However, they also have unique traits, making them peerless destinations in their own right. Paris is for the hopeless romantics, people who live and breathe in the frequency of love. It’s also the perfect getaway spot if you’re dreaming of a candy wonderland rich in pastries of every kind.
Meanwhile, Rome is for those who want to travel down memory lane. It’s dubbed the Eternal City, existed a long way into the past and will still be present far in the future. It’s for tourists eager to get away from their daily lives, bond with family, or mingle with easygoing locals.
Still stuck trying to decide between Paris and Rome? With so much similarity in what they offer, it can be hard to pick one! Worry not, here’s a breakdown of the differences between these two European cities to help you make the right decision.
Paris
There’s no word more suitable to describe Paris than bewitching, and for a good reason. It’s a city straight out of a fairy tale, something you’d think would only exist in myths and novels. That’s why many people, young and old, have the French capital on their list of dream destinations.
Who wouldn’t, when Paris exudes a particular regal aura, sure to attract visitors of every type? It’s where you can find countless historical sites and beautiful monuments. The place can also provide you with one-of-a-kind experiences you’ll carry for a lifetime. Even the city’s romantic cobbled streets are worthy of admiration, enchanting enough to charm even the toughest of critics.
Truly, the French capital can present you with a vacation you won’t ever forget. It’s a veritable feast for the senses, mainly because of all the firsts you’ll experience within the city walls. There’s no need to complicate things – a trip to Paris is a must, so what are you waiting for? Make time to uncover all the wonders the City of Love and Light offers.
What Makes Paris Unique?
Revel in Nature Spots
Paris is a capital that possesses a long list of achievements, one of which is taking the top spot as the greenest city in Europe. Based on the Essential Living City Index, the French capital has the most preserved parks and playgrounds. It’s also leading in saving natural gardens and bodies of water on the whole continent.
These natural sceneries greatly add to the city’s beauty, famed throughout the planet. It’s also one of the main reasons why many tourists flock to Paris all year round. The capital has plenty of no-motor zones and eco-friendly accommodations. Its avenues are also packed with all-natural restaurants you can enjoy.
If you want to get closer to nature, then the most beautiful city in the world has several places for you to explore. From forests to nature parks, Paris got everything you’re looking for. Check out some of them below:
- Fontainebleau Forest. This forest is the lungs of the Paris region, the largest green area in Île-de-France. It’s where you go if your ideal getaway trip includes reconnecting with nature with a dash of rock climbing and hiking. You could even go dog-sledding or visit Château de Fontainebleau if you’re a huge fan of the Impressionist movement.
- Bois de Boulogne. If you’re not fond of sleeping in hotels, you can sleep under the stars in this nature park. It’s the perfect spot for tourists who love the outdoors, particularly during summer. This destination provides you with majestic lake views, the most prominent being the Lac Inferieur.
Love, Lights, and Landmarks
Ah, Paris – the city of love, lights, and landmarks. It’s a place where dreams come true and history comes alive. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting place.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a hopeless romantic looking to explore some beautiful sights. Or maybe, you’re on the hunt for something new that can bring the spark back into your soul. You’d surely find a spot that appeals to you, where you can feel your heart thrumming, somewhere you can call your home away from home.
Truly, the French capital is not something to be underestimated regarding delightful hotspots. In fact, here is only the surface of what you can expect from this wonder of a city:
- Place de la Concorde. Despite having a bloody background, this public square is considered one of the prettiest hubs in Paris. It’s also the largest one in the city, containing several awe-inspiring structures within the vicinity. Feast your eyes on the mighty Luxor Obelisk, and fountains adorned with Neriad sculptures during your stay.
- Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur. One of the more famous spots on the list, this church is done in Roman-Byzantine architecture. Your jaw will drop once you see its blinding white domes, going toe-to-toe against the shining Eiffel Tower. After basking in this building’s ethereal beauty, you’ll realize how the City of Light is such a fitting nickname for Paris.
Paris has many more grand destinations, intricate architecture, and fascinating culture. The best thing of all? You can get your fill of them for a day (or for how long your trip takes) – go on a walk around the city of love and enjoy its beauty!
