitcase would be better to tour London, Paris, Rome. Although I have traveled through Europe with a backpack before, we decided to use roller suitcases for this trip. We each had one large checked roller bag and a carry-on backpack. Our carry-on backpacks served as a daypack as we explored the cities.

We knew our 15-Day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary was ambitious and wanted to make sure we were as prepared as possible, so we ended up bringing things that we didn’t use. In our packing list , we packed too many shirts and warmer clothes (as we traveled in the autumn) and a lot of just-in-case medications. However, we are still glad we had them with us and wouldn’t have left anything behind.

Did you buy or use any specific travel gadgets or guides?

We purchased adapters and a converter. The adapters were essential, but the converter did not work properly and it turned out we didn’t really need one.

We always used our money belts and bra stashes and were glad we purchased them for our trip. Since we are not seasoned travelers, it made us feel more safe to have our money and important documents with us at all times and concealed beneath our clothing.

The guide book we used was Rick Steves’ Best of Europe . We tore out and carried only the information we needed for the cities we were visiting.

Of the entire trip, what were you most looking forward to?

We were really intent on checking off all the sights on our list. It might end up being my (Dianne’s) last trip and Tracy’s only trip to Europe. We didn’t want to miss a single sight that appealed to us.

London, Paris, Rome: Experiences By City

Travelers who plan a 2-Week London, Paris, Rome Itinerary will want to consider what they want to experience in each city. 

What London sights did you see?

The British Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Tower of London, The Monument, Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace, Thames River Cruise, Greenwich (Royal Observatory and Maritime Museum), Big Ben, Westminster Bridge, London Eye, Piccadilly Circus, Soho, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament (and viewed sessions), 10 Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery, Covent Garden, Kensington Palace, Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park (including the Princess Diana Memorial), Wellington Arch, Westminster Cathedral and the National Library.

We did not see the Natural History Museum or walk Abbey Road. We could not Visit The Sky Garden because, while it is free to enter, prior reservations are required and we hadn’t made them.

What was the food like in London?

We ate a variety of food in London , from high tea to street food. We most enjoyed the food in Chinatown. Our high tea experience (which included sandwiches, sweets and a prosecco finish) was one of our most memorable dining experiences.

Where did you stay in London?

We stayed at the European Hotel for its close proximity to King’s Cross Station (which provided access to the entire city and even the Chunnel to Paris). The hotel offered a complimentary traditional English breakfast that included a lot of protein, which was a nice way to start the day. The rooms were much smaller than we had anticipated…and the bathroom was shockingly small, but sufficient. Also, the electricity and wifi were sometimes unreliable.

Any other recommendations for London?

The best way to see a lot of the city in an economical way is to purchase a weekly National Train paper pass. It allows visitors to use 2-for-1 vouchers for all the major sights – as well as transportation on the Tube and buses.

What were your highlights of London?

The Tower of London (with the Beefeater’s Tour), Kensington Palace and high tea.

Find more tips for sightseeing in our complete London Itinerary !

Paris, France

Sacre Coeur Basilica in Paris, France

What sights did you see in Paris?

Musee du Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Musee d’Orsay, Musee de l’Orangerie, Place de la Concorde, Champs-Elysees, Arc de Triomphe, Versailles Chateau and Gardens (including the Grand and Petit Trianons of Marie-Antoinette’s Estate), Moulin Rouge (including a show), Notre Dame Cathedral and Tower, Sainte Chapelle, Conciergerie, The Latin Quarter, The Pantheon, Luxembourg Gardens, St. Sulpice Church, Seine River Tour, Trocadero Gardens, Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees, Parc du Champs de Mars, Hotel des Invalides (Tomb of Napoleon), Musee Rodin, Montmartre, Sacre-Coeur, Pigalle (red light district) and Saint-Martin Canal.

What was the food like in Paris?

We ate quick food on-the-go a lot in Paris. Our favorite place to grab breakfast and lunch was at Paul, a bakery which has multiple locations. We had street crepes a few times and especially liked the Nutella crepes at Montmartre.

The Saint-Martin Canal neighborhood offered a wide variety of quaint cafes and restaurants. Our two favorite meals in the area were a savory buckwheat crepe at Lulu’s Creperies and a wild boar and chestnut stew at La Patache.

Where did you stay in Paris?

We stayed in a charming flat in an old building on the Saint-Martin Canal, which we found through Airbnb . It was nice to have the extra space and a washer/dryer (as we needed to do laundry by then!). It was well-situated in a residential neighborhood, but close to Gare de l’Est where we could access the Metro.

Any other recommendations for Paris?

We highly recommend the Paris Museum Pass (not to be confused with the Paris Pass). It offers entry into all the major sights in and around Paris at a reasonable cost. With the pass, we could enter certain sights to see just the highlights and not feel like we had to stay to get our money’s worth.

The best value for transportation around Paris is the weekly (calendar week only Monday through Sunday) Navigo Pass, which was good for the Metro, buses and trains (even the train to Versailles and the airport!).

What were your highlights of Paris?

Sainte Chappelle, Conciergerie, Musee Rodin, and the Tower of Notre Dame.

Read about our tips for sightseeing in this Paris Itinerary !

Rome, Italy

St. Peter's Basilica on St. Peter's Square in Vatican City, Rome, Italy

What sights did you see in Rome?

Piazza del Popolo, Villa Borghese Gardens, Villa Medici, Circus Maximus, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum, Colosseum, Piazza Venezia, Victor Emmanuel and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, The Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica and Square, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. John Lateran, Scala Sancta (Holy Stairs), Capitoline Museum, Bocca della Verita, Trastevere neighborhood, Piazza Santa Maria, Basilica di Santa Maria, Tiber Island, the Old Jewish neighborhood, Campo dei Fiori, Piazza Navona.

We did not make it to Ostia Antica nor Ostia di Lido (the beach on the Mediterranean).

What was the food like in Rome?

Hello Gelato! We ate gelato every day, because when in Rome… We also ate a lot of pizza, both at sidewalk cafes and where they scissor-cut the slices and sell them by weight.

