Verdict first: pick Rome for dense ancient history on a lower budget; pick Paris for food, café culture, art museums and romance. Rome is meaningfully cheaper — mid-range stays and meals run about 20–30% less, roughly €120–150/day versus €160–200 in Paris; a three-course dinner is about €25–40 in Rome versus €45–65 at a Paris bistro. Rome's landmarks (Colosseum, Pantheon, Forum) are mostly outdoors and walkable; Paris's Louvre, Musée d'Orsay and Pompidou suit indoor, all-weather exploring. The two connect by overnight train (about 11–13 hours) or a roughly 2-hour flight.