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

Should you visit Dijon or Bologna?

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

Should I visit Dijon or Bologna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Dijon

Dijon is a historical, cultural, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a historical, culinary, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dijon and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dijon or Bologna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dijon than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Dijon, Dijon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dijon is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Bologna is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Dijon is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards. Also, Dijon is famous for The Ducal Palace. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Dijon different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dijon 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 Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

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 Dijon or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Dijon and Bologna.

For foodies, Dijon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Bologna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Dijon or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is notable for nightlife. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Bologna has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dijon. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Dijon or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is notable for its historic old town. However, Dijon does not have a historic old town.

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).

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dijon or Bologna?

Bologna is notable for shopping. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Bologna is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Dijon or Bologna Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Dijon or Bologna.

Dijon is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Bologna is a family-friendly city. 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 Dijon or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Dijon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

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 Dijon or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is notable for backpackers. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Dijon or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is terrific for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Bologna. 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.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Both Dijon and Bologna offer notable public transit options.

Dijon has a few public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

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

Is Dijon or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Dijon?

How long in Dijon or Bologna?

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

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

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

In Dijon, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Bologna, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this culinary destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dijon or Bologna?

In Dijon, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dijon has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Five days in Dijon or Bologna?

Dijon 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.

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bologna. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dijon or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dijon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dijon. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the culinary destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Dijon and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Dijon or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Dijon 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 Dijon 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 Dijon or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Dijon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dijon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dijon is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Dijon average around 21°C (70°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bologna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dijon. Dijon usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Dijon gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dijon usually receives more rain than Bologna. Dijon gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dijon or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Dijon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dijon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Dijon is cooler than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dijon averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Dijon often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Dijon gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dijon usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Dijon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dijon or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dijon and Bologna. Many visitors come to Dijon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bologna can be very cold during winter. Dijon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Dijon is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dijon in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Dijon usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Dijon gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dijon usually receives less rain than Bologna. Dijon gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dijon or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dijon as well as Bologna. Most visitors come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Bologna because of the natural beauty.

In April, Dijon is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Dijon average around 11°C (53°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dijon often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Dijon gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Dijon usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Dijon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Dijon