On the subject of deciding whether or not to go to Rome or Florence, there is no such thing as a simple reply. Each cities provide a wealth of points of interest and actions, making both one an excellent vacation spot for vacationers.
In case you are debating which Italian metropolis is healthier, and if it deserves a spot in your itinerary, then this entire journey information to Rome vs Florence, shall be helpful for you!
Bonus: We now have included a 5, 7, and 10-day itinerary beneath that can assist you plan a visit to incorporate each!
Rome or Florence: Which Italian Metropolis to Go to?
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Rome is the capital of Italy and one of the well-known cities on this planet. Town is full of historic monuments from centuries previous, from the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica, and its wealthy tradition makes it an important place for sightseeing, purchasing, and having fun with the native delicacies.
Florence is usually thought of to be Italy’s creative coronary heart. Town boasts many museums full of Renaissance paintings and structure, in addition to iconic landmarks just like the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti.
Florence is a paradise for foodies, with conventional trattorias serving scrumptious Tuscan fare.
Whether or not you select Rome or Florence is determined by what sort of journey expertise you might be on the lookout for. In both metropolis, you’ll be surrounded by stunning paintings and beautiful structure, in addition to have the possibility to discover and expertise a spread of cultures.
Rome vs. Florence: Issues to think about when selecting between Rome or Florence
We’ll go over every of the various factors that shall be helpful in planning your journey to Italy, and can share our prime decide for every class!
Rome vs. Florence: Transportation and Connectivity
Transportation and connectivity are two key elements when deciding between Rome and Florence. Each cities provide wonderful transportation choices for getting round city, however there are some notable variations between the 2.
Rome is dwelling to the largest airport within the nation – Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport. When touring from wherever on this planet to Italy, flying to Rome is your finest guess. It’s simple to search out continuous or one-stop flights to Rome.
Rome can be well-connected with a strong public transportation community, together with buses, trains, trams, and even a metro system.
Roma Termini is the most important practice station within the nation, and you will discover a journey to connect with different components of Italy fairly simply!
Nonetheless, because the metropolis is so massive and sprawling, chances are you’ll discover that navigation could be a bit complicated at occasions.
In distinction, Florence is far smaller than Rome and thus has fewer transportation choices. The native buses are dependable however sluggish throughout peak hours, and there’s no subway system.
The central station in Florence is named the Santa Maria Novella Railway Station, and it’s positioned near town centre.
Strolling is one of the simplest ways to discover town’s slim cobblestone streets and get round shortly, however a automobile or taxi could also be needed to achieve a few of Florence’s farther points of interest.
Be aware that the closest airport within the Tuscany area is in Pisa, which is about an hour away from Florence by practice. Because of this, many landing in Rome after which take the high-speed practice to Florence.
Total, Rome has higher transportation and connectivity choices than Florence, making it simpler to get across the metropolis. However…if you’re simply eager on exploring Florence, you don’t should depend on public transit or lease a automobile – town is walkable and really fairly pleasing to get round this manner!
Verdict: Rome
Rome vs. Florence: Lodging
On the subject of lodging, each Rome and Florence provide quite a lot of choices to swimsuit various kinds of vacationers.
In Rome, there may be a variety of lodging out there, from five-star accommodations to funds hostels.
Rome is larger than Florence, and there are lots of neighborhoods which are positioned away from the historic centre the place it’s also possible to discover reasonably priced lodging – ranging round $120 USD per night time (for 2, 3-star properties).
Because of a superb transportation community you may keep away from the middle, for those who like, relying in your funds.
We want staying on the centre after which strolling to numerous points of interest as a lot as doable, and certainly Rome has nice accommodations close to the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain or the Vatican. The one factor to remember is that they are going to be very costly throughout the peak season and sometimes charges are 3 to 4 occasions larger.