Sugar, Sweets, and Everything Nice
Some think Parisians are scary, particularly since they’re shown as aloof individuals dressed to the nines. However, behind their seemingly stiff façade is a little kid with a big heart for desserts. Too large that they’ve transformed Paris into a city made of sugar, sweets, and everything nice.
You’d find whole avenues brimming with pastry shops and cafés, each boasting their specialties and combinations. Stalls abound on every corner of the streets, with vendors offering fancies you can’t resist. You’d have no trouble finding the perfect treat that’ll tickle your tastebuds, maybe even prompt you to buy a box or two before going home.
Tarts, croissants, and every kind of pastry imaginable – Paris has no shortage of these delicious delights. Here are some of the top-rated sweet spots you can drop by to start your journey toward sugary heaven:
- À l’Étoile d’Or. What’s better than eating your fill of delightful pastries, served and prepared by a warm grand-aunt that will regale you with tales? Nothing, of course! This shop has everything you could ever want when touring the streets of Paris. Jars of caramel, squishy marshmallows, and gem-like pâte de fruit – you name it and À l’Étoile d’Or has got it.
- La Chocolaterie Cyril Lignac. If chocolate is your lifeblood, you’ll definitely love this place. It’s full of cocoa wonders, from chocolate tablets and muffins to mouthwatering brownies. On top of these, the shop’s hot chocolate is to die for, perfect for windy or winter nights in Paris.
Art Here, There, Everywhere
If there’s one thing both locals and veteran tourists will tell you about Paris, it’s this: the city itself is a marvelous work of art. You’ll undoubtedly prove this true once you set foot inside the French capital, witnessing it in all its shining glory. In fact, the streets of Paris itself are a masterpiece, adorned in Haussmannian architecture imitated all over the globe.
Stone buildings can be found left and right, mainly on the city’s residential sides. They’re dressed in cream-colored paint, complete with wrought iron works adding up to Paris’ overflowing charm. Wherever you look, you’d find detailed and well-preserved wall carvings and carriage entrances.
Thinking that this is everything Paris has to offer regarding art and aesthetics? You’d be surprised by the number of masterpieces the French capital houses. Its museums are jam-packed with marvels from different generations, some dating back to ancient times.
That’s right, Paris is home to artworks that are not only exquisite to look at. These works also carry years worth of history behind them, making them relics that must be preserved no matter what. They’re national treasures you can glimpse during your trip, so make sure you make time in your schedule.
Check out some of the museums you can visit to provide more happiness for the aesthete in you:
- Palais de Tokyo. This destination is a modern museum known for being Europe’s largest contemporary art hub. Its distinctive design contains masterpieces made by living artists with different expertise. It also offers a one-of-a-kind experience to visitors, with the underground levels open for exploration. The museum has a great pull on the younger generation, especially due to the abundance of modern art and the signature funky café.
- Musée de Cluny. If you’re into medieval art, this Parisian spot should be a part of your must-visit list. It’s home to jaw-dropping collections from the Middle Ages, like gothic and romanesque sculptures. It’s also where you can find the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestry cycle, known for its allegory and intricate details.
Rome
Ever dreamt of being a gladiator as a child, dominating the countless foes that get in your way? Maybe you’ve long since developed a love for Roman mythology, admiring the tales of Romulus and Remus. That, or you’ve developed a knack for travel, thirsting for wonderful sites that will satiate the fernweh in you.
No matter which it is, it’s enough reason to visit Rome – the city that needs no introduction. It’s not dubbed the Eternal City for nothing, boasting of its existence dating back to the old ages. The Italian capital will literally take you back in time, thanks to its well-preserved architecture and culture.
Shed off all your worries and let the ancient magic of Rome take effect within you. Within the city walls, there’s only you, your happiness, and your next enjoyment to stress about. Everywhere you look, there is something to be discovered. From iconic monuments such as the Colosseum and Pantheon to delicious plates of pasta and gelato!
What Makes Rome Unique?
Going Back to the Classics
Walking down the streets of Rome will give you the impression that you’re still in the ancient period, back to the eras shown in classic paintings. It’s like getting transported in a fancy, age-old masterpiece, reliving the memories of olden Roman times.
Wondering how the Eternal City managed to tickle the old soul residing deeply within you? Well, it’s thanks to the countless architectural geniuses that built the Italian town. Every inch of Rome’s buildings and roads is dripping in history, art, and classical beauty. What’s more?
