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

Should you visit Dublin or Bologna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dublin than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dublin is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food and impressive beauty. Dublin is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also home to The Guinness Storehouse. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Dublin different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dublin 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 Dublin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bologna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

People head to Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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.

Is Dublin or Bologna Better for Music?

Dublin is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Bologna is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Dublin is very popular with diverse venues. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Dublin and Bologna both have excellent historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Bologna is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Dublin or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Dublin or Bologna Better for Families?

Dublin 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.

Dublin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Dublin is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

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 Dublin or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and Bologna are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Is Dublin or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is terrific for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Is Dublin 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 Dublin and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system 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 Dublin or Bologna a more walkable city?

Dublin is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Dublin on foot. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dublin and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin than in Bologna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Bologna 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 Dublin.

One day in Dublin or Bologna?

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Dublin or Bologna?

In Dublin, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin 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 Dublin or Bologna?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer. 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 Dublin or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

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 Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Bologna?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Bologna. Most visitors come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dublin is much colder than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dublin in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives more rain than Bologna. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Bologna. The autumn months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In October, Dublin is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 11°C (52°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Dublin usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dublin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bologna. Dublin is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dublin usually receives less rain than Bologna. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Dublin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dublin for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dublin is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dublin in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Dublin gets 51 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 Dublin