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

Should you visit Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a historic, vibrant, and accessible 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 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.

Heraklion and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Bologna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, beaches, and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Heraklion different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heraklion 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 Heraklion specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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 Heraklion or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion 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).

Dining out in Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

Is Heraklion or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Bologna.

Heraklion has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

Bologna is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Heraklion or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion 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).

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Bologna?

Bologna is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Bologna is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Bologna are good to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

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.

Is Heraklion or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for couples. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Bologna are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

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.

Is Heraklion or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with 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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Heraklion and Bologna.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Bologna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Heraklion or Bologna a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Bologna are superb when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Bologna?

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

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

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

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bologna. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Bologna?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Bologna?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Bologna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Bologna?

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

Bologna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Bologna?

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

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

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°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 Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Bologna. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene 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, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 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, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Bologna. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion 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. Heraklion is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Bologna. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bologna in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Bologna. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Heraklion