Artisans created them with every fiber of their being, leading to these ancient structures standing strong until now. Another reason the nickname, The Eternal City, fits the Italian capital like a glove. The city gives off a strong, resilient quality – no matter how much the world has changed, Rome will remain forevermore.
Eager to check out some of the Roman structures on your getaway trip to the city? Here are some noteworthy ones to get the most out of your journey:
- Colosseum. This Ancient Roman architecture is famous for a reason, not only because it’s almost 2000 years old. The structure is impressive and gigantic; it can easily fit 80,000 spectators. It’s used for gladiator fights and ancient sea dramas, both of which are surefire crowd favorites. Remember: if you want to enjoy your visit fully, check out the Colosseum’s underground portion.
- Pantheon. If you have a heart for mythology, you’d enjoy walking down this Ancient Rome structure. It’s a temple made to worship the pagan gods and is considered the best preserved out of all the architecture from the city’s olden times. It’s also the burial ground of many great kings and queens, making the historic geek in you smile in delight.
- Knights of Malta Keyhole. Locally known as the Hole of Rome, this spot is perfect for one eager to witness the city in all its glory. It’s basically a keyhole, wherein you can peep through to get a glimpse at the Eternal City. To be specific, it’ll provide you with a magnificent view of St. Peter’s dome, magnificently surrounded by trees.
Getting In Touch With the Divine
It’s never too late to get in touch with your Christian side, and where else is the best place to be when doing so? The city of Rome, of course! It’s the city with the most number of Christian churches, so you’ll never lack in any worship sites.
Specifically, the Eternal City is home to over 900 Christian churches, more than any other place on the planet. You don’t have to worry about people flocking to the Italian capital’s most famous church, St. Peter’s Basilica. You have an infinite list of other holy grounds to drop by, some even dating back to ancient Rome.
Don’t fret if you’re not a part of the religion, too! The city’s doors are open to people of all kinds, especially those willing to learn more about art and history. The churches in the Eternal City can also be considered museums, home to geniuses’ works of art. You can surely appreciate these masterpieces that survived the passage of time and made it into the annals of history.
Here are some of the most beautiful churches you can find in the Roman city:
- The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. This holy site is the largest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, home to several ancient art and artifacts. It’s also one of the oldest in Rome, dating way back to 432 AD. Get ready to get a glimpse of mosaics from the fifth century, showcasing 36 scenes from the Old Testament. Tip: try to visit this church on the first week of August, particularly the fifth, to witness the majestic Miracle of the Snows event.
- San Giovanni in Laterano. Before making the Vatican their residence, the Popes first resided in this church. It’s also considered the episcopal church of the Pope, labeled the mother of all churches in the city and the world. It’s known for having an elegant wide facade, donned with beautiful giant statues by Alessandro Galilei.
Aside from these magnificent churches, Rome is also where Vatican City is located. That’s right; the Eternal City is home to the world’s smallest state and the papacy’s seat. It’s another reason why the Italian capital is a place you shouldn’t sleep out on.
It doesn’t matter if you’re on a spiritual journey or aiming to witness Rome in all its glory. The city will welcome you and serve as your home for your getaway.
Living la Dolce Vita
You’ve heard of the saying, “when in Rome, do as the Romans do”. But what exactly do the people in the Eternal City do in their day-to-day life? They follow the dolce vita lifestyle, of course!
If you’re wondering what it is about, here’s the gist: chase after the sweet life. The Romans like to take things easy, often putting leisure above everything else. Live every day as if it’s your last, bask in life’s beauty, and don’t forget to spice up your five senses.
Got sleepy in the middle of work? Feeling pressured on goals’ progress, worrying about whether you’re doing things at the right pace? All of these disappear like bubbles in Rome; the only thing that matters is chasing after desires. It’s like the residents have full-on rose-colored glasses, navigating life with a vacation mindset.
This makes Rome the ideal destination for you, particularly if you get antsy when away from your workstation! In this city, you’ll be forced to leave out your stress and worries in the comforts of your desk. You’d only have to think about the things you want to do, the experiences you’d love to take, and most of all, the fun you will have in the Eternal City!
