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

Should you visit Rome or Los Angeles?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rome and Los Angeles can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Rome is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping. See Rome travel costs.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include theater, nightlife, and live music. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Rome and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Rome. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its theatre productions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Rome attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Rome is famous for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Los Angeles is famous for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood.

How is Rome different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rome or Los Angeles?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Rome or Los Angeles.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rome on the map. 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.

Travelers visit Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Rome is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Rome is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Rome and Los Angeles can be an enjoyable experience.

Many restaurants in Rome have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Eat your way through Los Angeles, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rome or Los Angeles has a better nightlife scene.

The nightlife in Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Los Angeles is a world class party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Rome or Los Angeles.

In Rome you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a great destination for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

In Los Angeles, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Around Los Angeles visitors will find world-class hiking trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Los Angeles?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Los Angeles and Rome.

Rome is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Is Rome or Los Angeles More Beautiful?

Rome is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Rome is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its many beautiful landmarks and impressive architecture, this city has a lot of attractive places to visit. Don't miss Villa Borghese Park, Trastevere, Palazzo Madama, the Appian Way, and Piazza Navona.

Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Families?

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

Los Angeles is an extremely popular city to visit for families. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Rome or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Rome or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rome, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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).

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Rome or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Rome and Los Angeles are fantastic places to visit for students.

Rome is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

Rome is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Rome or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Rome is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Rome. 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.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Rome?

How long in Rome or Los Angeles?

Both Rome and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than Rome. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Los Angeles 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.

One day in Rome or Los Angeles?

Rome is a ancient city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the big city destination of Los Angeles. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Rome or Los Angeles?

Rome is a bustling big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Los Angeles is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Five days in Rome or Los Angeles?

Rome is a ancient city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the multicultural big city of Los Angeles. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Rome or Los Angeles?

Rome is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the sprawling city of Los Angeles. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rome and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Rome much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rome is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles 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 Rome Expensive? and Is Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rome or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Rome. When comparing the sizes of Rome and Los Angeles, 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 Rome or Los Angeles?

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 Rome or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rome as well as Los Angeles. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rome is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Rome usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Rome is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rome in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In October, Rome usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rome or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Rome during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Rome is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 8°C (47°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Rome usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Los Angeles. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Rome for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Rome is cooler than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Rome usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Rome