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

Should you visit Lucerne or Bologna?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Bologna. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a active, cultural, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Lucerne and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Bologna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is very popular for its museums and big city activities, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food. Lucerne is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also well known for The Chapel Bridge. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Bologna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Lucerne and Bologna.

Many people head to Lucerne for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Bologna has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Lucerne or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Lucerne and Bologna.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Bologna?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Bologna both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Bologna is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Lucerne or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Bologna are nice family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Bologna is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lucerne or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Bologna is a very popular place to visit 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Lucerne and Bologna both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

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

Is Lucerne or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

In Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

In Bologna, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

A weekend in Lucerne or Bologna?

In Lucerne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer.

In Bologna, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Bologna?

Lucerne 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 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.

A week in Lucerne or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lucerne and Bologna, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Bologna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bologna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bologna 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Bologna.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Lucerne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Lucerne is cooler than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 21°C (70°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 Lucerne. In the summer, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Bologna. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Lucerne is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lucerne in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 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, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Bologna. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lucerne or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Bologna. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Bologna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bologna can be very cold. Lucerne can be very cold during winter. In January, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 3°C (37°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bologna. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

Lucerne is around the same temperature as Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Lucerne