Paris vs Rome: Where Should Your Next Vacation Be?

Choosing between Paris and Rome for your next vacation can be a tough decision. Both cities offer rich histories, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable experiences. To help you decide, we’ve compared them on various parameters and rated each on a scale of 1 to 10.

1. General Cost of Travel

• Paris: 6/10. Paris, known for its luxury and elegance, can be very expensive. Accommodations range from high-end hotels to not so budget-friendly hostels (35+ EUR per night for worst ones). Taxis and dining out can also be pricey, but you can use public transport and buy ready to go food in the supermarkets.
• Rome: 7/10. Rome tends to be slightly cheaper than Paris. You can find reasonably priced accommodations (20% cheaper than in Paris) and enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Public transport is affordable, and taxis are generally less expensive than in Paris.

2. Safety

• Paris: 7/10. Paris is generally safe for tourists, though petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Stay aware of your surroundings. Some areas of Paris might be not safe to visit at nighttime, but those usually lack major touristic attractions anyway.
• Rome: 7/10. Rome is also safe but has similar issues with petty crime. Tourists should be cautious in busy areas, especially around major attractions.

3. How Easy to Get To?

• Paris: 10/10. Paris is highly accessible with its international airports (CDG is one of the biggest in the world), major railway stations, and a well-connected metro system. It’s a hub for international travel. But be aware of strikes on railroads or in the airport — it might affect your travel.
• Rome: 9/10. Rome also boasts an international airport and good railway connections. While slightly less connected than Paris, it’s still easy to reach.

4. Must-See Spots and Cultural Life

• Paris: 10/10. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are just a few of the iconic spots. Paris’s cultural life is rich, with numerous theatres, galleries, and events. It’s easily one of the most important cities in the world and one that every traveller should visit at least once,
• Rome: 10/10. The Colosseum, Vatican City, and Pantheon highlight Rome’s unparalleled historical significance. Its vibrant cultural life includes opera, theatre, and bustling piazzas. Rome should be on your bucket list.

5. Eating and Drinking

• Paris: 9/10. Paris offers world-renowned dining, from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming bistros. The culinary scene is diverse and high-quality. Service might be the weakest part though, it’s kind of special in Paris.
• Rome: 8/10. Rome’s food scene is fantastic, with authentic Italian cuisine and numerous street food options. It might not have as many Michelin-starred restaurants as Paris, but the quality and flavor are top-notch.

6. Accommodation

• Paris: 8/10. Paris has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to boutique hostels. Quality is generally high, though prices can be steep.
• Rome: 7/10. Rome also offers a good variety of accommodations. While there are fewer luxury options than in Paris, you can find charming and comfortable places to stay.

7. Unique Experiences

• Paris: 9/10. Unique experiences in Paris include things like river cruises on the Seine, exploring bohemian Montmartre, and visiting world-famous art museums.
• Rome: 10/10. Rome offers experiences like touring ancient ruins, exploring Vatican City, and enjoying lively street performances and festivals.

8. Museums

• Paris: 10. Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.
• Rome: 9. Rome has incredible museums, such as the Vatican Museums and the Capitoline Museums. While slightly fewer in number compared to Paris, they are rich in history and art.

9. History and Architecture

• Paris: 9/10. Paris offers stunning architecture from various periods, including Gothic cathedrals, Haussmannian buildings, and modern landmarks.
• Rome: 10/10. Rome’s history and architecture are unparalleled, with ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque fountains.

10. Nature and City Surroundings

• Paris: 7/10. Paris has beautiful parks like the Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries. The surrounding areas, such as Versailles and the Loire Valley, offer pleasant day trips.
• Rome: 8/10. Rome is close to beautiful natural spots like the Roman countryside and coastal areas. The city itself has lovely parks and gardens.

11. How Well Locals Speak English?

• Paris: 6/10. While many Parisians speak English, especially in tourist areas, it’s not as widespread as in some other European cities.
• Rome: 7/10. In Rome, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations, making communication easier for visitors.

12. Overtourism Score

• Paris: 6. Paris can be very crowded, especially during peak seasons. However, there are many lesser-known spots to escape the crowds.
• Rome: 5. Rome also suffers from overtourism, particularly around major attractions. Exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods can offer some respite.

13. Weather and Travel Seasons

• Paris: 7/10. Paris is best visited in spring and fall when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be hot, and winters are cold but not extreme.
• Rome: 8/10. Rome enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it suitable for travel almost year-round.

14. Public Transportation and Accessibility

• Paris: 9/10. Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including a metro and buses. Many areas are wheelchair accessible.
• Rome: 7/10. Rome’s public transportation is good but can be less reliable. Efforts are being made to improve accessibility, but it’s not as comprehensive as in Paris.

15. Length of Stay

• Paris: 8. A week in Paris allows you to see the main attractions and explore some offbeat spots. There’s plenty to keep you entertained
• Rome: 8. Similarly, a week in Rome is ideal for experiencing the major sites and soaking in the local culture.

16. Atmosphere and Vibe

• Paris: 9. Paris is known for its romantic and sophisticated atmosphere, bustling with life and creativity.
• Rome: 9. Rome’s atmosphere is lively and historic, with a blend of ancient and modern life that creates a unique charm.

17. Traveling with Children

• Paris: 8. Paris is family-friendly with many attractions for children, including parks, museums, and the nearby Disneyland Paris.
• Rome: 7. Rome also caters well to families, with plenty of outdoor spaces and child-friendly attractions. However, the city’s ancient sites can be challenging with strollers.

18. Wi-Fi and Connectivity

• Paris: 9. Paris offers excellent Wi-Fi connectivity, with many public places providing free access.
• Rome: 8. Rome has good Wi-Fi availability, though it might not be as widespread as in Paris. Most accommodations and cafes offer free internet.

19. Local Hospitality

• Paris: 7. Parisians are generally polite and helpful, though they can sometimes seem aloof. Efforts to speak French are appreciated.
• Rome: 8. Romans are known for their warmth and friendliness, often going out of their way to help tourists.

20. Events and Festivals

• Paris: 9. Paris hosts numerous cultural events and festivals year-round, from fashion shows to music festivals.
• Rome: 8. Rome also has a vibrant events calendar, with traditional festivals, religious celebrations, and contemporary cultural events.

Overall Ratings and Final Score

• Paris: 81.5
• Rome: 80

Conclusion

Both Paris and Rome are fantastic destinations with their unique charms. Paris scores slightly higher overall, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated and diverse cultural experience. Rome, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, remains a close contender. Ultimately, your choice depends on your personal preferences and what kind of experiences you seek on your next vacation.