Our best meal was at a little family-run restaurant in the Trastevere neighborhood. The chef used family recipes that had been handed-down through several generations.

Where did you stay in Rome?

We stayed in a small B&B in a very safe neighborhood, Salario, on the north side of the city. It was recently renovated and spacious. However, due to our delayed flight and unclear directions to the B&B, our late arrival (after midnight) resulted in a deplorable welcome from the host. Unfortunately, encounters like that are carried throughout the rest of the stay and sadly gave us a negative impression of Romans in general.

Any other recommendations for Rome?

What we would NOT recommend is the OMNIA Pass. We thought it would speed up our sightseeing by eliminating standing in long lines, but it never worked out that way. It was expensive ($109), included things we didn’t use and although it promised front-of-line entry, required longer waiting times than those with regular entry tickets.

Alternatively, we could have purchased the combo pass to the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill (Cost: $13.50) from the shortest ticket lines at the Palatine Hill entrance on Via di San Gregorio and then we could skip the ticket line at the Colosseum.

In addition, we could have bought our ticket to the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, online (Cost: $22) and skipped the lines there, too. (The OMNIA Pass could possibly be to an advantage in the high season, though).

What were your highlights of Rome?

St. Peter’s Basilica and the many ruins throughout the city, although the most impressive were those at the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. We really enjoyed the time we spent walking through the Rome neighborhoods and piazzas.

Find more tips for sightseeing in our Rome Itinerary !

European Trip Thoughts

Before planning your London, Paris, Rome tour, these are a few things you might want to consider. 

How much did you spend on your European Trip? Did you have a budget? Did you stick to it?

The total cost of our trip was $2550 each, just $50 more than we had budgeted. That amount includes everything we spent during our vacation – the flight and all transportation abroad, accommodations, food, drink, tours, passes, entertainment, souvenirs…everything!

We researched and carefully determined how to do our trip on a budget without missing any of the sights we wanted to see. For hardcore sightseers, like us, we found the city passes to the sights and public transportation passes to be quite beneficial financially.

We also were able to find entertainment deals on major websites (like Viator  and Get Your Guide ). We weren’t on a mission to spend as little as possible, but we were budget conscious and feel that the price we paid was well-worth the trip.

It should be noted that we found majorly discounted airline tickets from Toronto rather than from our home city in the United States. Therefore, we tacked on a mini-vacation to Canada on each end of our European trip, which is also included in the total cost of the trip (which, all-inclusive, was still less than if we had paid the more expensive airfare from our home city).

What about your European Trip exceeded your expectations?

We were pleasantly surprised that everything went pretty much according to plan, but perhaps that is because we were so diligent in our planning. The specific sights that exceeded our expectations (although, not necessarily top-of-the-list things to do) are:

London – The British Library, the National Gallery, House of Commons session, afternoon tea

Paris – Sainte Chapelle, Musee Rodin, Conciergerie

Rome – Palatine Hill, Capitoline Museum

What were your biggest disappointments on your European Trip?

London – Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. We spent too much time there and even though we arrived an hour and half before the event, we were unable to get close enough to really see. While standing in the sea of people, we felt like prime targets for pickpockets!

Paris – The interior of Versailles Chateau. It was over-crowded with a lot of people elbowing their way through. The rooms everyone was pushing to see were pretty, but not all that impressive to us for the hassle involved in seeing them. However, the Mesdames section, the gardens and the Trianons were worth seeing.

Rome – The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. After spending several hours in the Vatican Museum, we were underwhelmed by the time we got to the Sistine Chapel. The small area was packed and a booming voice coming from speakers reminded guests that pictures were not allowed (although many blatantly disregarded the message and took photos anyway, which we thought was quite rude). We were expecting to be wowed, but instead felt like cattle being corralled. It wasn’t the experience we were anticipating.

What did you find difficult about traveling in Europe?

The language barrier in Paris and Rome made communication in those cities trying, especially as we were there for such a short time and had a full itinerary planned.

Rome was also an extremely difficult city to get around in using public transportation. The buses were always crowded and the Metro stations were few and far between. It would have been better if we had stayed closer to the sights or near a Metro station.

What was easier than you thought it would be?

The lines to get into the sights were not as long as we had anticipated. Of course, it helped that we were traveling in the shoulder season (mid-October).

What would you have done differently on your Trip To Europe?

We would have planned our travel between cities for early morning as it would have made getting acquainted with the new city much easier. More specifically, we would not again plan to arrive to a city after dark.

Also, it would have been extremely beneficial to have been able to use our mobile phones. We should have purchased an international data plan or purchased a WiFi pocket device for our time abroad so that we could have used them when we really needed to.

Additionally, we wish we had planned more time to simply walk the neighborhoods, relax in the parks and piazzas and enjoy people-watching from the cafes.

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15-Day London, Paris, Rome Itinerary Day-by-Day

Prices indicated are in U.S. dollars and were accurate at time of trip; entry fees and tickets indicate the cost per person, accommodations indicate the total cost of the lodging. If cost is not listed, it is a public, outdoor space or a sight viewed only from the outside.

Day 1 – Arrive in London

Big Ben, Parliament, London, England, UK

Arrive in London mid-morning.

  • Purchase public transportation passes ( National Rail Paper Tickets , weekly pass, $46, passport picture required – 2-for-1 vouchers printed prior to travel) and check in to the European Hotel ($620 for 5 nights)
  • Late Lunch on the go
  • The British Museum ( Free )– Highlights: Rosetta Stone, mummies, pill display
  • St. Paul’s Cathedral ( Entry Fee: $26, used 2-for-1 pass| Time: 3-4 hours ) – Highlights: whispering wall on balcony, tower, Princess Diana’s wedding, Florence Nightingale
  • Lunch on the go
  • Tower of London ( Entry Fee: $35.25, used 2-for-1 pass | Time: 3 hours ) – Highlights: crown jewels, torture chamber
  • The Monument to the Great Fire of London 1666 ( did not enter )
  • Self Guided London Pub Crawl and Dinner 
  • Shakespeare Globe ( did not enter, Entry Fee: $19.50 ). 

