When choosing between Naples and Rome for a backpacking adventure, budget is often a key factor. Both cities offer rich history and culture, but their daily costs can differ.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Naples is generally more budget-friendly for backpackers. A realistic estimated daily budget for Naples typically ranges from €35-50, whereas Rome generally falls between €45-65, sometimes exceeding this. These estimates cover accommodation, food, and local transport. While backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, Rome tends to be at the higher end of, or slightly above, this range.
What Are the Typical Accommodation Costs?
For hostel accommodation, Naples often provides more affordable options. A dorm bed in Naples usually costs between €15-25 per night. In Rome, expect prices for a dorm bed to be slightly higher, typically ranging from €20-35 per night. Prices for both cities are subject to seasonal changes, with spring and fall generally offering better rates than the peak summer months.
How Do Food Expenses Compare?
Naples is celebrated for its authentic and often inexpensive cuisine, particularly its pizza. A full Neapolitan pizza or a casual meal might cost €5-12. Street food and local trattorias provide excellent value. In Rome, casual meals, including pizza slices and pasta dishes, are available, but overall dining, especially near major attractions, can be slightly pricier. Expect to pay €8-18 for a casual meal. For a backpacker focusing on budget, daily food expenses can typically range from €10-20 in either city, though stretching that budget further is often easier in Naples.
What About Transportation Costs Within Each City?
Both Naples and Rome have extensive public transport networks (metro, bus, tram) that are essential for getting around. A single public transport ticket in either city typically costs around €1.50-2.00. For daily travel, a backpacker might spend €5-10 on transport in either city, often less if they stay in a central location and explore mostly on foot. Day passes are usually available for €7-10.
Which City Has More Affordable Attractions?
Rome boasts numerous iconic free attractions, such as the Pantheon (interior), Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and exterior views of the Colosseum and Roman Forum. However, major paid sites like the Colosseum/Roman Forum (approx. €18-30 entry) and Vatican Museums (approx. €17-25 entry) can add significantly to daily costs. Naples offers many free-to-explore historic districts, and its key paid attractions, such as the National Archaeological Museum (approx. €18 entry) or Naples Underground (approx. €10-15 entry), are generally less expensive than Rome’s top-tier sites. Day trips to Pompeii (approx. €19 entry) or Herculaneum (approx. €13 entry) from Naples incur additional transport and entry fees. For finding free amenities and points of interest in both cities, tools like AllInMap can be helpful.
