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

Should you visit Beaune or Bologna?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Beaune and Bologna. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Beaune

Beaune is a vineyard-filled, cultural, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. 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.

Beaune and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beaune or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaune. Although Beaune and Bologna are both popular with visitors, Beaune has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaune is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Bologna is known for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beaune is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its surrounding vineyards and world-renowned wines. It is also home to The Surrounding Vineyards. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Beaune different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaune 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 Beaune specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights and museums around town include Hôtel-Dieu (a former hospital), Château de Savigny, and Château de la Rochepot.

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 Beaune or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Beaune and Bologna.

Eat your way through Beaune, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

For foodies, Bologna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Beaune or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Beaune is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Bologna know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Beaune has a few options to choose from. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

Is Beaune or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Beaune is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Beaune is revered around the world. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

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 Beaune or Bologna?

Bologna is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Beaune is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Bologna is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Beaune has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Boutiques, wine shops, and independent vendors are fun to explore in town.

Is Beaune or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Beaune and Bologna are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beaune. The town has museums like Hospices de Beaune, Hotel-Dieu (a formal hospital), as well as vineyards that you can hike through. Many people enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride while they're in the region.

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 Beaune or Bologna Better for Couples?

Beaune is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Beaune has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy exploring vineyards, sipping French wine, and wandering through the charming old town. There are breathtaking hot air balloon rides and wonderful French restaurants that make for a romantic trip.

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 Beaune or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a great destination for backpackers. However, Beaune is a town with minimal options 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.

Beaune is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a charming town, but it's not on many backpacker's itineraries. There are also a limited number of hostels to choose from.

Is Beaune or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is terrific for students. However, Beaune is not popular with students.

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.

Beaune is not popular with students.

Is Beaune 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 Beaune and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Beaune, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

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

Is Beaune or Bologna a more walkable city?

Beaune is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Beaune on foot. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

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 Beaune Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Beaune?

How long in Beaune or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

In Beaune, 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 town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Beaune or Bologna?

In Beaune, 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 Beaune has to offer.

Bologna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Beaune or Bologna?

Beaune 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Beaune or Bologna?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun destination of Bologna. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Beaune and Bologna, we can see that Beaune 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 Beaune Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beaune or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaune. When comparing the sizes of Beaune 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 Beaune 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 Beaune or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaune and Bologna. Many travelers come to Beaune for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beaune is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaune in July average around 21°C (70°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 Beaune, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaune usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Beaune gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Beaune usually receives more rain than Bologna. Beaune gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beaune or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beaune as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Beaune in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Beaune is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Beaune average around 13°C (55°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Beaune often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Beaune gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Beaune usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Beaune gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beaune or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Beaune are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beaune for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bologna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bologna can be very cold. Beaune can be very cold during winter. Beaune is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaune averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Beaune usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Beaune gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaune usually receives less rain than Bologna. Beaune 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 Beaune or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Beaune during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Beaune because of the small town charm. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the spring, Beaune is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaune in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Beaune often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Beaune gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Beaune usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Beaune gets 52 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 Beaune