A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Bologna vs. Bellagio for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bologna or Bellagio?

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 Bologna and Bellagio can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a glamorous, opulent, and beautiful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and shopping.

Bologna and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bologna or Bellagio?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bologna. Although Bologna and Bellagio are both popular with visitors, Bologna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bologna is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Bellagio is known for its small town charm. Bellagio is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. It is also home to Piazza Maggiore.

How is Bologna different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bologna
Bellagio

Bologna is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.


Is the Food Better in Bologna or Bellagio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna
Bellagio

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

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).

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Bologna or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Bologna
Bellagio

Bologna is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options 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.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Bologna or Bellagio Better for its Old Town?

Bologna
Bellagio

Bologna is a great destination for its old town. However, Bellagio does not have a historic old town.

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).

Bellagio does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bologna or Bellagio?

Bologna
Bellagio

Bologna is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Bologna or Bellagio Better for Families?

Bologna
Bellagio

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

Bologna is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Bellagio is a family-friendly city. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Is Bologna or Bellagio Better for Couples?

Bologna
Bellagio

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

Bellagio is a very popular place to visit for couples. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

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 Bologna or Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna
Bellagio

Bologna is a great destination for backpackers. However, Bellagio 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.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Bologna or Bellagio Better for Students?

Bologna
Bellagio

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

Bologna is a very popular city 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.

Bellagio is not popular with students.

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

Bologna
Bellagio

Both Bologna and Bellagio offer good public transit options.

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

Bellagio has some public transit options. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.


Is Bologna or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Bologna
Bellagio

Bellagio 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 Bellagio on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored 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 Bologna Worth Visiting? and Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Bologna?

How long in Bologna or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bologna or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bologna than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bologna, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

Families should spend more time in Bologna than Bellagio. 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.

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


  • How many days in Bologna or Bellagio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bologna 1-3 
    Bellagio 1-2

One day in Bologna or Bellagio?

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.

Bellagio is a small town with plenty to do. This town 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 Bologna or Bellagio?

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.

Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Bellagio has to offer.


Five days in Bologna or Bellagio?

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.

Bellagio 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.

A week in Bologna or Bellagio?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bellagio. Since Bellagio is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Bellagio or Bologna?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bologna is €159, while the average daily cost in Bellagio is €222. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bologna and Bellagio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bologna 87
    Bellagio 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bologna 174
    Bellagio 332
Compare Hotels in Bologna and Bellagio

Looking for a hotel in Bologna or Bellagio? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bologna


Hotels in Bellagio


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bologna Hotel Prices and Bellagio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bologna 21
    Bellagio 9.02

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bologna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bologna:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Bologna Airport BLQ to Modena or Verona by Business Van: $163
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City in Business Car: $123
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City in Luxury Van: $138
  • Arrival Transfer Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City by Sedan: $56
  • Arrival Transfer from Ravenna/Cruise Port to Venice Piazzale Roma: $122
  • Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Private Transfer: $166
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Bologna - Arrival Private Transfer: $47
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Bologna - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $88
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Florence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $175
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Ravenna Cruise Port - Arrival Transfer : $89
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Ravenna city or Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $115

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bellagio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bellagio:

  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Bellagio: $358
  • From Bellagio : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $389

Is it cheaper to fly into Bologna or Bellagio?

Prices for flights to both Bellagio and Bologna change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bologna 39
    Bellagio 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bologna

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bologna.

  • Exclusive Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $11
  • Exclusive Bologna Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $11
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Ravioli variations with classic tomato sauce: $36
  • Cooking Lesson at Casa della Zdora for Small Groups: $50
  • Bologna Private Food Tour Eating around the Centre: $67
  • Bologna Traditional Home Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner: $74
  • Bologna Food Tour including Tagliatelle, Mortadella, Wine: $75
  • Traditional Recipes Cooking Class with Local Wines: $84
  • Walking Food Tour with a Local Guide: $86
  • Tastes and Traditions Food Tour with Market Visit: $86
  • Hands on Home Cooking Class: $86
  • Tastes & Traditions of Food Tour with Market Visit: $88

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bellagio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bellagio.