Day 3 

  • Changing of the Guard ( Free ) – Tip: Arrive by 10 a.m., expect crowds
  • Thames River Walk (especially lively during summer and over Christmastime in London !)
  • Cruise with City Cruises from Westminster to Greenwich ( Ticket: $23 roundtrip, used 2-for-1 pass )
  • Lunch: Street vendors on Greenwich Dock
  • Royal Observatory and Astronomy Center ( only entered the free portion )
  • National Maritime Museum ( Free )
  • Return cruise to Westminster
  • Big Ben and walking tour of Westminster sights
  • Walk Westminster Bridge
  • London Eye ( Entry Fee: $31, used 2-for-1 pass )
  • Piccadilly Circus
  • Dinner: Lido Chinese Restaurant in Chinatown (crispy seaweed and crispy duck)

Day 4 

  • Westminster Abbey ( Entry Fee: $29 regular, senior discount $24.50 | Time: 1-2 hours )
  • Tower Bridge ( Entry Fee: $13, used 2-for-1 pass )
  • Potters Fields Park
  • Houses of Parliament ( in-session, Free ) – Highlights: House of Lords ornate room, quite entertaining session in House of Commons
  • Number 10 Downing Street
  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery ( Free, accepts donations ) – Highlights: Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh
  • Covent Garden
  • Dinner: Nags Head Pub (beef pie and chicken pie)
  • Royal Opera House ( did not enter )
  • Kensington Palace ( Entry Fee: $25.25, used 2-for-1 pass | Time: 1-1.5 hours ) – Highlights: Stories of royal family – especially Queen Victoria, king’s and queen’s apartments, fashions of Queen Elizabeth, Princess Margaret and Princess Diana
  • Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens – Highlight: Princess Diana Memorial Fountain
  • High Tea with prosecco finish  ( Cost: $120 | Time: 3 hours )
  • Wellington Arch ( did not enter, but walked under arch – which, at one time, only royalty could do! )
  • Westminster Cathedral ( Free )
  • The British Library (also known as National Library) ( Free ) – Highlights: Magna Carta, bibles, Beatles, sheet music of Bach, Beethoven, Handel
  • Dinner on the go

Day 6 – Travel from London to Paris

Trocadero fountains and Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

Mid-morning Chunnel to Paris ($60); arrive mid-afternoon, purchase public transportation pass ( Navigo Decouverte weekly pass : $29, includes activation fee, 3cm x 2.5cm passport-type photo required), purchase Paris Museum Pass (4-day pass, $90) and check into Airbnb apartment ($462 for 5 nights) in the Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood.

  • Walk the Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood
  • Dinner: Lulu la nantaise – Creperie (buckwheat crepes)
  • Musee du Louvre ( Entry to the Louvre Museum included with Paris Museum Pass ) – Highlights: Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Napoleon’s Apartments
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Walk  Pont des Arts Bridge (also known as Love Locks Bridge)
  • Musee d’Orsay ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass ) – Highlights: Impressionists
  • Musee de l’Orangerie ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass ) – Highlights: Monet murals
  • Place de la Concorde
  • Grand Palais ( did not enter )
  • Walk the length of Champs-Elysees (eat crepes along the way!)
  • Arc de Triomphe ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass )
  • Dinner: La Patache in the Canal Saint-Martin area (bison stew and wild boar stew)
  • Palace of Versailles ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass ) and Gardens  ( Free ) – Highlights: chapel, hall of mirrors, Mesdames quarters
  • Lunch in the gardens (baguettes from a vendor)
  • Marie-Antoinette Estate  and Grand Trianon ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass )
  • Dinner on the go: Paul Bakery at Gare de l’Est
  • Moulin Rouge Show with Champagne ( Ticket: $127 ) – Highlights: comedy skits, stunts, dancing
  • Notre Dame Cathedral ( Free )
  • Sainte Chapelle and Conciergerie  ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass )
  • Walk The Latin Quarter (on a guided tour or self guided walk )
  • The Pantheon ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass )
  • Luxembourg Gardens
  • St. Sulpice Church ( Free )
  • Boat trip on River Seine with  Vedettes du Pont Neuf (Ticket : $16 ) Tip: food in waiting area for the boat not recommended, poor tour guide, but lovely night cruise
  • Tower of Notre Dame Cathedral ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass | Time: 1.5 hours ) – Highlights: gargoyles, bell tower
  • Trocadero Gardens
  • Food on the go
  • Eiffel Tower ( did not climb )
  • Parc du Champs de Mars
  • Musee de l’Armee (also known as Hotel des Invalides) ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass ) – Highlights: Tomb of Napoleon and Napoleon’s horse
  • Musee Rodin ( Entry included with Paris Museum Pass ) – Highlights: The Thinker, Gates of Hell
  • Walk Montmartre neighborhood
  • Sacre-Coeur ( Free ) – Highlights: St. Peter’s side chapel
  • Pigalle  (also known as the Red Light District)
  • Dinner: La Patache

