A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bologna vs. Mont-Saint-Michel for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

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 Mont-Saint-Michel 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.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel is a breathtaking, inspiring, and iconic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Bologna and Mont-Saint-Michel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bologna. Although Bologna and Mont-Saint-Michel are both popular with visitors, Bologna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bologna is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mont-Saint-Michel is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mont-Saint-Michel is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its Gothic-style abbey and its medieval village that stands at its base. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

Mont-Saint-Michel is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Mont-Saint-Michel on the map. Visitors come to see the iconic Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel which has been the inspiration for tourists and religious pilgrims for centuries. Make sure you see the Ramparts and La Grande Rue.

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 Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel 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).

Mont-Saint-Michel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of local restaurants to choose from that serve authentic French cuisine including the pre-salted sheep, which is a local specialty.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Mont-Saint-Michel Most people visit the island as a daytrip and nightlife is essentially nonexistent.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is a great destination for its old town. However, Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Mont-Saint-Michel does not have a historic old town.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Hiking?

Mont-Saint-Michel is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. There's a 4.2 mile out and back trail that can be walked in about 1.5 hours.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bologna is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Families?

Bologna is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is a island with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bologna. 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.

For families, Mont-Saint-Michel is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride or exploring the grounds, but it can make for a long day for kids with short attention spans.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Couples?

Mont-Saint-Michel 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, Mont-Saint-Michel has plenty to offer. It's a stunning setting and makes a romantic backdrop for a couples holiday, whether it's part of a longer trip to France or a short weekend away.

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 Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel. You'll find a couple of hostels an cheap hotels in the area.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Students?

Bologna is a world-class destination for students. However, Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

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.

Mont-Saint-Michel is not popular with students.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Bologna and Mont-Saint-Michel offer good public transit options.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel has some public transit options. There's a free shuttle bus that connects Mont-Saint-Michel to the mainland.

Is Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel a more walkable city?

Bologna and Mont-Saint-Michel both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Mont-Saint-Michel is very walkable. There are many stunning walks in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bologna Worth Visiting? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mont-Saint-Michel or Bologna?

How long in Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bologna than Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel.

Families should spend more time in Bologna than Mont-Saint-Michel. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bologna than Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Bologna, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This island 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Bologna, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

In Mont-Saint-Michel, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mont-Saint-Michel has to offer.

Five days in Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mont-Saint-Michel 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bologna is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Mont-Saint-Michel. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Mont-Saint-Michel. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Bologna and Mont-Saint-Michel, 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 Bologna Expensive? and Is Mont-Saint-Michel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 4640 times larger than the population of Mont-Saint-Michel. When comparing the sizes of Bologna and Mont-Saint-Michel, 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 Mont-Saint-Michel?

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 Mont-Saint-Michel in the Summer?

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

In July, Bologna is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 24°C (75°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mont-Saint-Michel this time of the year. In Bologna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bologna usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during summer. Bologna gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bologna usually receives less rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bologna gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bologna as well as Mont-Saint-Michel. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Bologna is a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bologna averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Bologna often gets more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bologna gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 134 hours of full sun.

Bologna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bologna usually gets more rain in October than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bologna gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bologna. In the winter, Bologna is much colder than Mont-Saint-Michel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bologna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Bologna usually receives more sunshine than Mont-Saint-Michel during winter. Bologna gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 70 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bologna usually receives more rain than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bologna gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bologna or Mont-Saint-Michel in the Spring?

Both Mont-Saint-Michel and Bologna during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Mont-Saint-Michel for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Bologna is generally a little warmer than Mont-Saint-Michel. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 13°C (55°F), and Mont-Saint-Michel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Bologna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mont-Saint-Michel. Bologna gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 180 hours of full sun.

Bologna usually gets more rain in April than Mont-Saint-Michel. Bologna gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Mont-Saint-Michel receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mont-Saint-Michel and Bologna