A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aix-en-Provence vs. Bologna for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Aix-en-Provence or Bologna, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bologna than Aix-en-Provence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bologna is very popular for its nightlife and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its shopping. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. It is also well known for Piazza Maggiore.

How is Aix-en-Provence different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bologna and Aix-en-Provence. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Aix-en-Provence or Bologna.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aix-en-Provence. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Bologna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

Is the Food Better in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Aix-en-Provence and Bologna.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Aix-en-Provence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Many restaurants in Bologna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Bologna is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bologna to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Aix-en-Provence is a world class destination for shoppers. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bologna. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for Families?

Bologna is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bologna. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence is a well-known place for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Bologna is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bologna is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

Aix-en-Provence is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is terrific for students. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Bologna is a great destination for students. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aix-en-Provence and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Aix-en-Provence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

While Bologna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Aix-en-Provence or Bologna a more walkable city?

Aix-en-Provence and Bologna both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

Bologna is very walkable. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Aix-en-Provence?

How long in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aix-en-Provence and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than in Bologna. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Aix-en-Provence, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

Families should spend more time in Bologna than Aix-en-Provence. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bologna, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Bologna. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Aix-en-Provence that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bologna than Aix-en-Provence if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bologna.

One day in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful destination of Bologna offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aix-en-Provence has to offer.

The city of Bologna offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bologna is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Aix-en-Provence. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Coach Bus Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Aix-en-Provence and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Aix-en-Provence and Bologna, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Aix-en-Provence or Bologna?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aix-en-Provence and Bologna. Most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Aix-en-Provence gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than Bologna. Aix-en-Provence gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aix-en-Provence as well as Bologna. The autumn months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the autumn, Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aix-en-Provence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In the autumn, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Aix-en-Provence gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Aix-en-Provence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bologna. In January, Aix-en-Provence is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Aix-en-Provence average around 7°C (44°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Aix-en-Provence usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Aix-en-Provence gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aix-en-Provence usually receives less rain than Bologna. Aix-en-Provence gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aix-en-Provence or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Aix-en-Provence during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Aix-en-Provence is around the same temperature as Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Aix-en-Provence averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. In the spring, Aix-en-Provence often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Aix-en-Provence gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Aix-en-Provence usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Aix-en-Provence gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Aix-en-Provence