Day 11 – Travel from Paris to Rome

15-Day London Paris Rome Itinerary Rome Inside the Colosseum

  • Say au revoir to Paris with a walk along the Canal Saint-Martin – Highlights: boats traveling through the locks
  • Train to airport; flight to Rome ($79); check in to B&B Espresso ($343 for 5 nights) in the Salario neighborhood.
  • Walk the Salario neighborhood
  • Metro to Vatican  to obtain OMNIA Vatican and Rome Card ($109)
  • Piazza del Popolo
  • Villa Borghese Gardens ($50)– Highlights: view from Villa Medici
  • Dinner at a sidewalk cafe for pizza
  • Circus Maximus
  • Palatine Hill ( Entry included with the OMNIA Pass ) – Highlights: many interesting ruins and history
  • Roman Forum ( Entry included with the OMNIA Pass ) – Highlights: Rome’s oldest road, the place where Caesar was killed, Temple of Vesta
  • Colosseum ( Entry included with the OMNIA Pass ) – Highlight: standing inside the Colosseum
  • Arch of Constantine
  • Hop-on Hop-off Bus from Colosseum to Piazza Venezia ( Included with the OMNIA Pass )
  • Victor Emmanuel Monument (also known as Altare della Patria) and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ( did not enter )
  • Lunch (and gelato!) on the go
  • Ruins at Largo Argentina
  • Pantheon  ( Free )
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Spanish Steps
  • St. Peter’s Basilica ( Free, audio guide included with the OMNIA Pass, did not climb the cupola ) – Highlights: high altar, hidden relics, La Pieta
  • St. Peter’s Square – Highlights: 140 statues of saints that line the square
  • Vatican Museums ( Entry included with the OMNIA Pass ) – Highlights: Egyptian artifacts, art by the masters
  • Sistine Chapel – ( Entry included with the OMNIA Pass )
  • Lunch at a sidewalk café
  • St. John Lateran Church (San Giovanni in Laterano) ( Free, cloister admission included with OMNIA Pass ) – Highlights: Bishop Seat of Rome presided over by the Pope, cloister garden
  • Holy Stairs (also known as Scala Sancta) ( Free ) – Highlights: climbing the same stairs (relocated from Jerusalem) that Jesus climbed (on our knees)
  • Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli ( Free ) – Highlights: Ornate interior
  • Capitoline Museums ( Entry included with the OMNIA Pass ) – Highlights: She-Wolf with Romulus and Remus, Marcus Aurelius, The Fortune Teller, Capitoline Venus, The Dying Gaul, Bust of Medusa, view of the Forum
  • Capitoline Hill – Highlights: mayor’s office, drinking fountain, Michelangelo’s steps
  • Bocca della Verita ( Free, but long line )
  • Walk the Trastevere neighborhood
  • Lunch: Polpetta (traditional Italian dishes)
  • Fontana dell’Acqua Paola
  • Fountain in Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere
  • Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere ( Free )
  • Tiber Island
  • Gelato on the go
  • Walk the Jewish neighborhood
  • Campo dei Fiori
  • Piazza Navona
  • Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
  • Dinner on the go: Pizza by weight!

Day 16 

Bus to Airport, Flight to back to the USA!

Top Tips For Your London, Paris, Rome Trip

Planning a 15 Day Europe Itinerary to London, Paris and Rome is not an easy task. Although we have outlined a detailed trip plan, we have a few more tips that will help make planning your trip to Europe just a little bit easier. 

City Sightseeing Passes

City sightseeing passes can offer substantial savings for travelers who want to visit the top ticketed attractions. London, Paris and Rome all offer a variety of sightseeing pass options (and some are better than others).

London Sightseeing Passes

The National Rail 2-for-1 vouchers are a fabulous way to see London sights on a budget …unless you are traveling solo (or with an odd number of people) and not using public transportation. The London Pass is another city pass that might save you money.

In lieu of using public transportation, consider getting around London using Big Bus Tours , which makes stops at all the top London attractions. 

Paris Museum Pass

We highly recommend buying the Paris Museum Pass while sightseeing in Paris , as we think it is well worth the money and added bonus of skipping the line. 

Alternatively, look at the Paris Pass , which includes the Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and free public transportation, and might provide savings for your Paris trip . 

Rome Sightseeing Tips

We have yet to find a Rome sightseeing pass that we can recommend, as they don’t seem to offer the convenience and savings promised. Instead of spending money on a pass like OMNIA , organize your Rome sightseeing on your own.

Use the money you saved from buying a city pass and join a guided tour of the sights that are of most interest to you, like St. Peter’s Basilica , the  Vatican Museum , or the Colosseum . To get around the city, use the Rome Big Bus , public transportation or walk. 

As stated before, save time and money by purchasing the combo pass to the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill (Cost: $13.50) from the shortest ticket lines at the Palatine Hill entrance on Via di San Gregorio and then use your combo ticket to skip the ticket line at the Colosseum. Additionally, buy your ticket to the Vatican Museums , including the Sistine Chapel, online and skip the lines there, too.

Where To Stay in Europe

Choosing the type of accommodations and where to stay for a 2-week, multicity European trip can feel overwhelming. With 5 days in each city, travelers can opt to stay in a hotel, but a short-term apartment might be a better option. 

The main factors to consider when making your decision are location, cost, ease of check in, cleanliness and comfort. For any short stay in a city, location is key. It is optimal to be either in the city center or close to a public transit line. 

Airbnb in Europe

In general, we have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – but that is not always true with short stays where fees can add up in a hurry. However, it may be worth it for the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. Airbnb is our go-to site for finding the best Europe holiday apartments.

Europe Hotels

That said, we would not discount staying in hotels. At most hotels in Europe, the front desk staff speaks English and – with long days of sightseeing – a kitchen may not be necessary. When looking for hotels in London , Paris and Rome , we always start our search on Booking.com . Budget travelers can search for Hostels in London , Paris and Rome .

Pro Tip: Before you get started, read our top tips for Booking the Best Hotels .

Getting To Europe

All three cities – London, Paris, Rome – are easily accessible via plane, train, bus or car. 

Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying (we are JetSetting Fools, after all!) and when we do need to purchase plane tickets, we start our search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner .

Pro Tip: Read all our Tips for Cheaper Airfare .

Getting Around Europe

To get from city to city when flights are not possible, we usually rely on public transportation and take trains or buses. In Europe, we use Rail Europe to find train tickets and our preferred bus company is FlixBus – as it is economical, clean and comfortable (sometimes with on-board wifi, seat-back entertainment, refreshments and a toilet).

Renting a Car in Europe

For this Rome, Paris, London Itinerary, it is not necessary to rent a car. In fact, when bouncing between any big cities in Europe, it is best to use public transit. However, for travelers interested in seeing sights outside the city center,  renting a car can often save time and money (especially when traveling with more than two people).

Top Tip: We share tips for getting the Best Car Rental here . 

Before You Go To Europe: What You Will Need

We have a few final tips on what you will need for your London, Paris and Rome trip! You can find our Packing Hacks and other advice on our dedicated Travel Packing blog page. 

