Paris or Rome for a first-time Europe trip?

[HeyJules]

I’m planning my first trip to Europe and trying to decide between Paris and Rome. I’ve always wanted to see the Eiffel Tower and walk the Seine, but Rome looks like it has more culture, food, and energy. For anyone who’s been, which one would you pick for a first-timer? Also wondering how it felt moving around while Black. Let me know if there’s anything I should watch out for too.

 

[Nene Leakes]

I’ve been to both, and I’d say go with Rome. Paris is beautiful but felt kind of cold. People weren’t rude, but it was hard to connect. I didn’t deal with any racism or anything, but I definitely felt invisible sometimes, which isn't a bad thing. Rome felt more down to earth. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

 

[AshbyBlue]

Same here. Paris has the looks but Rome has the soul. I did Paris first and enjoyed it, especially places like the Louvre and shopping along Champs-Élysées. But I kept watching my bag the whole time. Metro was packed and pickpockets were slick. Rome had its spots too, but I felt more relaxed. I stayed near the Colosseum and just walked the city. Every block had something historic. It’s hard to beat that.

 

[HeyJules]

That’s what I keep hearing. Paris has the pretty views but Rome feels more alive. I wanna feel the culture, not just take pictures. I still kind of want to see Versailles though. But Rome just sounds easier to vibe with. How many days would y’all stay?

 

[Nene Leakes]

That’s what I keep hearing. Paris has the pretty views but Rome feels more alive. I wanna feel the culture, not just take pictures. I still kind of want to see Versailles though. But Rome just sounds easier to vibe with. How many days would y’all stay?

Give it five or six full days if you can. That gives you time to see sites like the Colosseum, Vatican, Trevi Fountain, and even do a day trip. Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast are both solid if you want to get out the city for a bit. If you're adventurous, climb Mt. Vesuvius while in Pompeii. Try not to overpack your schedule. Rome is the kind of place you want to wander through.

 

[AshbyBlue]

I’d say the same. Don’t try to rush it. I did five days and still didn’t see everything. Food and streets were enough for me though. Just bring real walking shoes. The cobblestones will humble you quick.

 

[HeyJules]

Y’all making me lean real hard toward Rome now. Paris still calling me a little bit, mostly for the aesthetics. But if I’m being honest, I want something with depth. Might look into a split trip. Like maybe three days in Paris, then train it to Rome.

 

[MessyMadam]

I've been to both Paris and Italy, but ngl I loved them both for different reasons, as they both had their own charms, but one thing I love about Italy is the food. TRY THE PASTA