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

Should you visit Montpellier 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 Montpellier 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.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a beautiful, friendly, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Montpellier and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Bologna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Montpellier than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Montpellier, Montpellier has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Montpellier is very popular for its museums, beaches, and historical sights, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality. It is also well known for The Place de la Comédie. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Montpellier different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Montpellier 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 Montpellier specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

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 Montpellier or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Montpellier. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

Is Montpellier or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Montpellier has a few options to choose from. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

Is Montpellier or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Montpellier is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Montpellier or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier 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 Montpellier is revered around the world. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

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 Montpellier or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Montpellier.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

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 Montpellier or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Montpellier and Bologna are nice family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Montpellier. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.

Bologna offers lots of family activities. 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 Montpellier or Bologna Better for Couples?

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

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for couples. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great 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 Montpellier or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier and Bologna are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

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 Montpellier or Bologna Better for Students?

Montpellier and Bologna are first-rate places to visit for students.

Montpellier is a very popular place to visit for students. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

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.

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

Montpellier is a well-known place 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Montpellier. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

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

Is Montpellier or Bologna a more walkable city?

Montpellier and Bologna both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Montpellier is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

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 Montpellier Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

One day in Montpellier or Bologna?

In Montpellier, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Montpellier or Bologna?

In Montpellier, 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 Montpellier has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Bologna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Montpellier or Bologna?

Montpellier is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The beautiful city of Bologna offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Montpellier or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Montpellier. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. 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 France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Montpellier. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier 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 Montpellier 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 Montpellier or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Bologna. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Montpellier, it's very sunny this time of the year. Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Montpellier gets 351 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Bologna. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montpellier or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Montpellier in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Montpellier often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Montpellier gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. In January, Montpellier is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 7°C (44°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Montpellier usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Montpellier gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Montpellier usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montpellier or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Montpellier during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Montpellier. In the spring, Montpellier often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Montpellier gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Montpellier usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Montpellier