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

Should you visit Bruges 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 Bruges 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.

Bruges

Bruges is a beautiful, historic, and charming city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a fun, historical, and culinary city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Bologna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bruges than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Bruges, Bruges has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bruges is very popular for its museums, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Bruges is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. It is also well known for Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Bruges different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bruges 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 Bruges specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije 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 Bruges or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Bologna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bruges makes for a great culinary experience. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Is Bruges or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is great for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Bruges or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bruges 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 Bruges is revered around the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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 Bruges or Bologna?

Bologna is great for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Bruges or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Bruges and Bologna are nice family-friendly destinations.

Bruges offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

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.

Is Bruges or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Bruges is a very popular place to visit for couples. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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 Bruges or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bruges and Bologna are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bologna. 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 Bruges or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges 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.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges and Bologna both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

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

Is Bruges or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges on foot. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and 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 Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bruges and Bologna. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

In Bruges, 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.

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 Bruges or Bologna?

In Bruges, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bruges 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 Bruges or Bologna?

Bruges 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 Bruges or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges 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 Bruges or Bologna?

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 Bruges or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Bruges during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Bruges is cooler than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Bologna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bruges. In the summer, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Bologna. Many visitors come to Bruges in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Bruges is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bruges in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bologna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bruges usually receives less rain than Bologna. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bruges or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Bologna. Most visitors come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Bruges can be very cold during winter. In January, Bruges is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 3°C (38°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bruges because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

Bruges is cooler than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives less rain than Bologna. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Bruges