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

Should you visit Bologna or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bologna

Bologna is a culinary, beautiful, and fun city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a overlooked, quaint, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bologna and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bologna or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sarajevo is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its nightlife. Bologna is more touristy than Sarajevo and is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. Sarajevo is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Bologna different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo?

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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 Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Bologna and Sarajevo both to be first-rate destinations.

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).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sarajevo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

Is Bologna or Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Sarajevo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Bologna or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo is revered around the world. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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 Bologna or Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bologna or Sarajevo?

Both Bologna and Sarajevo are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Is Bologna or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Bologna is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Bologna or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Bologna is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Bologna or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bologna and Sarajevo are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Bologna is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Sarajevo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

Is Bologna or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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

Is Bologna or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Bologna is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Bologna?

How long in Bologna or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bologna and Sarajevo. In our opinion, Bologna has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bologna than Sarajevo. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo.

One day in Bologna or Sarajevo?

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.

In Sarajevo, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 Sarajevo?

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.

In Sarajevo, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Sarajevo has to offer.

Five days in Bologna or Sarajevo?

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.

Sarajevo 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.

A week in Bologna or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarajevo. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bologna or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Bologna and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bologna or Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Bologna during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bologna is generally around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 24°C (75°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bologna. In the summer, Bologna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Bologna gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Bologna usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Bologna gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bologna or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bologna and Sarajevo. Most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bologna is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bologna averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Bologna usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo during autumn. Bologna gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bologna usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Bologna gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bologna or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bologna as well as Sarajevo. The winter months attract visitors to Bologna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

The weather in Bologna can be very cold. In the winter, Bologna is much colder than Sarajevo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bologna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Bologna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Bologna gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Bologna usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Bologna gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bologna or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Bologna are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bologna is generally cooler than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 13°C (55°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Bologna usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Bologna gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Bologna usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Bologna gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Bologna