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Anyone planning a 2-Week Trip to London, Paris and Rome will need a good pair of walking shoes to most comfortably see the sights. The best travel shoes are lightweight and comfortable. I like wearing versatile sneakers , while Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes . 

Travel Camera

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual travel camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is a great budget camera for beginners!) – and use an everyday 18-135mm lens .  

Maps and Guidebooks

It’s easy to get turned around in any foreign city! Make sure to have a good city map for London , Paris and Rome . Additionally, some travelers (like my mom and sister) like to use a trusted guidebook – like Rick Steves’ Europe .

European Trip Insurance

Travel insurance may cover lost luggage and trip delays, as well as illness or injured abroad . If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to Europe, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Looking for more travel planning tips? Check out our detailed Guide to Planning a European Vacation and then head over to our Travel Planning page for our complete packing tips and other travel resources !

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

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SMALL-TOWN GIRLS, MIDNIGHT TRAINS

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— travel inspiration for small budgets and big dreams —

travel inspiration for small budgets and big dreams

11 Days in Europe: Paris, Venice and Rome Sample Itinerary (and Insider Tips)

FEBRUARY 2022 – HEY EVERYONE! I’M TEMPORARILY PAUSING THIS SERVICE BECAUSE THERE ARE SO MANY UNCERTAINTIES RELATED TO TRAVEL AT THE MOMENT. BEST OF LUCK ON YOUR JOURNEYS AND REMEMBER TO APPRECIATE YOUR BLESSINGS. ♥

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* You know how it is.

You’ve finally saved enough to go on a 2-week trip to Europe — yay!!!

You don’t want to go on one of those big bus tours where you’re herded around like cattle with 40-60 other tourists.

You could get a travel agency to put together a trip for you but you know it will cost you a pretty penny.

What you really want is to DIY your trip : customize your itinerary to make sure it suits your tastes AND at the same time covers all the must-sees.

But You Just. Don’t. Have. The Time.

Well, you’re in luck. 🙂

In this article, we’re going to teach you the basics of putting together an 11-day European itinerary that will give you the best bang for your buck. We also share tips and other things we learned — sometimes the hard way — on our previous trips to Europe.

And if you want to skip all that and just get a really detailed itinerary — one that you can actually submit to the Embassy when you apply for a Schengen visa — we can give you that too. We’ve put together an 11-day itinerary (14 days in all, including transit) that has flight times, train times, daily schedules, tips, and links to where you can book everything you need to book. If that’s what you want, click HERE .

Let’s start! *

places to visit between paris and rome

1. Pick 3 cities.

* Select the 3 cities that you most want to visit and stick to those.

Some people would, if possible, want to visit 11 cities in 11 days. Others would want to spend all 11 days in one city. However, I think visiting 3 cities is a good compromise between quantity and quality. Three to four days in each city will give you the chance to get the feel of the place while allowing you to visit more than just 1 city during your trip. (Plane tickets are expensive after all and should be maximized!)

For the purpose of this article, let’s pretend we’ve chosen Paris, Venice, and Rome. You can see the full itinerary below. *

2. Book a multi-city plane ticket.

* Instead of booking, say, a Manila-Paris-Manila ticket, book Manila-Paris and Rome-Manila tickets. That way, you can go from Paris to Venice to Rome, and not have to spend time and money going back to Paris to catch your flight home.

Booking a multi-city ticket doesn’t cost that much more and you actually save  money this way, compared to if you had to spend for transportation from Rome back to Paris. _

3. Travel between cities by train.

* I’ve written about why I love traveling by train so many times before — read  5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Traveling by Train on Your Next Trip Abroad  — but in a nutshell: they’re quick, they’re often cheaper and nearly always more comfortable than planes, you can see the places you pass by, and train stations are infinitely less of a hassle than airports (especially if you’re from the Philippines).

Note that the train from Paris to Venice specified in the itinerary below is a sleeper train. Sleeper trains such as the Thello  aren’t exactly the most comfortable places to sleep in, but it’ll do for one night.

According to The Man in Seat 61 , bookings for most high-speed and long-distance Italian trains usually open 120 days ahead of departure, so for mid-September trains, you can usually book by mid-May.

_ And finally, here’s the…

Sample Itinerary: 11 Days in Europe

Itinerary

* Four days in Paris . Enough time to see the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame, the Louvre, and whatever else you’re interested in.

  • Paris hotels I have stayed in and can recommend:  Hotel Le Notre-Dame Saint-Michel |   Grand Hotel du Loiret  |  Hotel Terminus Lyon  |  Hotel Eiffel Capitol  |  Timhotel Le Louvre
  • Save on meals – Thrifty Eating: How to Save on Food While Traveling
  • Stay safe – That Time I Almost Got Robbed in Paris

* Two and a half days in Venice . Buy a vaporetto pass. Go see Burano if you have the time. Read more about our first time in Venice here .

  • Venice hotels I have stayed in and can recommend:  Hotel Il Mercante di Venezia  |  Hotel Riviera (in the Lido)

_ Four and a half days in Rome . See the Colosseum . Drop a coin into the Trevi Fountain. See St. Peter’s. If you’re Catholic, go to the general audience. See: How to Get Tickets for the General Audience with Pope Francis .

  • During our last visit to Rome, we actually booked at the Hotel Luciani but they were full so they accommodated us at their sister hotel, the Hotel Ciao , which I think actually worked out better because it was just across the road from the main train station in Rome. *

And that’s it, really.

* If you would like to read more about the cities in this itinerary, the Wikitravel pages for Paris , Venice , and Rome are a good place to start.

If you’d like a hassle-free tour of each city, you can get on one of those hop-on-hop-off buses on your very first day and from there decide which places you would like to explore further. Most cities also have free walking tours — at the end of the tour, you give the guide whatever you feel his/her tour was worth — led by locals who know the city intimately. The tourist information centers of each city are also invaluable sources of information and advice.