What’s more? Aside from temporarily shedding off your work persona, you can also rekindle your close connections. To elaborate, Rome has a certain magic that will make you want to enjoy its streets with precious ones. It’s the city where famiglia is the most important unit, so where else is best if you want to solidify your familial bonds? It’s also where you can know more about your friends and soulmate, meeting them on a whole other level different than before.
The best thing is this: you don’t have to fear roaming the streets of the Italian City when you’re on a solo trip. For Romans, everyone is famiglia. Don’t be surprised if one or two locals invite you for a warm meal, maybe even ask you to spend your lonely holidays with them. The Eternal City truly is eternal, especially for the lasting mark locals give to everyone – even when you’re from a faraway place.
All About Italian Cuisine
You may think Rome is like any other capital, adapting a diverse food culture from all over the globe. However, the Eternal City remained loyal to its core, showcasing Italian gastronomy through and through. This doesn’t mean you’re losing out, though, because this city’s cooking opens up a whole different universe on its own.
You’d be surprised by the plethora of flavors Italian cuisine offers – it’s like tasting everything all at once! Of course, Rome still has its native touch to some dishes, but expect the Eternal City’s food to awaken the foodie in you. From the classic Parmigiano Reggiano cheese to the more adventurous truffle oil, the city has something for everyone! If you don’t know where to start, better check the list below for some restaurant recommendations:
- Felice e Testaccio. Once you’ve arrived ad Testaccio, you’ll know you’ve come to the right place. This restaurant is everything you’ve dreamt of about Roman cuisine. It’s even complete with retro checkered floorings for that old-school vibe. It’s well-known for its tantalizing cacio e pepe, a heavenly mix of noodles, melted cheese, and black pepper.
- Cesar al Casaleto. Want to get away from Rome’s bustling areas and head somewhere quieter? This shop is a 20-minute cab ride from the city’s urban neighborhood. It’s where you go if you want to experience genuine Roman comfort food and mingle with locals for an affordable price. The cherry on top is that the owner, Chef Leonardo Vignoli, specially curates the trattoria’s excellent wine list.
Roman cuisine is anything but boring, so don’t be discouraged if their gastronomy is not as eclectic as you think. It won’t lose to other city’s cooking, especially if you consider the variety of herbs and spices used in the dishes. With so many delectable options available, it’s no wonder their cuisine remains one of the most beloved worldwide!
Also, don’t rule out Rome’s love for wine and spirits. Expect nothing less from Italy’s capital, a country well-known for its vineyards. You’d enjoy a glass (or two) every meal, an appreciated burst of flavor after tickling your tastebuds with supreme food goodness. Tip: locals would love nothing more but recommend you wine that perfectly pairs with your dish if you have yet to learn. Buon appetito!
Rome or Paris – Which Is Better?
Ah, the age-old question: Paris vs. Rome – which city reigns supreme? It’s a tough call, and no two travelers will agree on an answer. But the truth is that both cities offer something different and special, so there really isn’t a right or wrong choice. To come up with an answer, identify what unique experience you’d like to add to your life book.
Aim for Paris if you’re more into art, marveling greatly at artists’ paint strokes and sculptors’ delicate carvings. It’s also where you should go if you’re eager for something sweet or if you want to experience the full force of France’s cooking. On top of these, the City of Love is an ideal destination for those romantic getaways you’ve always dreamt of having with your soulmate.
Meanwhile, get ready to tour the streets of Rome if you’re more into architecture, particularly the ancient kind. You’d surely drop your jaw at every structural marvel the Eternal City offers, some of which are considered holy grounds. And most of all, choose the Italian capital if you’re willing to leave your stressful life behind and get the most out of your much-awaited vacation!
Both cities are oozing with unique charms, so why not take a trip and explore them if you have the chance? After all, they’re on the same continent and are only a few hours away from each other. That way, you can take in all the delights each has to offer. From the romantic evening walks along the Seine to a leisurely gelato stroll through Rome’s old town.
FAQ
Is Paris or Rome Cheaper?
If travel expenses are a major factor when choosing between the two European cities, go to Rome. The data released by Expatistan reveals that the Italian capital is 28% cheaper than Paris. This means you can afford plenty of leisure and activities without breaking the bank when you travel to the Eternal City.