  • Como Lake: cooking class Italian style in Bellagio: $195
  • Cooking Class with Lunch with the chef: $543

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bologna 38
    Bellagio -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bologna

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bologna are as follows:


  • Food Tour (for 2)
    31
  • Wine Tasting Tour (for 2)
    115
  • Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour (for 2)
    67
  • National Gallery Museum Bologna (for 2)
    12
  • Archaeology Museum of Bologna (for 2)
    12

Tours and Activities in Bologna

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bologna are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.27
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.90
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Porta Galliera to Le Tre Frecce: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Historical Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.53
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.53
  • Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.66
  • Ancient and Recent History Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bologna's Ancient and Recent History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bologna TOUR ESCAPE: King Enzo Jailbreak: $9.80
  • Guided tour of the exhibition "Mimmo Paladino in the Pope’s: $9.80
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Bellagio

Here are a few actual costs in Bellagio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Lake Como Boat Tour from Bellagio (shared): $43
  • Lake Como: Villa Melzi Garden Entry Ticket with Ferries: $72
  • Lake Como: Villa Carlotta Entry Tickets with Ferries: $80
  • From Milan: Bellagio & Lake Como Small Group Tour: $91
  • Lake Como: Small-Group Kayak Tour: $95
  • From Milan: Como & Bellagio Guided Tour & Lake Como Cruise: $97
  • Lake Como Sunset Kayak Villas Experience: $120
  • Lake Como: Golden Hour Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Vintage Wooden Boat Rowing Experience on Lake Como: $191
  • Exclusive Lake Como Boat Tour From Bellagio: $436

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bologna 28
    Bellagio 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bologna

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bologna:

  • Wine Tasting: $20
  • In Imola, visit to the winery with wine tasting at Tre Monti: $22
  • Modena area: Lambrusco Wine Tasting Experience: $39
  • In Bologna wine tasting and visit to the Palazzona di Maggio Estate: $50
  • From Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with the winemaker: $54
  • Bologna Food & Wine tour with a local Chef: $70
  • Wine Tasting Tour in One of the Oldest Inns: $71
  • Bologna Wine Tasting in One of the Oldest Inns: $72
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting with an Expert Guide and Sommelier: $74
  • Wine Tasting Experience with a Local Guide: $102
  • Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour with Tasting in Dozza Village: $104
  • Taste the real Bologna Food and Wine tour: $109


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bologna and Bellagio, we can see that Bellagio is more expensive. And not only is Bologna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bologna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bologna 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 Bellagio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bellagio than you might in Bologna.

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


Which is Bigger, Bologna or Bellagio?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Bellagio. When comparing the sizes of Bologna and Bellagio, 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 Bologna or Bellagio?

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 Bologna or Bellagio in the Summer?

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

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bellagio this time of the year. In Bologna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bologna usually receives more sunshine than Bellagio during summer. Bologna gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

Bellagio receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Bologna usually receives less rain than Bellagio. Bologna gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bologna 24°C (75°F) 
    Bellagio 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Bologna or Bellagio in the Autumn?

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

Bologna is around the same temperature as Bellagio in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bologna averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Bellagio fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Bologna often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Bologna gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bellagio. Bologna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bologna usually gets less rain in October than Bellagio. Bologna gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bologna 16°C (61°F) 
    Bellagio 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bologna or Bellagio in the Winter?

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

The weather in Bellagio can be very cold. Bologna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bologna is much colder than Bellagio. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bologna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bellagio averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Bologna usually receives less sunshine than Bellagio during winter. Bologna gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bellagio receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bologna usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bellagio. Bologna gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bologna 2°C (36°F) 
    Bellagio 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Bologna or Bellagio in the Spring?

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

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

In the spring, Bologna often gets more sunshine than Bellagio. Bologna gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bellagio receives 176 hours of full sun.

Bellagio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bologna usually gets less rain in April than Bellagio. Bologna gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bellagio receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bologna 13°C (55°F) 
    Bellagio 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bellagio and Bologna

Bologna Bellagio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 75 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 76 mm (3 in) 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)