The best thing about making your own itinerary — even if it’s your very first time in Europe or elsewhere — is that it makes you realize you can  do it . You realize you don’t have to rely on (and pay) someone else to create a great vacation for you. This will sound silly but every time I come across a train ticket machine and figure out how to operate it, I feel such a sense of accomplishment. 😀 And the preparations you make for a trip will help you to connect better and more deeply to each place you visit — infinitely rewarding. Try it! *

11 Days in Europe: Comprehensive Itinerary

But if you really don’t have the time to make an itinerary from scratch, don’t worry — we’ve got just what you need.

places to visit between paris and rome

_ This is our  Comprehensive 11-Day European Itinerary — 14 days in all, including transit — for the ultimate European trip to Paris, Venice, and Rome . This sample itinerary is so detailed, you can actually submit it to the embassy for your Schengen visa application with just a few minor tweaks (in MS Word). It’s got practically everything: *

  • Flight details , including airline, flight number, ETD, ETA, and a link to where you can book such a flight *
  • Train details , including the station you will depart from and arrive at, ETD, ETA, plus a link to where you can book the train ticket *
  • The itinerary covers the main attractions in each city AND it specifically sets aside some time for you to do something you’re personally interested in, whether it’s a day trip to Versailles or horseback riding down the Appian Way in Rome *
  • Tips and practical information — there’s a Remarks column that contains information you will need to visit the places listed in the itinerary, including links to where you can book tickets for each attraction *
  • PLUS! A budget column  with amounts allocated for each integral item in the itinerary — very important to help you prove your financial capability for the trip

_ Price for this Itinerary: PHP 99

(That’s less than the cost of the taxi ride to the travel agency!)

To obtain a copy of this Comprehensive 11-Day European Itinerary, just:

– 1 – Send PHP 99 to any of the following accounts:

places to visit between paris and rome

Note: For those who choose to send through PayPal, please send a total amount of PHP 119.25 . This is because PayPal charges a transaction fee of PHP15 plus 4.4% of the amount sent, so in order for me to receive PHP 99, you will have to send PHP 119.25. Thank you.

For BPI app users, you can also send me a payment using this QR code . (Just click on the link to access the image file, then save it to your device).

places to visit between paris and rome

Please make sure you follow these instructions , otherwise we will be unable to send you the documents. Thank you! 🙂

* Just some requisite legal stuff: By purchasing this itinerary, you acknowledge and agree that SmallTown Girls, Midnight Trains and its administrator(s) have made all efforts to ensure that the information contained herein is accurate as of the time of its creation but that, of course, details such as prices and transportation routes may change over time , and such changes may not be reflected right away in the itinerary. You also acknowledge and agree that if you submit this itinerary for your visa application,  SmallTown Girls, Midnight Trains and its administrator(s) naturally cannot guarantee that your visa application will be approved , as we are not connected in any way with the embassy or consulate of any country and have no power or influence over their decisions. Moreover, you acknowledge and agree that you are purchasing this itinerary on an “as is, where is” basis; that this itinerary is only intended to guide you in arranging your trip; and that it remains your sole responsibility to make sure that all your travel arrangements are in order. Therefore, you agree that SmallTown Girls, Midnight Trains and its administrator(s) have absolutely no liability for any outcome, event, or situation that arises in relation to this itinerary. I do hope that’s clear. 🙂

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31 responses.

hi i am ofw from dubai,at uuwi ako discoming May firstweek 2016 tapos dalhin ko boyfriend ko dito sa dubai so dadaan kami via hongkong papabook kami ng return ticket both with hotel reservation accomodation for 4days ano po ba mostly hinahanap samin or sakin or sa boyfriend ko sa immigration?pls.advice me thanks.

You can read the following posts:

https://smalltowngirlsmidnighttrains.com/2014/10/23/what-filipinos-need-to-know-about-traveling-abroad-guidelines-from-the-bureau-of-immigration/

https://smalltowngirlsmidnighttrains.com/2015/01/30/offloading-immigration-faqs/

https://smalltowngirlsmidnighttrains.com/2015/06/25/julianne-dee-julie-ann-dela-cruz-offloaded/

Lahat ng alam ko about going through Immigration ay nandoon sa mga posts na yun. Good luck!

thanks for the reply!god bless.

God bless you too!

Excellent post SGMT! I agree – spend more time in fewer places – you get a much richer experience that way. Alison

Thank you Alison! I have just been catching up on your latest posts and love them very much. Turkey sounds wonderful and I hope Mexico is too. xx

I definitely agree, more time in fewer cities would be my approach too. I think a minimum of 3 or 4 days in cities like the ones you mentioned is necessary to get any kind of feel for the place, and to get to know it. If you went to Rome for only a few hours, you’d surely leave feeling disappointed.

True! It takes more than a few hours to kind of tease out the spirit of the place.

By the way, I’ve just been to you blog and I love it. I can especially relate to a lot of the things you wrote in your About page. I wish you and your husband and the life you’re building together all the best!

Love this post! I agree with less is more, learned that the hard way when I went to Cebu last year. I tried to squeeze in too much and it was so exhausting. It’s so much more enjoyable to go to fewer places but actually enjoy them.

I love your blog and I wish I had discovered it before my first trip to Europe.To celebrate my girlfriend’s 50th birthday, last year we went to Europe, also her first time. We also chose three cities and booked multi destination international flights. We spent three nights in Barcelona, three nights in Madrid and four nights in Lisbon. We stayed at airbnb apartments. We planned everything ourselves and the only scheduled ones were the day tours we joined in each city. Since we were not too confident in making rail transportation arrangements ahead of time, we opted to fly from one city to the next. They were only about $50 each and short in travel time. The downside was we did not see the scenery in between and still had to be at the airport at least an hour ahead of time ( not much time saved there.) Overall, it was a great adventure and no regrets with choosing only three cities.

The whole trip sounds lovely. I’m glad you had a great time! Any plans of going back, to explore other cities/countries maybe?

Hopefully. My husband would like to do a year of sabbatical in Grenoble, France next year. This would be a great opportunity to explore many places.

hi just wanted to asked how long will it take to take train from paris to rome? is it much cheaper? What train company you think is good?. thanks your blog is very helpful.. planning our 1 day paris-italy 10 day vacation.