To give you an idea, transportation in Rome is 43% cheaper than in Paris. If you’re going to ride a taxi for a distance of about 8 km (5 mi), you’d only have to pay less than $16 in Rome. The City of Love, however, will have you spending over $20 for the same span.
Similarly, entertainment in Rome is 19% less expensive than in Paris. Buying two tickets for the best available seats is worth $70 in the Italian capital. The French capital sells these tickets for a whopping $117.
Food, housing, clothes, and transportation are also cheaper in Rome compared to Paris. As such, the Italian capital is a more logical option if you want to explore a major European city with a limited budget.
Is Rome Dirtier Than Paris?
Some people have the misconception that Paris is dirtier than Rome, but that’s not the truth. In fact, the Italian capital has an infamous nickname you should be aware of: the eternally dirty city. It’s known as the filthiest capital in all of Europe, what’s more?
The city also occupies the top spot in the International Business Times and the Independent’s list of the world’s filthiest cities. If you’re wondering how the beautiful Italian capital has come to this, the answer is its poor waste disposal system. Aside from this, it also lacks good recycling practices, resulting in many littered streets.
Rome or Paris in February?
Choosing between Rome and Paris during your February getaway can be difficult. However, your decision all boils down to one thing: what you want to experience during your trip.
Book a flight to Rome if you’re keen on seeing many historical sights without the hassle of long queues. During this time, the Italian capital is in its off-season, so expect the lines to be brief, most times not needing prebooking tickets. Plus, parades are all the rage this month, the most famous being Carnival. It’s when kids get dressed up and where you can enjoy seasonal sweet and savory Italian treats.
Opt to visit Paris if you’re more inclined to experience a romantic February. Remember, it’s the month that romance is most celebrated, so it’s only natural that the City of Love goes all out during this period. However, remember to dress warm since the French capital is known for its winter weather. Be prepared to witness snowflakes, gorge on sweet desserts, and share warm wine with loved ones.
Paris or Rome in November?
November in Paris and Rome is a season of subdued tourist visits. As such, you don’t have to worry about long lines of sightseers or the lack of hotel accommodations available. This alone makes both cities ideal November destinations since there’s no need to deal with crowds.
However, if you have to decide which one to visit for your getaway, head to Paris if you’re eager to get ahead of your Christmas shopping activities. Not only will you have the chance to buy the latest clothes and winter fashion. Artisan products you can give during the holidays also abound, most of them one-of-a-kind. Don’t forget that going to cafés this season is a must in Paris, whether for the phenomenal desserts or hot chocolate drinks.
On the other hand, choose Rome if you’re keen on experiencing Italian festivals. There is plenty to enjoy, whether religious, artistic, or musical events. It’s also your chance to explore the city’s main piazzas, taste the best Italian cuisine, or get a free museum tour.
Paris or Rome in December?
If you’re torn between Paris and Rome for your December getaway, get to know your target goals and preferences. Both cities can get pretty cold this month, so expect the activities to be slightly different than when visiting during summer.
Generally, December is a busy month for the City of Love. There’s no doubt that you’ll have to interact and deal with many people, including visitors who want to make the most of the Parisian winter. You’ll surely marvel at the city squares decked with bright lights and Christmas decorations. Enjoy the abundance of holiday bazaars, theater performances, and lots of discounts during this season.
Rome in December is a slow tourist season, meaning you get to explore the city without being overcrowded. You can have unlimited sightseeing trips and Instagram-worthy shots without editing your background. Plus, concerts and tours also occur during the last month of the year for the Eternal City.
Pantheon in Paris vs. Rome
Both Paris and Rome have their own version of the Pantheon. However, one thing you should know is this: the one in the French capital is inspired by the original from the Italian city. The two structures may be similar in their neoclassical designs, but they carry different meanings and purposes.
Pantheon Paris means Temple of the Gods, built by Louis XV for the main purpose of dedicating it to St. Genevieve. It’s the first major monument in Paris, built in 1764, older than the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. It has been turned into a mausoleum where you can visit the graves of notable people, including Marie and Pierre Curie and Victor Hugo.
On the other hand, the Pantheon in Rome is much older, built between 125 to 128 CE. This ancient structure was meant to be a place of worship for the Olympian gods where people of different beliefs could show devotion. It’s the eighth wonder of the ancient world and is referred to as the Sphinx of the Campus Martius.
