AthensvsRome
Can't decide between Athens and Rome? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Athens
Athens is the cradle of Western civilization, where ancient ruins meet vibrant modern life. The Acropolis towers over neighborhoods bursting with street art, tavernas, and bouzouki music, creating a unique blend of past and present.
Known for
Rome
The Eternal City is an open-air museum where ancient ruins stand alongside Renaissance masterpieces and baroque fountains. Rome offers an intoxicating mix of history, art, and la dolce vita, from the Colosseum to cozy trattorias serving authentic Italian cuisine.
Known for
Plan your Athens or Rome trip
Create a personalized Athens or Rome itinerary with AI. Just describe your travel style and we'll do the rest.
Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Athens offers Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka District
Rome offers Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain
Food & Dining
Athens is famous for its local dining scene
Rome is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Athens has legendary nightlife
Rome offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
April to June, September to October
Weather
Summer: 33°C, Winter: 12°C
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 10°C
Top Attractions in Athens
- 1Acropolis
- 2Parthenon
- 3Plaka District
- 4Acropolis Museum
- 5Ancient Agora
- 6Monastiraki Flea Market
Top Attractions in Rome
- 1Colosseum
- 2Vatican City
- 3Trevi Fountain
- 4Roman Forum
- 5Pantheon
- 6Spanish Steps
Athens is Popular With
Rome is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Athens
- 1
The First Cemetery of Athens
An open-air sculpture museum and the city's oldest cemetery, established in 1837.
- 2
The National Garden & Zappeion Hall
A 38-acre green haven behind the Greek Parliament, featuring ancient ruins, a small zoo, and a botanical garden.
Hidden Gems in Rome
- 1
Aventine Keyhole (Buco della Serratura)
A keyhole in the door of the Knights of Malta priory that perfectly frames St.
- 2
Centrale Montemartini
Ancient Roman sculptures displayed among the machinery of Rome's first power plant—a stunning contrast of industrial and classical.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Athens
Plaka & Anafiotika
Nestled on the northern slopes of the Acropolis, Plaka is the picturesque, old town of Athens with cobblestone streets and neoclassical houses.
Monastiraki & Psiri
A bustling, gritty, and endlessly energetic district centered around Monastiraki Square.
Top Areas in Rome
Trastevere
Rome's most romantic neighborhood winds through cobblestone alleys, past ivy-covered trattorias, and around intimate piazzas.
Centro Storico
The historic heart where ancient temples, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque churches compete for attention.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Athens
Budget in Rome
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Athens
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Rome
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Athens
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Athens
Enter your departure city to see prices
Find cheap transport to Rome
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Rome
Enter your departure city to see prices
Our Verdict
Both Athens and Rome are incredible destinations. Athens excels in ancient history and Greek cuisine, while Rome stands out for ancient history and Italian cuisine.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Athens
beaches
Athens
art lovers
Rome
Ready to plan your adventure?