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

Should you visit Dresden or Bologna?

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

Should I visit Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a architectural, cultural, and park-filled 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dresden and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dresden or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dresden than Bologna. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dresden is very popular for its big city activities, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). It is also well known for Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Dresden different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Dresden or Bologna.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dresden. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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 Dresden or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Bologna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Dresden or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Dresden or Bologna has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Dresden know how to have a good time. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

The nightlife in Bologna has something for everybody. 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.

Is Dresden or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Dresden and Bologna.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Dresden or Bologna?

Bologna is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Dresden or Bologna Better for Families?

Bologna is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Dresden or Bologna Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Dresden and Bologna make for a nice place to visit.

Dresden is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating 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 Dresden or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bologna is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Dresden or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Dresden is not popular with students.

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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dresden and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

While Bologna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Dresden or Bologna a more walkable city?

Dresden and Bologna both are great when exploring on foot.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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 Dresden Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Bologna?

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

Families should spend more time in Bologna than Dresden. 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 Dresden. 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Bologna?

In Dresden, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

In Bologna, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.

A weekend in Dresden or Bologna?

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

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

Five days in Dresden or Bologna?

Dresden is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Dresden or Bologna?

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

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dresden or Bologna?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Bologna. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dresden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences.

Dresden is cooler than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In July, Dresden usually receives more rain than Bologna. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dresden or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dresden as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dresden is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dresden in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Dresden usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dresden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bologna can be very cold during winter. Dresden can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dresden is generally much colder than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 1°C (33°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In January, Dresden usually receives less rain than Bologna. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dresden or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Dresden during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dresden for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bologna because of the natural beauty.

Dresden is cooler than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Dresden