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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a high energy, livable, and cultural port city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a culinary, beautiful, and fun city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

Both Bologna and Newcastle upon Tyne have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular for its museums, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Bologna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a great culinary experience. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Bologna is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bologna. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bologna than Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne has to offer.

Many people visit Bologna for a weekend. Lots of people come for the food. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bologna, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

The beautiful destination of Bologna offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Bologna. The summer months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bologna. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bologna. It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bologna. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Newcastle upon Tyne during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bologna can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Bologna. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bologna. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the natural beauty during these months.

Newcastle upon Tyne is much colder than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 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 Newcastle upon Tyne