Italy Vs Spain

A holiday in Europe is probably the most sought after on every traveler’s wish list. Be it backpacking through Europe or indulging in a luxury tour, there’s something for everyone; all budgets and all holiday styles. Of all the destinations in Europe, Italy and Spain are by the far the most popular amongst tourists with the capital cities of both presenting amazing experiences.

Similar in culture and customs yet unique in their own ways, it’s difficult to compare these iconic countries in terms of ‘better’ or ‘worse’. Depending on your travel style, a holiday in Italy is about re-living the Renaissance. There is a lot to see and do by way of arts and history, culture and cuisine. It’s perfect for those looking for a more enriching and intellectual holiday experience. Spain is more diverse and has a lot to offer from beaches to cities to mountains. A holiday here is generally more laidback. It’s about soaking in its fun and vibrant character, which goes down well with those looking to relax without a set holiday agenda.

Rome

The ‘Eternal City’ of Rome is the capital of Italy. Centuries old basilicas and historic monuments are found in abundance here. The majestic and historical Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine is Rome’s most prominent structure.  The Pantheon is an architectural marvel that was built to “honour the Gods”. It’s the largest unsupported and reinforced dome in the world. Locally known as Scalina Spagna, the Spanish Steps are always bustling with locals and tourists. The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly one of the most iconic fountains in the world. Representative of Baroque style architecture, several visitors come from near and far to toss a coin in to the fountain and make a wish. If you’re looking to make your dreams come true, remember to toss a coin with your right hand over the left shoulder!

Where To Stay:  
As with most tourist cities, Rome offers a variety of places to stay in to suit every budget. If you’re in a mood to splurge, Rome’s many centrally located designer and luxury hotels are the way to go. These include La Scelta Di Goeth, The St. Regis Rome Hotel and The First Luxury Art Hotel Roma. For more budget conscious travellers, Rome has several options including Hotel Stella Rome, H 2000 Roma Hotel and Madison Hotel Rome.  

Madrid

You can catch several glimpses of its historical roots in modern day Madrid, Spain’s capital city. The city is home to parks, plazas and palaces. Art lovers will be delighted to visit the Prado Museum. It houses one of the world's finest collections of European art dating from the 12th to19th centuries including works by Peter Paul Reubens and Francisco de Goya. Near the Prado Museum is the Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid or royal botanical garden dating back to the 18th century. The eight hectare grounds feature collections of ornamental, medicinal and aromatic plants and orchards. The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of Spain’s royal family. Though members don’t reside here, it is symbolic of Spain’s history and culture. Surrounded by three-story residential buildings, the rectangular Plaza Mayor is Madrid’s main square. With cafes and shops, it’s also the venue of several public events.

Where To Stay: Being urban and populated, accommodation options in Madrid are easy to come by depending on your budget. If you’re looking for high end hotels, opt for Wellington Hotel Madrid, Hotel Ritz Madrid and Melia Castilla Hotel. Madrid also has several bed and breakfasts and budget hotels that are well located including Hostal Pizarro Madrid, Aquaria Negresco Hotel and Hostal Residencia Don Diego.

As far as budgeting for your European holiday to either Italy or Spain or both, it all depends on how fancy or low-key you’d like to go. With plenty of free things to see and do in both countries, you don’t necessarily need to burn a hole in your pocket to enjoy your holiday to Italy or Spain. Here’s an approximate cost comparison of prices in Rome and Madrid:-

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.