A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Bologna for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Antwerp or Bologna?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Bologna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a youthful, vibrant, and authentic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antwerp is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food and impressive beauty. Bologna is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Bologna?

Antwerp is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

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 Antwerp or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Bologna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Antwerp or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Bologna.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Antwerp or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp and Bologna are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

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).

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Bologna?

Antwerp 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.

Antwerp is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

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 Antwerp or Bologna Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Bologna.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Bologna offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Antwerp or Bologna Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Bologna are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Bologna is a good port city for couples to visit. 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 Antwerp or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bologna is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Antwerp or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Bologna. 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.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Is Antwerp 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 Antwerp and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

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

Is Antwerp or Bologna a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Bologna both are very good when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Bologna. In our opinion, Bologna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bologna than Antwerp. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bologna than Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Bologna?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bologna, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Bologna?

In Antwerp, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.

In Bologna, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Bologna?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Antwerp or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bologna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bologna than you might in Antwerp.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Bologna?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp 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 Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Bologna. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the summer, Antwerp is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Bologna. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Bologna. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bologna can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Bologna. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Antwerp during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Antwerp