A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Cefalu vs. Bologna for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a charming, coastal, and historic fishing village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

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.

Cefalu and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cefalu. Although Cefalu and Bologna are both popular with visitors, Cefalu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bologna is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Cefalu is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. It is also home to the beaches. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Cefalu different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bologna is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Bologna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

Is the Food Better in Cefalu or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Dining out in Cefalu is an experience not to be missed. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options 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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bologna is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cefalu. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Cefalu is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

Cefalu is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Cefalu and Bologna.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cefalu. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Bologna?

Bologna is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Bologna is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Cefalu and Bologna are good family-friendly destinations.

Cefalu is a family-friendly fishing village. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

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.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Couples?

Cefalu 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, Cefalu has plenty to offer. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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 Cefalu or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Cefalu or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Bologna is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Bologna a more walkable city?

Cefalu and Bologna are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Bologna?

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

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

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

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village 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 Cefalu or Bologna?

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Bologna?

Cefalu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cefalu or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 culinary 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, 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 Cefalu and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. And not only is Cefalu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cefalu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cefalu 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 Cefalu.

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

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cefalu in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bologna. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the summer, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Bologna. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 19°C (67°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bologna. In October, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Bologna. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Cefalu during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cefalu 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. Cefalu is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Bologna. The spring months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the spring, Cefalu is a little warmer than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cefalu in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Bologna. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Cefalu