With an even bigger metropolis, though you’ve got loads of choices, it’s a must to be aware of some ‘not so fairly or most popular areas’ and Rome has its personal share. Nothing to be afraid of, however keep away from staying in areas like Rome Termini as they’re normally very crowded, and pickpocketing can be doable.
Then again, in Florence, you will discover lodging starting from luxurious to mid-budget boutique accommodations.
For these on the lookout for an expensive keep, lots of the metropolis’s five-star accommodations provide spectacular views of the cityscape, together with the view of the Duomo!
We stayed at a lodge proper within the coronary heart of Florence with a Duomo view – and there are many choices. These are principally B&B fashion properties (3 to 4 stars, regionally owned, with a really boutique expertise). They’ll set you again by $150 USD to $250 USD per night time (twin share with personal toilet).
There are additionally loads of mid-range accommodations that supply comfy rooms at affordable costs. For funds vacationers, there are hostels and 2-star modest accommodations in Florence.
In Florence, plan to remain on the heart or close to the principle railway station for higher accessibility and choices.
Verdict: Total, each cities provide wonderful lodging choices. Rome is a big metropolis with many accommodations and hostels to select from, whereas Florence has fewer decisions however presents some high-end luxurious lodging.
In case you’re on the lookout for extra of a boutique expertise with first rate costs, then Florence is perhaps the proper place for you.
If you evaluate staying in Rome’s historic heart vs Florence metropolis heart, Rome shall be costly. Throughout peak season a 3-star property can explode to three to 4 occasions the same old fee.
Rome vs. Florence: Eating places
Touring for meals? You’re in luck! Each Rome and Florence provide an important number of culinary experiences, they usually boast many various kinds of delicacies from conventional Italian dishes to worldwide fare.
From rustic trattorias serving basic dishes equivalent to spaghetti alla carbonara and pollo alla romana, to elegant eating places providing beautiful gourmand delicacies, Rome is a foodie’s paradise. With its abundance of recent components and passionate cooks, the standard of Italian cooking in Rome is just unmatched.
Florence additionally has an important number of eating places, providing a spread of flavors. Conventional Tuscan dishes equivalent to ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, and tagliatelle al ragù are served in cozy trattorias, whereas town’s extra upscale eateries present creative menus that includes locally-sourced components.
On the subject of restaurant choices, Rome and Florence each provide an important number of culinary experiences. Nonetheless, these on the lookout for conventional Italian delicacies could want Rome’s bigger number of trattorias.
Verdict: Rome (for a wider number of eating places and Italian and worldwide delicacies)
Rome vs. Florence: Day journey choices
When contemplating which metropolis to go to, you have to additionally think about day journey choices from every to make the MOST of your Italian trip.
Rome is the capital of Italy and is considered one of its most stunning cities, with centuries-old structure, historic websites, and monuments.
On the subject of day journeys, by holding Rome as a base you may go to
- The Vatican Metropolis (a European microstate)
- Amalfi Coast (1-2 cities are doable to go to on a day tour)
- Pompeii
- Tuscany
- Villa D’Este and Hadrian’s Villa Tivoli
- Appian Manner
Sightseeing within the Vatican, Villa D’Este and Hadrian’s Villa Tivoli, the Appian Manner, and Pompeii archaeological website are simple day journeys from Rome.
Cities on the Amalfi and Tuscany deserve just a few days of exploration.
Learn: Rome and Amalfi Coast Itinerary
Then again, Florence could also be a more sensible choice for these on the lookout for a extra relaxed expertise away from the hustle and bustle of the massive metropolis.
You possibly can discover loads of the Tuscan cities with ease and even maintain Florence as a base.
In Tuscany, you may discover,
- Pisa
- Chianti wine excursions
- Siena
- Lucca
- San Gimignano to call just a few.
These locations are simple to get to by public transportation or by renting a automobile. The quaint streets, artwork galleries, and picturesque sights of Tuscany make it a superb vacation spot for many who want to take issues sluggish.
