A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rome vs. Playa del Carmen for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Rome or Playa del Carmen?

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 Playa del Carmen 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 bustling, fun-filled, and popular 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 Rome is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Rome travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant, picture-perfect, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Rome and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Playa del Carmen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome than Playa del Carmen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rome is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Playa del Carmen attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. 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. It is also well known for The Colosseum. Playa del Carmen is famous for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Rome or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rome or Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen is a world class party destination. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Music?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

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.

Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Rome is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Rome is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Rome is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Playa del Carmen?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Rome is one of the main draws. 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.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

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

Playa del Carmen is an extremely popular town to visit for families. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

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 Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

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

Playa del Carmen is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

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 Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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).

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen Better for Students?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Rome is top-notch. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Rome or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Rome and Playa del Carmen both are terrific when exploring on foot.

Getting around Rome on foot is easy. 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.

Playa del Carmen is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

For even more information, also check out Is Rome Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Rome?

How long in Rome or Playa del Carmen?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?

People visit Rome because there is so much to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Playa del Carmen?

People visit Rome because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Playa del Carmen 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 Playa del Carmen?

Rome is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the scenic destination of Playa del Carmen. This town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Playa del Carmen?

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant town of Playa del Carmen. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rome or Playa del Carmen?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Rome and Playa del Carmen, 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 Playa del Carmen?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Rome or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

Both Playa del Carmen and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rome is cooler than Playa del Carmen in the summer. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rome. Rome usually receives more sunshine than Playa del Carmen during summer. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. In July, Rome usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmen. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rome or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

Both Playa del Carmen and Rome during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rome in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Rome is much colder than Playa del Carmen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rome in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 26°C (79°F).

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Rome often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Rome usually gets less rain in October than Playa del Carmen. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Should I visit Rome or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Playa del Carmen. Most visitors come to Rome for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Rome is generally much colder than Playa del Carmen. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 8°C (47°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. Rome usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during winter. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rome usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmen. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rome or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rome as well as Playa del Carmen. The spring months attract visitors to Rome because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year.

Rome is much colder than Playa del Carmen in the spring. The daily temperature in Rome averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. In the spring, Rome often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmen. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets more rain in April than Playa del Carmen. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Rome