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

Should you visit Helsinki or Bologna?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Bologna can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a culinary, beautiful, and fun city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Bologna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bologna than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Bologna, Bologna has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bologna is more popular for its food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Helsinki is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. It is also home to Piazza Maggiore.

How is Helsinki different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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 Helsinki or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

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).

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Bologna?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Helsinki and Bologna.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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.

Is Helsinki or Bologna Better for Families?

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Helsinki is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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 Helsinki or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Bologna is a very popular city 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.

Many students visit Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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

Helsinki 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 Helsinki. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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

Is Helsinki or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

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

The beautiful city of Bologna offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Bologna?

In Helsinki, 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 Helsinki has to offer.

Bologna is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bologna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Bologna?

Helsinki 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Bologna?

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

Bologna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Bologna?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Helsinki is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Bologna averages at about 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 Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 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. In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Bologna. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Helsinki during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bologna in the winter. The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. Helsinki is much colder than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Bologna. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Bologna. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Helsinki