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

Should you visit Arachova or Bologna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova 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.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Arachova or Bologna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arachova than Bologna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arachova is better known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm, while Bologna is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Arachova is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Also, Arachova is famous for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Arachova different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Bologna Better for Skiing?

Arachova is very good for snow skiing. However, Bologna is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Bologna is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Arachova and Bologna have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Bologna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Arachova or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bologna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

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

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

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 Arachova or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Arachova and Bologna both have excellent historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Bologna is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is Arachova or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Arachova is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Arachova is a popular spot for hiking. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Bologna?

Bologna is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Bologna is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Arachova or Bologna Better for Families?

Arachova is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Bologna is a family-friendly town. 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 Arachova or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Arachova is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

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 Arachova or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bologna. 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Arachova or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

Is Arachova 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 Arachova and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

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

Is Arachova or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Bologna. In our opinion, Bologna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bologna than Arachova. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 city of Bologna offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Bologna?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arachova has to offer.

Bologna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bologna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Bologna?

Arachova 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. 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.

Bologna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. And not only is Arachova much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Arachova would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Arachova 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 Arachova.

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

Which is Bigger, Arachova or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Bologna. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Bologna. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Arachova or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Bologna. The autumn months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

Arachova is a little warmer than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arachova or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arachova 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 the winter, Arachova is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Bologna. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Arachova or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Arachova for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Arachova