A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Genoa for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bucharest or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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 historical, less touristy, and undiscovered city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bucharest than Genoa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities, while Genoa is known for its museums, food, beaches, and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. 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 Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Genoa is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. 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.

Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Genoa is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Genoa. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

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 Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bucharest and Genoa.

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Bucharest or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the good old town areas in both Bucharest and Genoa.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the old town. 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.

Genoa has an old town worth visiting. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Genoa?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Genoa and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Genoa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Bucharest or Genoa Better for Families?

Genoa is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

Genoa is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Genoa is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Genoa is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

Genoa is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Genoa.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Genoa offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Bucharest or Genoa a more walkable city?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is a very walkable port city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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 Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Bucharest or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

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

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

One day in Bucharest or Genoa?

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Genoa. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Genoa. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Genoa?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic port city of Genoa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Genoa is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Genoa, we can see that Genoa 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 Genoa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Genoa 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 Genoa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Genoa?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Bucharest or Genoa in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Genoa in the Autumn?

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

In October, Bucharest is generally much colder than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Genoa. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Genoa in the Winter?

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

The weather in Bucharest can be very cold. Bucharest is much colder than Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Genoa. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Genoa in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Bucharest is cooler than Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Genoa during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Genoa. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Bucharest