Hi Marie Charmaine! If you go by daytime train, it will usually take around 10 hours (including an interchange in Turin or Milan) with tickets starting at €50. If you take the overnight train, it will be longer, around 17 hours, departing Paris at around 7 PM and getting to Rome at 9 AM, but at least you will be sleeping for half of the hourney; tickets will cost around €35. Either way, you should book Advance tickets so they will be cheaper. There is usually just one train company (the national rail companies of France and Italy) operating the daytime routes; the night train is operated by Thello. Going to Rome by plane can actually be cheaper than going by train but taking the train will be less of a hassle and you will see nice scenery along the way. You can read more about going from Paris to Italy here: http://www.seat61.com/international-trains/trains-from-Paris.htm#Paris-Italy . (The Seat61 website is my go-to place for any train-related information.) I hope that helps. 🙂 Enjoy your trip!

Your posts are very informative..Hi i would like to ask if ever we will follow ur itinerary posted above which embassy kami mag apply french ba? Pls advise thank u in advance

Hi Tin! For this itinerary, no, you’ll need to apply sa Italian embassy kasi mas maraming days sa Italy (Venice + Rome). Good luck!

Hi! Sent you an email 🙂

Hi Des! I just sent a copy of the Comprehensive 11-Day European Itinerary to your email. Thanks and have a wonderful trip! 🙂

How long is the validity of the Schengen visa? We’re planning to travel in May but we want to book the plane tickets and accommodations as early as now. However, I read some where that it’s discouraged to book flights and accommodations if visa is not yet approved. Please advise.

Hi Des! Most embassies discourage you from paying for flights and accommodations ahead of time just in case your visa application gets denied. However, if you’re fairly confident that you’ll get a visa based on your finances, ties to the Philippines, and travel history, you can go ahead and purchase tickets as early as now. Actually, that’s what I do — I usually buy plane tickets when they’re on sale, and of course if I wait till I get a visa, the sale will probably be over by then. So I just buy them and like pray really hard that I get a visa. 😀 I do know KLM will refund your tickets if your visa application gets denied so you might want to consider that option. As for accommodations, you can always book those that will let you cancel (if necessary) for free — I personally use http://www.booking.com/?aid=826889 to find hotels with free cancellation. Good luck! 🙂

Hi, I plan to travel around July or August of this year. Is that a good time to travel? The countries I’d like to visit are Italy, France (Paris), Venice and Spain. In which order I don’t know as it is my first time in Europe. I will be traveling for 1 month, maybe 3 weeks. Would you have an itinerary for that? Could you help me. If I apply for a visa I would have to apply within 90 days prior to travel date right? Hope to hear from you soon.

Hi Wingwing!

July and August are going to be very hot in those places. And also, because that’s the summer school break for many countries, there will be a lot of tourists. So I would say that if that’s the only time you can go, then go; but if you have another option, try to avoid the crowds and the heat of those months.

It’s really up to you which order you would want to visit those 3 countries in (Venice is in Italy, by the way). I suggest you look at your travel dates, then Google the calendar of events for France, Italy, and Spain on those dates — see if there’s any event you’re particularly interested in, then plan your schedule to make sure that you’re in the right place at the right time for that event. Also, I’ve observed that airplane prices tend to be cheaper for Paris than for most other European cities, so if cost is a consideration, you can make Paris you entry and/or exit point.

Yes, visa application is 90 days prior to ETD at the earliest. You can get more info here: https://smalltowngirlsmidnighttrains.com/2016/02/27/schengen-visa-french-embassy-new/

Unfortunately, I don’t have a ready-made itinerary 3- to 4-week itinerary for those countries yet. If you want, you can use the 11-day France/Italy itinerary described in this article, maybe slightly extend your stays in Paris/Venice/Rome, or add another French/Italian city such as Florence or the Provence region, then all you have to plan from scratch is the Spain leg of the trip.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy your trip! Spending 3-4 weeks in those countries sounds perfect! xx 🙂

.hi, is it compulsory to pay travel insurance?

Hi Noreen! Yes, it’s required by most if not all Schengen countries.

Hi! How much Will you spend in an 11 day France/Italy tour?

Hi Jenny! Gosh, that depends on sooooooo many things. For example, if you plan ahead, you can get plane tickets for less. And hotel room prices depend on the season. But for the sample itinerary mentioned in this article, the cost is PHP 99,000.

HI Gaya, I sent you a message on your facebook messenger. Was asking if there are other payment options aside from the ones you listed (paypal, cebuana and bpi).

Hi J! I’m afraid that’s it — just BPI, PayPal, or Cebuana Lhuiller. Thanks for reaching out to me here. (As a matter of privacy, I don’t respond to private messages on Facebook or Instagram.)

hi gaya, ive sent you money through paypal

Hi Kim. I was notified of your payment for the Schengen visa pack; however, I do not have a PayPal account for the email address you used. If you want to use PayPal, could you please thoroughly re-read the Schengen visa pack article and follow the instructions for PayPal? Thanks.

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  1. Paris vs Rome: Which Iconic City is Right for You?

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  2. Vacation Package to Paris and Rome

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  3. Paris vs Rome: Which Iconic City is Right for You?

    places to visit between paris and rome

  4. Vacation Package to Rome and Paris

    places to visit between paris and rome

  5. Best Paris and Rome Vacation Packages 220-2021

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  6. Paris & Rome Explorer Vacation Packages

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COMMENTS

  1. 40 Best Stops Between Paris and Rome

    Top cities between Paris and Rome. The top cities between Paris and Rome are Florence, Milan, Turin, Verona, Genoa, Lyon, Bologna, Pisa, Siena, and Geneva. Florence is the most popular city on the route. It's 10 hours from Paris and 3 hours from Rome. Show only these on map.

  2. Rome and Paris in One Trip: Two of Europes Top Destinations

    There are 1,400 km between Paris and Rome. That's approximately 14 hours of driving. While it's a pretty spectacular drive, if you don't have much time on your trip, there are better options to get between the two cities. Overnight train. Thello overnight trains run between Paris and Rome in both directions and will get you to your destination ...

