A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Rome for Food, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saaremaa or Rome?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Rome, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a peaceful, relaxed, and traditional island. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, Saaremaa attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Rome

Rome is a popular, ancient, and archeological city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come to Rome because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Rome travel costs.

Saaremaa and Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Rome?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome. Although Saaremaa and Rome are popular destinations, Rome has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rome is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa attracts visitors for its beaches and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular 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. Saaremaa is famous for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

The Colosseum

How is Saaremaa different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rome has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rome is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saaremaa makes for a great culinary experience. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Nightlife?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Rome has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Music?

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

Rome has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Saaremaa is not a live music destination.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa is a island with good options for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Rome?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Rome specifically to go shopping. 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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Rome More Beautiful?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Rome because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Saaremaa is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The island has a classic beauty that feels frozen in time.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Families?

Rome is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rome. 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.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Couples?

Saaremaa and Rome are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for couples. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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).

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Rome Better for Students?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Rome is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Rome a more walkable city?

Rome is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its 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.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Rome or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Rome?

Both Saaremaa and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rome than in Saaremaa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 3-7 days is enough time in Rome.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rome than Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Rome?

Saaremaa is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Rome is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Rome?

Saaremaa is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Rome?

Saaremaa is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This island offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rome is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rome, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Rome?

Because Saaremaa is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saaremaa and Rome, we can see that Rome is more expensive. And not only is Saaremaa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saaremaa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa.

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Rome in the Summer?

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

Saaremaa is much colder than Rome in the summer. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, 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 Saaremaa this time of the year. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Rome. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rome in the Autumn?

Both Rome and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Saaremaa is much colder than Rome. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saaremaa in October average around 8°C (47°F), and Rome averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Rome. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rome in the Winter?

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

Saaremaa can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Rome. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around -3°C (27°F), and Rome fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Rome. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Rome. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rome in the Spring?

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

Saaremaa can be very cold during spring. Saaremaa is much colder than Rome in the spring. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 4°C (38°F) in April, and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rome this time of the year. Saaremaa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rome during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Rome. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Saaremaa