Florence can be a superb base to go to the European Microstate of San Marino (by automobile, or practice and bus journey).
Verdict: Ultimately, each cities are nice locations for day journeys and all of it comes down to non-public desire on which locations you want to discover in your trip.
Rome vs. Florence: Sightseeing and Points of interest
A day or two in Rome can simply be full of visits to the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.
Town additionally has a wealth of museums and artwork galleries to discover.
Rome is GREAT for historical past buffs, metropolis/city lovers, energetic vacationers, purchasing fans, and foodies alike!
Learn: 3 days in Rome itinerary
Florence is a a lot smaller metropolis in comparison with Rome and is famend for its artwork and tradition. It’s dwelling to many well-known Renaissance landmarks such because the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and the Uffizi Gallery.
Town additionally has a plethora of charming alleyways, boutique shops, and eateries which are excellent for exploring on a day stroll or purchasing spree.
A go to to Florence will remember to delight vacationers with its picturesque streets and beautiful views of the Arno River.
Florence is PERFECT for artwork and tradition lovers, and people on the lookout for a relaxed getaway, and quaint corners. You will see some museums, luxurious retailers, and eating places right here, however Rome is the clear winner for its sheer quantity of points of interest, intensive historic websites, and limitless eating choices.
Learn: 3 days in Florence itinerary
Verdict: Rome
Rome vs. Florence: Which metropolis is extra touristy, and has extra issues to do
Rome is likely one of the world’s hottest vacationer locations. It’s dwelling to a few of the most iconic monuments on this planet, just like the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Pantheon.
Most journey bucket lists will characteristic Rome for its totally different UNESCO World Heritage Websites, and town has 13 of these.
To not point out, its vibrant tradition, scrumptious delicacies, and interesting historical past make it a must-visit for any traveler on the lookout for an genuine Italian expertise.
On prime of this, Rome can be nicely linked with airports, practice stations, and different cities in Italy making it simple to entry from any vacation spot.
Florence can be a well-liked vacationer vacation spot and is named the birthplace of the Renaissance, which provides it its distinct allure.
Town boasts some spectacular sights, to not point out unimaginable artistic endeavors from well-known artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Artwork lovers everywhere in the world will respect a visit to Florence and doubtless might spend days visiting numerous church buildings, museums, and different heritage websites. Though it might not be as nicely linked to different cities and airports like Rome, there are nonetheless some good transportation hyperlinks and town can simply be reached by practice or automobile from close by areas.
Verdict: In conclusion, Rome is the higher alternative for these on the lookout for a touristy vacation spot with numerous sights to discover and well-connected transportation hyperlinks.
Rome is nice for many who need to see rather a lot in sooner or later and Florence is right for many who are on the lookout for a extra relaxed expertise.
Rome or Florence: USP for every metropolis
Rome and Florence are two of probably the most iconic cities in Italy. And listed here are their USPs and what they’re well-known for.
Everlasting Metropolis | Historical past | Capital metropolis | The Colosseum | The Vatican
Rome is famend for its wonderful structure, scrumptious Italian delicacies, and interesting historical past.
Often known as the Everlasting Metropolis, Rome has been round since 753 BC and continues to attract guests from everywhere in the world who want to discover its many points of interest.
From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, and from the Trevi Fountain to St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome is a timeless metropolis full of unimaginable sights and points of interest that can go away you in awe.
Cradle of Renaissance | Tuscan Countryside | Artwork Historical past
Florence is named the Cradle of Renaissance, with its unimaginable structure and artwork, in addition to iconic landmarks such because the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti.
Florence’s cobblestone streets result in a few of the world’s most stunning church buildings and piazzas, providing countless alternatives for sightseeing and exploration. Strolling by means of town, you may admire its many museums, galleries, and historic websites.
Rome or Florence: Which is healthier for solo vacationers
Solo vacationers can take pleasure in and survive in each Italian cities. Rome’s wonderful public transportation system will enable one to navigate with ease, with out counting on taxis or tour guides.
