Rome not only takes us traveling through time, but also stuns with its impressive architectural wonders. Travelers flock to witness the grand Colosseum, which tells the gruesome story of mighty fighters. Others look forward to the Trevi Fountain, praying for love and luck. Rome has consistently stayed one of the best cities in Europe. Then, what if you’ve already been to Rome or want something similar with fewer crowds? That’s why this article explores the best 11 cities like Rome.
What is Rome Famous For?
Rome is generally famous for its iconic landmarks dating back to ancient Rome, such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum, opulent buildings influenced by Catholicism, and an impressive art scene. The Italian city presents experience, showcasing how the past and the present collide in the best possible way.
Rome is a haven for architecture fans, history enthusiasts, and art lovers. For that reason, we recommend these European cities with beautiful architecture and fascinating history as alternatives to Rome.
1. Naples, Italy
People love finding out that Naples is the birthplace of pizza, but it is more than that. The waterfront city has a long history and has nurtured its ancient charms until today. Naples was founded by the Greeks and enriched by the Romans. Opulent churches, mysterious underground catacombs, and the UNESCO-listed city center take you to the past. So, visit the honey-colored Spaccanapoli or marvel at Castel Nuovo’s immaculate facade.
And if that’s not enough, Neapolitan cuisine and seafood rival Rome’s pasta dishes in every way. You cannot leave the birthplace of pizza without biting into the original one. TripLeader Jai, who has traveled around Europe since 1994, recommended visiting Le Figle di Iorio. “It’s one of the best places to try pizza creations and learn how to make them,” she stated.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Naples offers the same ancient Roman spirit with a more gritty, authentic vibe.
2. Verona, Italy
Rome whispers the tale of Ancient Rome’s supremacy, while Verona narrates a tragic romance. Although they tell different stories, there is a lot about Verona that will remind you of Rome. This Northern Italian city is home to Shakespeare’s legendary Romeo and Juliet. The city’s landscape shares Rome’s nostalgic feel, dotted with Romanesque buildings and cut by the Adige River.
Juliet’s Balcony and Castelvecchio are some of Verona’s best places. However, the city also keeps a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the Arena di Verona. It still hosts concerts and operas today. “Don’t miss the shops and stylish cafes of Verona. They’re cheaper than Rome, but also similarly pretty,” said TripLeader Inti, who has lived in Italy for more than five years. With all it has to offer, Verona is one of the best cities like Rome to consider.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Verona captures Rome’s historic elegance in a more intimate, romantic setting.
3. Lucca, Italy
Rome is a treasure trove of archaeological and medieval charms. Then, TripLeader Inti also recommended a mini version of it, Lucca. The city sits on the banks of the Serchio River in Italy’s Tuscany region. Well-preserved Renaissance walls circle the historic city center and cobblestone streets. It takes you back to the glory of the 16th and 17th centuries. Besides that, Lucca houses Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the remnants of the Roman theatre. The city’s first cathedral, Saints Giovannia and Reparata, keeps archaeological remains.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Lucca offers the charm of ancient Italy without the crowds.
4. Bologna, Italy
Bologna rivals Rome in terms of delectable cuisine. It is the food capital of Italy, boasting delicious flavors of bolognese, mortadella, and tortellini. Aside from that, the northern Italian city boasts a wealth of historical buildings. It is famous for its iconic medieval towers, such as Asinelli and Garisenda. Moreover, Renaissance structures including Fountain of Neptune and Basilica di San Maggiore make Bologna one of the similar cities like Rome.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Bologna combines historical gravitas with a buzzing food scene that Rome lovers will adore.
5. Seville, Spain
The ravishing Andalusian city looks like a more colorful version of Rome. They are very different in terms of architectural style. While Rome showcases elegant Romanesque sites, Seville is proud of its fiery Moorish architectural pieces. Regardless, Seville is one of the best cities like Rome, sharing similarities in vibrant culture and wonderful history. It can be your stop after visiting Rome, shifting from the long history of Roman Empire to the traces of Andalusian Islamic kingdom.
Seville is not totally disconnected from Rome in some way. For example, the Seville Alcázar presents strong Roman influence blended with Moorish elegance. Moreover, Seville becomes alive with dance, festivals, and music.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Seville brings together Roman ruins, vibrant culture, and sizzling cuisine.
6. Aachen, Germany
Traces of ancient Rome are scattered throughout Europe, including in Germany. Aachen is a spa city sitting on the border between Germany and Belgium. It was founded by the Romans, explaining the few remnants of ancient Roman influences in the city. Some of them include Aachen Cathedral and the walls of Vanenum. Moreover, one of the things that makes Aachen a city similar to Rome is its impressive historical architecture. The city has an elegant Gothic facade that will impress everyone who sees it.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Aachen is perfect for history buffs and spa lovers alike.
7. Lyon, France
Lyon is elegant and timeless, just like Rome. While Rome gets the nickname ‘Eternal City’, Lyon is a major economic hub during the Renaissance period. Beautiful Gothic-style cathedrals and impressive museums stand on the city’s grounds. Then, the Fourviere Hill houses Roman theaters and sweeping views, showcasing a storybook-worthy scene. Furthermore, TripLeader Merlin, a travel company owner with 6 years of experience, mentioned that Lyon is the gastronomy capital of France. You can sample some of its immaculate dishes and sip high-quality Burgundy wine.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Lyon blends Roman history with world-class cuisine and charm.
8. Athens, Greece
The country once witnessed an empire as powerful as the Roman Empire, which was ancient Greece. You can see remnants of the legendary historical period in Athens, the history-rich capital of Greece. While Rome houses the iconic Colosseum and Roman Forum, Athens showcases the grand Parthenon and ancient Agora. You can learn about ancient Greece’s history in the city’s amazing museums, including the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum. Therefore, it is one of the best alternatives to Rome for history buffs.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Athens is where history comes alive—before, during, and after Rome.
9. Prague, Czech Republic
We second to everyone who mentions Prague in the list of ‘most beautiful cities in Europe.’ The capital of the Czech Republic looks straight out of a fairytale. Prague is dotted with elegant Gothic churches and opulent Baroque buildings that take you back to the medieval era.
Moreover, like Rome, the city has a lot of history and tales. TripLeader Irina, a world traveler and art enthusiast, mentioned how Prague is a must-visit for art lovers. “The city is filled with magic and mystery, telling some of Europe’s best history, just like Rome,” she stated.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Prague offers timeless architecture with a magical, old-world ambiance
10. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s love affair with thermal baths dates back to Roman times when the area was known as Aquincum. Today, iconic spas like Széchenyi and Gellért carry on that ancient tradition, offering visitors a luxurious way to soak in history—literally. Beyond the baths, Budapest mixes grandeur with grit. From its Neo-Classical architecture to vibrant ruin pubs, the city mirrors Rome’s unique blend of old-world elegance and modern energy.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Budapest combines Roman wellness traditions with an electric vibe.
11. Istanbul, Turkey
Once the heart of the Eastern Roman Empire, Istanbul is steeped in Roman and Byzantine history. Landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and ancient aqueducts reflect centuries of imperial influence. Straddling Europe and Asia, the city is a fusion of cultures, spices, and stories. Its layered past and lively present offer a travel experience as rich and complex as Rome itself.
Why it’s a great alternative to Rome: Istanbul is a living bridge between Rome’s past and the world’s future.
There’s no place quite like Rome, but these 11 incredible cities like Rome bring their own magic to the table. From ancient ruins to vibrant street life, these destinations capture everything we love about the Eternal City—with their own unique twists.
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