  3. Road trip from Paris to Rome

    Distance. Driving Time. The Milan Route. 1,620 kilometers. 20 hours. The Florence Route. 1,780 kilometers. 21 hours. Rome, with its historic architecture and unbeatable culinary scene, is around a 14-hour drive from Paris if you stick to the autoroutes all the way.

  4. Paris to Rome by Train: 6 Incredible Overnight Destinations

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  5. Stopovers between Paris and rome

    Posted by Paula (Montrose, CO, USA) on 06/07/13 12:55 AM. We will travel by day train between Paris and Rome in late Sept/early October. One of our goals is to see some of the countryside, so we have ruled out flying and the overnight train. We can stop over one night or two nights on the way. I am considering a stopover in Kandersteg, then I'd ...

  6. Paris vs Rome: which is better?

    Ceiling frescoes by Michelangelo in Rome are among the world's most famous artworks. Paris might have the Louvre and Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, but Rome has Michelangelo. The Italian artist's fresco of the Last Judgement (1508-12) in the Sistine Chapel gave Western Art its most iconic gesture - a bearded God pointing his finger at Adam to bring him to life - and no other ...

  7. Paris vs Rome: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

    In Rome, the average cost of a hostel or hotel to accommodate one person is €67. The same accommodations in Paris cost €121. And if you want a double room to accommodate two people, the average cost is €134 in Rome and €242 in Paris. So, you can expect to pay double the money for lodging in Paris versus Rome.

  8. How to Get From Rome to Paris

    With Paris and Rome being two of Europe's most famous capital cities, they classify as essential pit stops on many tourists' Eurotrip itineraries. They are 1107 kilometers (688 miles) apart, but the driving distance is more like 1,420 kilometers (880 miles). Traveling by car takes more than 13 hours, so most people opt for a quick, two-hour flight instead.

  9. Best of Rome and Paris Itinerary

    11 Days. Paris and Rome bring the legends alive as you journey through the cities' neighborhoods to find treasures of all sorts on hidden away on cobbled lanes and ancient walkways that have stood for millennia. With everything from marketplaces to private galleries, catacombs to chocolatiers, it is the little bit of everything that gives ...

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    5 delightfully under-the-radar French towns you need to visit. Go beyond Paris, the Alps, the Loire chateaux and the French Riviera. ... the driving distance between Paris to Rome is 1430 km. It takes approximately 13h 27m to drive from Paris to Rome. ... Places to stay in Rome. €418. Rocco Forte Hotel De La Ville 9.3 Superb. €140. The ...

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    Africa Safari. In-Depth Cultural. Coach / Bus. Train / Rail. Beach. Family. Private. Find tours that start in Paris, France and then finish in Rome. Find tour itineraries, read real customer reviews and compare different tour operators.

  12. Paris vs Rome: Which Iconic City is Right for You?

    Paris and Rome are both iconic, incredible cities that rank among the most touristic cities in the world-in other words, neither one is exactly cheap. However, if budget is a concern, Rome is slightly cheaper than Paris, particularly when it comes to lodging.

  13. Travels Across Europe: from Paris to Rome by Train

    The fastest and most convenient journey from Paris to Rome is with the TGV High-Speed Train and the Trenitalia La Frecce High-Speed Train. The journey starts at Paris' Gare de Lyon Station, where the TGV High-Speed Train whisks you off to Turin in a 5.5-hour journey. Once you arrive at Turin's Porta Susa Station, you'll then transfer onto ...

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  15. From Paris to Rome

    This 12 night sample itinerary includes: Europe is well known for its sweeping beauty, and this ultimate vacation package will escort you from Paris (the romantic City of Lights), through Lucerne, Milan, Lake Maggiore, Venice and ultimately Rome with the Lyria TGV, Cisalpino, TRN and ES High Speed Trains. See the famous landscape, the museums ...

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    For students, both Paris and Rome are terrific places to visit. ... When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Rome, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Rome much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rome would let you spend less money overall.

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    From Milan- easy to connect to a train to Florence. I'd Give Florence 3 nights, and then an easy train trip to Rome. From Florence It would be easy to take bus to Siena. I'd spend 2 nights in ...

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    Rome vs Paris: Cost of Travel. Spending 4 days in Rome can cost around 110 euros per person per day whilst in Paris at least 20 euros more. For this reason, Rome is definitely more affordable than Paris where the cost of accommodation and eating out is generally always a lot higher.

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    Choosing between Paris and Rome is so difficult, and the answer is going to majorly depend on who you ask! Having visited both, we can absolutely see the appeal each city has and all it has to offer. With night time champagne and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle, Paris is without a doubt the more romantic destination and might be more ...

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    Visit the historical city of Pitigliano. Before driving to Rome, a great place to stop is the ancient city of Pitigliano. Pitigliano is an fairytale city, located on top of a sharp cliff with big city walls. It's history dates back to prehistoric era, and there are also so many Etruscan and Roman traces to be seen.

  21. Paris vs Rome: Which is Better to Visit? Detailed Comparison

    Here's a table that compares the weather in Paris and in Rome. You can see each city's average temperatures in January, April, July, and October, average rainfall, and sunshine rate (the number of hours of sun per year). Paris. Rome. Average Annual Temperature. 11.7°C / 53°F. 16.3°C / 61.3°F.

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    Day 11 - Travel from Paris to Rome. Say au revoir to Paris with a walk along the Canal Saint-Martin - Highlights: boats traveling through the locks; ... City sightseeing passes can offer substantial savings for travelers who want to visit the top ticketed attractions. London, Paris and Rome all offer a variety of sightseeing pass options ...

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    Italy's state-owned railway company Ferrovie dello Stato (FS) will be hit by strikes on 23-24 March, causing disruption on local, regional and long distance trains. The walkout will begin in the ...

  25. 11 Days in Europe: Paris, Venice and Rome Sample Itinerary

    Let's start!*. *. 1. Pick 3 cities. * Select the 3 cities that you most want to visit and stick to those. Some people would, if possible, want to visit 11 cities in 11 days. Others would want to spend all 11 days in one city. However, I think visiting 3 cities is a good compromise between quantity and quality.