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

Should you visit Lisbon or Bologna?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Bologna

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

Lisbon and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Bologna. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Lisbon different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Lisbon and Bologna can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Bologna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Is Lisbon or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon just to party. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Bologna Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Bologna is not a live music destination.

In Lisbon you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Bologna Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Lisbon is revered around the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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).

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Bologna?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Lisbon is a world class destination for shoppers. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Lisbon or Bologna Better for Families?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Bologna is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Lisbon or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Bologna a more walkable city?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisbon and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lisbon than in Bologna. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Bologna?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Lisbon or Bologna?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Lisbon or Bologna?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Bologna?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Bologna. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 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 Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Bologna. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, 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.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 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, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bologna. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon 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 January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Bologna. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Bologna. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bologna because of the natural beauty.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Bologna. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Lisbon