Plus town heart is stuffed with eating places, bars, and cafes the place solo vacationers can work together with locals, making it an important vacation spot for many who need to make new buddies and expertise the tradition firsthand.
In case you are new to solo journey, our advice shall be to decide on Florence.
Florence is compact, simply walkable to sightseeing points of interest, and comparatively simple to navigate than Rome. It additionally has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, pubs, and golf equipment which are excellent for solo vacationers seeking to meet new folks. Learn: Issues to do in Florence at night time
Verdict: Florence (particularly for first-time solo vacationers)
Rome or Florence: Which is healthier for {couples}
On the subject of deciding which is the higher metropolis for {couples}, Rome and Florence each present a romantic ambiance. Whereas every metropolis presents its personal distinctive allure, in addition they have some similarities that make them very best areas for {couples} seeking to discover Italy collectively.
Rome is known as the Everlasting Metropolis, and with good purpose. Its vibrant tradition, beautiful structure, and enchanting ambiance make it the proper place for {couples} to discover collectively.
From the Colosseum to St. Peter’s Basilica, historic Roman ruins to trendy artwork galleries, Rome is excellent for energetic vacationers. {Couples} can spend their days sightseeing and purchasing within the many piazzas or just take within the romantic ambiance of this historic metropolis.
Rome’s iconic websites could be nice photograph spots for {couples} and engagement shoots! We noticed so many wedding ceremony shoots on the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps!
Florence additionally gives a romantic setting for {couples} seeking to discover Italy. Town’s structure and paintings, which date again centuries, will go away you mesmerized as you stroll by means of its slim streets.
{Couples} can discover the numerous museums, artwork galleries, and church buildings of Florence, or spend their days tasting scrumptious Tuscan fare on the native trattorias.
When staying close to the Duomo, {couples} can soak within the vibes of town, or embark on day journeys of the Tuscan countryside.
Verdict: Tie
When deciding between Rome and Florence for a romantic getaway, it actually comes down to non-public desire. Each cities provide loads of actions and points of interest suited to {couples} seeking to discover Italy collectively.
Rome or Florence: Which is healthier for households
Each cities provide a wealth of points of interest and actions which are positive to maintain guests of all ages entertained.
Rome is a superb alternative for households on the lookout for an thrilling metropolis journey. Town is jam-packed with historic monuments and artworks from centuries previous, permitting children of all ages to be taught in regards to the historical past of Italy.
For extra energetic households, Rome can be dwelling to quite a few parks and leisure areas the place you may spend time outside having fun with nature.
Florence is a perfect vacation spot for households on the lookout for a extra relaxed and laid-back trip. Its Renaissance structure and artworks are positive to fascinate children of all ages, whereas its cobblestone streets present an enthralling ambiance that everybody can take pleasure in.
For outside actions, Florence has loads of inexperienced areas equivalent to Boboli Gardens, the place you may discover nature and marvel on the metropolis’s stunning panorama.
Verdict: In the end, deciding between Rome or Florence for a household trip is determined by what every particular person group is on the lookout for of their expertise. In case you are planning an extended vacation and want to have a jampacked journey then decide Roma!
Rome vs. Florence: Which is reasonably priced to go to in Italy
Rome is a extra reasonably priced choice of the 2. Because it’s a big metropolis, there are many budget-friendly lodging out there, together with hostels and Airbnbs.
There are additionally a number of free points of interest and actions that may replenish your itinerary with out breaking the financial institution. The Colosseum (exterior view), Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon are all free to go to.
Consuming out in Rome can be comparatively reasonably priced for those who stick to the standard native eateries.
Florence could be a bit costlier than Rome, however there are nonetheless loads of choices for funds vacationers. Lodging costs are usually a bit decrease than in Rome, and there are a number of free points of interest to take pleasure in, just like the Duomo (tower entry is further), Piazza Michelangelo, and Ponte Vecchio.