Rome vs. Paris for Catacombs
The Catacombs in Rome and Paris are unique spots you can visit if you’re within the cities’ vicinities. They’re ideal if you want to know more about the European capitals’ pasts and if you’re going to pay respects to the departed. However, despite having similar names, they have their differences, mainly the years of existence.
The one in Rome was built as early as the 2nd century A.D., making it 1,500 years older than the one in the French capital. It was constructed as a burial ground for Christian believers, as well as Pagan and Hebrew citizens. Christian graves mainly occupied the area because religion was illegal then. Many believers were martyred near the site, freely buried with Christian symbols.
Meanwhile, the Catacombs in Paris were created during the late 18th century. It’s the planet’s largest gravesite, home to an average of six million corpses. Originally, the site was a maze of quarries but was transformed into a cemetery to solve the city’s issues of storing their departed.
Is Rome Close to Paris?
Rome is a city located in the southern part of Europe, while Paris can be found in the central-western portion. Since both capitals reside within the same continent, you could say they are close to each other. There’s no need to travel across the globe between the two, and the airplane isn’t your only mode of transport.
In fact, since the two cities are connected by roads, you can choose to drive or commute via bus to reach either of them. They’re also linked via railroads, so train travel is definitely possible. All these methods of going from Rome to Paris, or vice versa, are accessible, and travel time won’t even last over a day.
How Far Is Rome From Paris?
The distance between Rome and Paris can vary depending on the route chosen. If you’re traveling via plane or train, you’d have to cross 1106 km (687 mi) to arrive at the Eternal City. This can be covered by airplane in an hour and 22 minutes; however, regular train rides last about 13 hours and 55 minutes.
If you’ve secured a bus ticket, the distance would be 1102 km (685 mi). The route will take approximately 22 hours and 25 minutes on average, not counting the brief stopovers. Meanwhile, car rides span a distance of 1427 km (887 mi), lasting for an average of 11 hours and 53 minutes.
Paris to Rome Distance
The distance between Paris and Rome depends on which mode of transport you will use. If you plan on crossing the cities via plane or train, it will span about 1106 km (687 mi). Car rides will take about 1427 km (887 mi), while commuting via bus will have you traveling an average of 1102 km (685 mi).
Where Are Paris and Rome?
Paris and Rome are located within the same continent, Europe. The former is in the north-central part of France, serving as its capital. On the other hand, Rome is the metropolis of Italy, found in the central-western portion of the country.
Is Rome or Paris Bigger?
Rome is several times bigger than Paris, spanning a whopping 1285 sq km (496 sq mi). The French capital only measures about 105 sq km (41 sq mi), making the Eternal City approximately 12 times larger. This can be surprising, especially since Paris is known for being the most populous city in Europe. Meanwhile, Rome only occupies the fourth spot in the Medcities rankings.
Distance From Paris to Rome by Plane?
If you’re planning to travel from Paris to Rome by plane, you’ll travel approximately 1106 km (687 mi). On average, you’ll land on the Eternal City after about an hour and 22 minutes of travel. This is if you’re riding a commercial liner with an average speed of 805 km/h (500mph).
Remember: flight duration may vary depending on the type of airline and the routing used. It’s also best to factor in the weather conditions and passenger load as it may affect your plane speed.
Is There a High-Speed Train From Rome to Paris?
Unfortunately, there is no high-speed train going directly from Rome to Paris. You’d have to get off at Milan for a stopover and change rides to arrive at the City of love.
These stopovers usually last overnight, but there’s no need to fret if you’re short on time. You’re free to immediately switch to another bullet train going from Milan to Paris so long as you plan in advance. To help you with this, be aware that Trenitalia, the primary train company in Italy, should be your go-to.
Avail an intercity train ticket for Frecciarossa, the company’s bullet train, rather than the regular one. Both these rides are offered only once daily, at the same time, so you should be extra careful not to mistake the two.
Overnight Train From Paris to Rome
There’s no overnight train going directly from Paris to Rome. This is unfortunate, especially since a sleeper train is the most convenient route for people eager to arrive at the Eternal City quickly. It’s also ideal for those who don’t mind missing out on the scenic view between the two destinations.
