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

Should you visit Mykonos 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 Mykonos 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a ritzy, opulent, and picturesque Greek island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a historical, culinary, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mykonos than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mykonos is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Mykonos different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mykonos
Bologna

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Mykonos and Bologna.

Mykonos offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bologna. 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 Mykonos or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Bologna

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

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

For foodies, Bologna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Mykonos or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos 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 Mykonos just to party. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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 Mykonos or Bologna Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bologna is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Mykonos is a perfect choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Bologna is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Bologna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Bologna

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

Mykonos is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos 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 Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

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 Mykonos or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos is not a good place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Bologna?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos 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.

Mykonos is a world class destination for shoppers. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos or Bologna Better for Families?

Mykonos
Bologna

Bologna is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.


Is Mykonos or Bologna Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Mykonos has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

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 Mykonos or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Bologna

Bologna is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bologna is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Bologna Better for Students?

Mykonos
Bologna

Bologna is an unbeatable place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.


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

Mykonos
Bologna

Both Mykonos and Bologna offer good public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

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

Is Mykonos or Bologna a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Bologna

Mykonos 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 Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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 Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Bologna?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Mykonos or Bologna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Bologna 1-3

One day in Mykonos or Bologna?

In Mykonos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This Greek island 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 Mykonos or Bologna?

In Mykonos, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

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 Mykonos or Bologna?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mykonos has to offer. 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 Mykonos or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mykonos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bologna or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €149, while the average daily cost in Bologna is €159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Bologna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Bologna 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Bologna 174
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Bologna

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Bologna? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mykonos


Hotels in Bologna


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Bologna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Bologna 21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • TRANSFER FROM MYKONOS PORT(Cruise Terminal) TO MYKONOS TOWN: $8.56
  • 24-hour Point-Point Mykonos Airport and Port Transfers Service: $20
  • 24 Hour Private Transfer Service All Around Mykonos Island: $27
  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $31
  • Mykonos Island VIP Transfers: 24/7 Private Transportation: $33
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer (Mykonos Airport ToFrom Mykonos): $34
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos Airport(JMK) to Mykonos Cruise Port: $36
  • Transfer Service: $43
  • Private Mykonos Airport Transfer: $44
  • Private Transfer from Old Port of Mykonos to Mykonos Airport (JMK): $46
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos Airport (JMK) to Psarou Beach: $46
  • Delos Boat Transfer with Cell Phone Audioguide: $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bologna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bologna:

  • Marconi Airport Bus Transfer to/from Calenzano City: $21
  • Marconi Airport Bus Transfer to/from Florence City: $21
  • Bologna Airport: Private Transfer: $43
  • Bologna Airport transfer: $46
  • Ravenna Port to Ravenna Hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Bologna to Bologna Airport (BLQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Arrival Transfer Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City by Sedan: $56
  • Private Transfer from Bologna City Hotels to Ancona Cruise Port: $76
  • Bologna to Florence - Departure Private Transfer: $83
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $86
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Bologna - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Ravenna port to Ravenna hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Bologna?

Prices for flights to both Bologna and Mykonos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mykonos 48
    Bologna 39
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $70
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $100
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $160
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $196
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $254
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $284
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $610

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bologna

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bologna.

  • Virtual Cooking Class: Ravioli variations with classic tomato sauce: $35
  • Bologna Food Tour including Tagliatelle, Mortadella, Wine: $57
  • Bologna Traditional Home Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner: $73
  • Exclusive Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $74
  • Exclusive Bologna Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $75
  • Traditional Bolognese Cooking Class with a Meal: $80
  • Traditional Recipes Cooking Class with Local Wines: $82
  • Hands on Home Cooking Class: $84
  • Walking Food Tour with a Local Guide: $84
  • Tastes and Traditions Food Tour with Market Visit: $84
  • Tastes & Traditions of Food Tour with Market Visit: $86
  • Bologna traditional food tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Bologna 38

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • Old Town Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Mykonos Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Paddle Boat Experience: $16
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company : $30
  • Sunset Party Boat Cruise with 1 Drink: $32
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local: $37
  • Walking Tour as a Local: $38
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $38
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $42
  • Mykonos Old Town Walking Tour: $43
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $44
  • Super Paradise Beach: Wakeboarding Experience: $48

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bologna

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bologna are as follows:


  • Food Tour (for 2)
    31
  • Wine Tasting Tour (for 2)
    115
  • Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour (for 2)
    67
  • National Gallery Museum Bologna (for 2)
    12
  • Archaeology Museum of Bologna (for 2)
    12

Tours and Activities in Bologna

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bologna are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Bologna Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide: $4.36
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.81
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Porta Galliera to Le Tre Frecce: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Historical Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $7.49
  • Bologna's Ancient and Recent History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Ancient and Recent History Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Bologna 28

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $73
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $74
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $80
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $128
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $128
  • Luxurious All-in-One Mykonos Party Tour with Wine Tasting: $163

Sample the Local Flavors in Bologna

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bologna:

  • Modena area: Lambrusco Wine Tasting Experience: $38
  • From Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with the winemaker: $53
  • Monte San Pietro: Montevecchio Isolani Tour & Wine Tasting: $53
  • Bologna Food & Wine tour with a local Chef: $69
  • Wine Tasting Tour in One of the Oldest Inns: $70
  • Bologna Wine Tasting in One of the Oldest Inns: $71
  • Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour with Tasting in Dozza Village: $102
  • Taste the real Bologna Food and Wine tour: $107
  • Wine Tasting Experience with a Local Guide: $118
  • Exclusive Italian Wine Tasting: $131
  • Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Bologna with a local guide : $138
  • Italian Wine Tasting on the Panoramic Terrace in Bologna: $163


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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Bologna?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.