You’ll have to pay to see Michelangelo’s David, and the Uffizi Gallery although. Consuming out can be reasonably priced although for those who stick to native delicacies.
Verdict: Rome
Rome vs. Florence: Select Florence or Rome primarily based in your journey fashion and pursuits
On the subject of deciding between Florence and Rome, you must think about their very own journey fashion and pursuits. Every of those two cities presents its personal distinct allure.
Select Rome: Historical past buffs | Bucket record chaser | Lively traveler | Purchasing | Sprawling metropolis | Many neighborhoods to discover
Rome is a vibrant metropolis that’s full of wonderful artwork, structure, and tradition. It’s dwelling to iconic landmarks in addition to many different lesser-known points of interest.
You possibly can 10000% keep energetic hopping from one attraction and UNESCO website to the subsequent – simply filling up your itinerary. One can spend hours exploring its historic streets, discovering hidden gems in its numerous church buildings, and having fun with the scrumptious Italian delicacies.
Select Florence: Artwork lover | Relaxed getaway | Compact | Simple to navigate | Romantic
Then again, Florence’s most defining characteristic is its artwork and structure. Its streets are full of Renaissance-era landmarks such because the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and the Duomo.
You possibly can take within the vibes and views while admiring town’s many sculptures and monuments. Artwork lovers shall be in heaven in Florence, as it’s dwelling to a few of the world’s most well-known artistic endeavors equivalent to Michelangelo’s David.
In case you are on the lookout for a extra relaxed and laid-back ambiance, you must think about visiting Florence. Town presents a slower tempo than Rome, permitting one to take pleasure in its tranquil ambiance and take within the sights at a leisurely tempo.
Florence additionally presents loads of wonderful eating places, cozy cafes, and stress-free parks to discover.
Learn how to add Rome and Florence to your Italy Itinerary
In case you are taken with exploring each Rome and Florence on a single journey, then here’s a 5, 7, and 10 day itinerary. You possibly can learn the complete information and journey ideas right here – 7 days in Tuscany itinerary
- Day 1: Rome (arrive and keep right here for the subsequent 3 days)
- Day 2: Rome & Vatican Metropolis
- Day 3: Rome
- Day 4: Florence (arrive and keep for the journey period)
- Day 5: Florence
- Day 6: Pisa day journey
- Day 7: San Gimignano (day journey or keep there)
- Day 8: Lucca day journey
- Day 9: Discover Siena for a day
- Day 10: Chianti wine tour
Begin your journey in Rome, spend 3 days right here after which take a practice to Florence. Spend 2 days in Florence and wrap up your 5 day Italy itinerary.
Or prolong your trip by holding Florence as a base to discover Tuscany (days 6 to 10).
Day 1: Rome
Begin your trip within the Everlasting Metropolis by exploring the long-lasting Colosseum and the Roman Discussion board. Tour this magnificent landmark and its surrounding space.
After that, take a stroll alongside By way of dei Fori Imperiali and go to Rome’s bustling piazzas equivalent to Piazza Navona.
Within the night, head to Trastevere for some conventional Roman delicacies.
Day 2: Rome & Vatican Metropolis
Head to the Vatican and go to St. Peter’s Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.
Then proceed your tour of Rome by exploring a few of its lesser-known points of interest. Take a stroll alongside the Tiber River and take within the metropolis’s beautiful views.
Go to the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. Afterward, spend a while purchasing and eating at a trattoria!
Day 3: Rome
Discover the Pantheon within the morning, earlier than it will get too crowded. Then head to the attractive Villa Borghese gardens and go to a few of the metropolis’s breathtaking museums, equivalent to Galleria Borghese and the Capitoline Museum.
Day 4 – 5: Florence
Depart Rome behind and head to Tuscany, the place you’ll be spending the subsequent few days exploring a few of Italy’s most stunning landscapes.