Don’t lose hope, though, because other options are available for you aside from direct travel. This will require you to get off at Milan, but it’s definitely worth it. Doing so will ensure you won’t lose any hours waiting at a hotel or traveling during daylight hours.
For starters, book a Thello train going from Paris to Milan. Don’t forget to secure passage from Milan to Rome, too. Your best bet for this would be to purchase a ticket in advance via the Frecciarossa service going to Rome Termini. It’s a high-speed bullet train you can ride during the night, ensuring you can arrive in Rome early morning.
Distance From Paris to Rome by Train
The distance from Paris to Rome via train is 1106 km (687 mi). If you’re riding an average train, you’ll be arriving at the Eternal City within 13 hours and 55 minutes. However, if you travel via a high-speed one, expect the journey to last only about 10 hours and 31 minutes.
Paris to Rome – Train or Flight?
If you’re contemplating riding a train or a plane from Paris to Rome, check the purpose of your travel. This way, you can weigh the pros and cons of the two options and decide easily.
Opt for train rides if you’re off to Rome on a leisurely trip. The train route between these two destinations is generally scenic, so it’s ideal if you want to take in beautiful sites. However, there’s no direct route for these two cities. This means you’d have to book two separate tickets – one from Paris to Milan and another from Milan to Rome.
Choose to fly from Paris to Rome if your main purpose is convenience and speed. The journey will typically last an hour and 22 minutes, compared to basic train travel, which spans about 13 hours and 55 minutes. It’s the best route if you don’t mind not witnessing the landscape between the two European cities.
Drive From Paris to Rome
The drive from Paris to Rome requires you to cross a distance of 1427 km (887 mi). This will take you about 11 hours and 53 minutes on average if you’re going directly to the Eternal City. However, if you plan to have as many stopovers as possible, it may even take several days.
This is because the route from Paris to Rome has no shortage of phenomenal towns that can take your fancy. For instance, you can stop in Geneva, a city in Switzerland that boasts of its beautiful mountain views. Here, you can take the time to appreciate the Alps and Jura mountains, as well as enjoy the bohemian culture in its districts.
If that’s not your fancy, you can rest and spend a few days in Verona, Italy. It’s a city most famous for being the setting of Romeo and Juliet, one of Shakespeare’s masterpieces. Check out the city’s medieval castles and the abundance of charming squares and gardens you can lounge in.
Other noteworthy stopovers on the way from Paris to Rome are Genoa, Pisa, and Sienna. You can also stretch your legs or grab a meal with your companions in Milan, Bologna, or Turin.
Driving Distance From Paris to Rome
The driving distance between Paris and Rome is approximately 1427 km (887 mi). If you drive directly without any stopovers, you’ll reach the Eternal City after about 11 hours and 53 minutes. Note that this is only if you’re steadily steering the wheel at an average speed of 120 km/h (75 mph).
Paris to Rome Drive Time
The drive from Paris to Rome takes about 11 hours and 53 minutes on average. This is if you’re driving at an average speed of 120 km/h (975 mph).
Remember: the travel duration via car from the French capital to the Italian city will largely depend on your chosen route. If you’re taking plenty of stops, it’s even possible for your road trip to take days. You’ll also have to factor in traffic and other delays when going the car route.
How to Get From Rome to Paris the Cheapest Way
If you’re on a budget, commuting via bus from Rome to Paris is the ideal option. It’s the cheapest route and will only cost you about $80 on average. You could even get some tickets for less, going at a much lower rate of $55.
The travel duration via bus may take about 20 hours and 25 minutes, though. As such, you should make sure you have plenty of time for travel before buying a bus ticket.
Best Way to Go From Paris to Rome
The best way to go from Paris to Rome if you’re aiming for speed is via plane. It’s the fastest route and will only take you about an hour and 22 minutes of travel time. It’s also the most convenient method, particularly because there’s no need for a stopover.
However, if you’re looking for the most scenic path, then the best route would be via train. Despite it requiring a minimum of one train change, it’s worth it if you consider the view. This is the ideal choice if you’re someone looking to witness the scenery between Paris and Rome.
Yet another option to consider is traveling to the two European cities via car. It’s the best option to experience the sceneries between Paris and Rome in depth. You’d have the luxury of handling your time while going on numerous stopovers en route to the Eternal City.
