A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Como vs. Bologna for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Como or Bologna?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Como or Bologna, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty in Como as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Como travel costs.

Bologna

Bologna is a culinary, beautiful, and fun city. With stunning beauty, Bologna attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Bologna travel costs.

Como and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Como or Bologna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Como than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Como, Como has more sights and attractions for tourists. Como is very popular for its beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bologna attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights. Como is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also well known for the lakeside setting. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Como different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bologna is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Como and Bologna.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Como is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

Many restaurants in Bologna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Is Como or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Bologna has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Como or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Como is very good for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Como to enjoy the beach. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Como or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Como does not have a historic old town.

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).

Como does not have a historic old town.

Is Como or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Como is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Como is a popular spot for hiking. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Como or Bologna?

Como is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Como is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Como or Bologna More Beautiful?

Como is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Como as well. The charming villages and beautiful lakeside setting make this and idyllic place to visit in Italy.

Bologna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's history and architecture make it among the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Is Como or Bologna Better for Families?

Como is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Como is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Bologna is a family-friendly lake area. 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 Como or Bologna Better for Couples?

Como 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, Como has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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 Como or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como and Bologna are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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 Como or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Como is not popular with students.

Bologna is a great destination 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.

Como is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Como and Bologna.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

You'll find some public transit in Bologna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Como or Bologna a more walkable city?

Como and Bologna are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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 Como Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Como?

How long in Como or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Como and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Como than in Bologna. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Como, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

In Como, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This lake area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bologna. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Como or Bologna?

In Como, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Como has to offer.

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Como or Bologna?

Como is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Bologna. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Como or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Como. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Como. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The culinary city of Bologna offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Como and Bologna, we can see that Como is more expensive. And not only is Bologna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bologna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bologna 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como than you might in Bologna.

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

Which is Bigger, Como or Bologna?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Como as well as Bologna. Most visitors come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

Como is around the same temperature as Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Como averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 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 Como this time of the year. In the summer, Como often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Como gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Como usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Como gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Como or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Como are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Como because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the autumn, Como is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Como in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Como usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Como gets 152 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. It's quite rainy in Como. In October, Como usually receives less rain than Bologna. Como gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Como or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Como during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Como this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bologna. It's quite cold in Como in the winter. In January, Como is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Como average around 5°C (41°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Como often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Como gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Como usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. Como gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Como or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Como and Bologna. Many travelers come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Como is around the same temperature as Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Como averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Como usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Como gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Como usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Como gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Como