Spend your first 2 days in Florence, and absorb its beautiful structure and artwork.
Go to the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and Piazzale Michelangelo earlier than heading off to discover a few of the smaller cities in Tuscany like San Gimignano and Siena.
Day 6 – 10: Tuscany
Head to Pisa and spend sooner or later there. Go to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Miracles Sq.. Later wander town, and soak within the sundown by the Arno river banks. (Day 6)
Subsequent go to San Gimignano and Lucca, two of Tuscany’s most stunning cities, and discover their historic heart. (Days 7 and eight)
Spend your ninth day exploring Siena’s stunning landscapes. Discover the historic heart, Siena Cathedral, and Basilica of San Domenico, and climb the steep steps of Torre del Mangia for wonderful views!
Then hang around on the Piazza del Campo, and luxuriate in a pleasant meal.
Proceed your exploration of Tuscany by driving by means of the attractive Chianti vineyards and stopping in a few of the native cities.
Pattern the area’s well-known wines earlier than heading off to Rome on day 10.
Learn different 10 day Europe itineraries
The gap between Rome and Florence is 260.7 km (162 miles). Excessive-speed trains from Rome to Florence take 1 hour and half-hour, and it takes you thru the scenic Lazio and Tuscany areas.
In case you are driving, it is going to be about 3 hours (a method).
The place to Keep in Rome
For a brief journey to Rome, think about staying in a centrally positioned neighborhood so that each one the key points of interest shall be inside strolling distance.
Lodging close to the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trastevere, and Prati (north of the Vatican) are nice choices for all funds ranges.
Listed below are a few of our favorites in Rome,
- Prassede Palace Lodge in Rome: It is a 4 star property positioned within the historic centre, tremendous near the Colosseum, and the Roma Termini Station. It is usually inside strolling distance to numerous trattorias, and public transportation. Click on to e-book your keep right here
- Atlante Star Lodge: One other 4 star lodge, Atlante presents a tremendous scenic restaurant and is positioned near Vatican Metropolis. If you keep at this lodge, you’ll get to take pleasure in a free breakfast. Guide your keep right here
- Condotti Boutique Lodge: Condotti Boutique is a mid-budget lodge, simply minutes away from the Spanish Steps. This spot is nice for sightseeing in addition to purchasing! Guide your keep right here
The place to Keep in Florence
Select a Florence lodge on the centre, and soak within the views of the Duomo out of your lodging.
- La Terrazza sul Duomo B&B: La Terrazza is our favourite place to remain in Florence. Select a room with a view, and at sundown head as much as the rooftop to entry uninterrupted views of Duomo and different metropolis landmarks. Guide your keep right here
- Locanda dei Guelfi: Locanda dei Guelfi is one other lodge providing rooftop entry so that you simply take within the metropolis views. This lodge is positioned close to the Accademia Gallery, Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, in addition to the Santa Maria Novella practice station. Guide your keep right here
Rome vs Florence: The Verdict
Rome is unquestionably very best for many who want to discover a historic metropolis with loads of points of interest and actions, whereas Florence is healthier suited to these taken with artwork and tradition.
Rome is essentially unfold, and a giant metropolis. Florence is compact, picturesque, and simply walkable.
On the subject of nightlife, Rome is a greater choice. From wine bars to nightclubs, there are many locations the place you may take pleasure in a drink and dance the night time away.
Each cities have loads of reasonably priced actions and points of interest out there, so it actually comes right down to what you’re on the lookout for throughout your journey. If funds is your principal concern, Rome would be the extra reasonably priced choice; however for those who’d prefer to expertise a smaller metropolis with beautiful structure and artwork, Florence would be the better option.
We completely liked exploring Rome, and it could possibly be as a result of we LOVE massive cities and historic websites. Rome is the proper metropolis break for {couples}, bucket record chasers, and households alike!
~ La Mia Roma
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