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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a charming, historical, and less touristy city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. 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.

Bucharest and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bucharest than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bologna is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also home to The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Bucharest and Bologna.

Bucharest offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bologna. 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 Bucharest or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Bologna is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Bologna?

Bologna is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Bologna Better for Families?

Bologna is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Bologna Better for Couples?

Bologna is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is renowned for students. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest 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 Bucharest. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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

Is Bucharest or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Bologna?

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

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

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

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bologna. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Bologna?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Bologna?

Bucharest 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun city of Bologna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bucharest. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Bologna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Bologna?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Bologna. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°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 Bucharest, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Bologna. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bucharest 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. Bucharest can be very cold during winter. Bucharest is much colder than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Bologna. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Bucharest during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the spring, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Bucharest