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

Should you visit Hydra or Bologna?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a charming, accessible, and quaint island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Bologna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hydra than Bologna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hydra is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm, while Bologna is more popular for its food and nightlife. Hydra is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. Also, Hydra is famous for The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Hydra different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hydra 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 Hydra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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 Hydra or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra 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).

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Bologna know how to have a good time. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its resorts. However, Bologna is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Hydra is very good for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

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 Hydra or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Hydra is a popular spot for hiking. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for Families?

Hydra 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.

Hydra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

Bologna is a family-friendly island. 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 Hydra or Bologna Better for Couples?

Hydra is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Hydra has plenty to offer. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is a world-class destination for students. However, Hydra 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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Bologna is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Bologna a more walkable city?

Hydra 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 Hydra on foot. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and 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 Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This island 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this culinary 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 Hydra or Bologna?

Hydra might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra 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 Hydra or Bologna?

Hydra 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 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 Hydra or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Bologna. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bologna. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Hydra is a little warmer than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Hydra 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 Hydra or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hydra 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. In the winter, Hydra is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bologna. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Hydra during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bologna because of the natural beauty.

In April, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Hydra