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

Should you visit Barcelona or Bologna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Bologna can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Bologna

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

Barcelona and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Bologna?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Bologna. Barcelona is bigger than Bologna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bologna is more popular for its food. Barcelona is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Barcelona different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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 Barcelona or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Barcelona or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

People head to Barcelona just to party. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Bologna has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Barcelona or Bologna Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Bologna is not a live music destination.

In Barcelona you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Barcelona or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Both Barcelona and Bologna have superb historic old towns worth visiting.

Barcelona is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Bologna?

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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 Barcelona or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Barcelona and Bologna are notable to visit with kids.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Bologna is a family-friendly city. 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 Barcelona or Bologna Better for Couples?

Both Barcelona and Bologna are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Barcelona is a nice destination for couples. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Bologna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Barcelona or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Bologna is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Barcelona or Bologna Better for Students?

Barcelona and Bologna are both amazing destinations for students and younger travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Bologna is a very popular place to visit 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.

Is Barcelona or Bologna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Barcelona. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Bologna has some public transit options. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Barcelona or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city 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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Barcelona and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Bologna. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Barcelona, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Bologna 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 Barcelona.

One day in Barcelona or Bologna?

Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bologna. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Bologna?

Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Bologna?

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Bologna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Barcelona or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Because Barcelona is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Bologna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Barcelona 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 Barcelona Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Bologna?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona 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 Barcelona 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 Barcelona or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bologna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during summer. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Barcelona or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Barcelona during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Barcelona is around the same temperature as Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Barcelona usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Bologna. The winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bologna in the winter. In the winter, Barcelona is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Barcelona usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Barcelona gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Bologna. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Barcelona or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Bologna. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

In April, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In the spring, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Barcelona