A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Milan vs. Bologna for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Attractions

Should you visit Milan 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 Milan 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.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy 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 in Milan as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Milan travel costs.

Bologna

Bologna is a fun, historical, and culinary city. With stunning beauty, Bologna attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bologna travel costs.

Milan and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan than Bologna. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Milan different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Milan 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 Milan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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 Milan or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Milan and Bologna can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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).

Is Milan or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Milan 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 Milan just to party. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan or Bologna Better for Music?

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

In Milan you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Milan or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Milan 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 Milan is revered around the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

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 Milan or Bologna?

Milan 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.

Milan is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan or Bologna More Beautiful?

Milan is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Milan as well. There is stunning architecture and beautiful neighborhoods that you can explore.

Bologna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's history and architecture make it among the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Is Milan or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Milan and Bologna are nice to visit with kids.

Milan offers lots of family activities. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

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 Milan or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

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 Milan or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Milan and Bologna are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

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.

Is Milan or Bologna Better for Students?

For students, both Milan and Bologna are amazing places to visit.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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

Milan 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 Milan can get you around easily. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Milan or Bologna a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Milan?

How long in Milan or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Milan and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Milan than in Bologna. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

One day in Milan or Bologna?

Because Milan 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. 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 beautiful 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 Milan or Bologna?

Because Milan 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. 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 Milan 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 Milan or Bologna?

Milan 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 Milan has to offer. 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 Milan or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milan. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Milan. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Milan and Bologna, we can see that Milan 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 Milan Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Milan or Bologna?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Milan during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Milan in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Milan is around the same temperature as Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 23°C (73°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 Milan. In the summer, Milan often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Bologna. Most visitors come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Milan is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Milan in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Milan usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bologna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Milan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Milan usually receives less rain than Bologna. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Milan or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Milan as well as Bologna. The winter months attract visitors to Milan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. The weather in Milan can be very cold. In January, Milan is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 5°C (41°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Milan often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

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

Milan usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Milan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Milan