A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Messina vs. Bologna for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Messina 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 Messina 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.

Messina

Messina is a local, historic, and bustling port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, 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.

Messina and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Bologna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Messina than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Messina, Messina has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Messina is better known for its beaches and big city activities, while Bologna is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Messina is well known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. Also, Messina is famous for Piazza del Duomo. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Messina different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Messina and Bologna have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Bologna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Messina or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Messina and Bologna.

Messina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. 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 Messina or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Messina is a moderate port city for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

The beach in Messina is worth checking out. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Messina or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is well known for its historic old town. However, Messina 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).

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Bologna?

Bologna is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Messina or Bologna Better for Families?

Messina 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.

Messina is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Bologna is a family-friendly port 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 Messina or Bologna Better for Couples?

Both Messina and Bologna are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Messina is a nice destination for couples. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Bologna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Messina or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Messina or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is renowned for students. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Bologna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Messina or Bologna a more walkable city?

Messina and Bologna both are superb when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Messina?

How long in Messina or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Messina and Bologna. In our opinion, Bologna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bologna than Messina. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

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

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 Messina or Bologna?

In Messina, 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 Messina 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 Messina or Bologna?

Messina 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 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 Messina or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Messina. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Bologna. Many visitors come to Messina in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Messina is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 27°C (80°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 Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Bologna. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Messina as well as Bologna. Most visitors come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Messina is a little warmer than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Messina usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Messina 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. In the winter, Messina is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Messina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Messina usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Messina. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Bologna. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Messina during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Messina. In the spring, Messina often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Messina