A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Genoa vs. Bologna for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Genoa or Bologna?

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

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

Genoa

Genoa is a historic, vibrant, and colorful port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a fun, historical, and culinary city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Genoa or Bologna?

Both Bologna and Genoa have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Genoa is very popular for its museums and beaches, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Genoa different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Genoa 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 Genoa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Genoa or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Genoa or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a moderate port city for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

The beach in Genoa is worth checking out. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Genoa or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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).

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Genoa or Bologna?

Bologna is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Genoa or Bologna Better for Families?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Bologna is a family-friendly port 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 Genoa or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Genoa and Bologna are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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

Genoa is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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

Is Genoa or Bologna a more walkable city?

Genoa and Bologna are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore 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 Genoa Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Genoa?

How long in Genoa or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 fun 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 Genoa or Bologna?

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Genoa 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 Genoa or Bologna?

Genoa 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 Genoa or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. 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 historical 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Genoa or Bologna?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Genoa 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 Genoa 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 Genoa or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Genoa during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

Genoa is around the same temperature as Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Genoa averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Bologna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Genoa. In the summer, Genoa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Genoa gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets less rain in July than Bologna. Genoa gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Genoa and Bologna. The autumn months attract visitors to Genoa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the autumn, Genoa is a little warmer than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Genoa in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Genoa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during autumn. Genoa gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bologna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Genoa usually receives less rain than Bologna. Genoa gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Genoa or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Genoa as well as Bologna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Genoa this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bologna. In January, Genoa is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Genoa average around 11°C (51°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Genoa often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Genoa gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bologna. Genoa gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Genoa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Genoa is a little warmer than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Genoa averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Genoa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during spring. Genoa gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Genoa usually receives less rain than Bologna. Genoa gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Genoa