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

Should you visit Nice 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 Nice 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.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

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.

Nice and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nice. Although Nice and Bologna are both popular with visitors, Nice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nice is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bologna is known for its museums. Nice is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. It is also home to The Promenade des Anglais. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Nice different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bologna is a city with good options for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Nice or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Nice and Bologna.

Many restaurants in Nice have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Nice 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 Nice just to party. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice or Bologna Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Nice is a perfect choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Bologna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Bologna Better for Beaches?

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

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Both Nice and Bologna have superb historic old towns worth visiting.

Nice is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Bologna?

Both Nice and Bologna are superb shopping destinations.

Nice is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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 Nice or Bologna Better for Families?

Both Nice and Bologna are good to visit with kids.

Nice is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Bologna is a family-friendly seaside destination. 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 Nice or Bologna Better for Couples?

Nice 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, Nice has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds 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 Nice or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Nice or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is renowned for students. However, Nice is not popular with students.

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.

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Nice 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 Nice. There are both buses and trams.

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

Is Nice or Bologna a more walkable city?

Nice 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 Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Nice?

How long in Nice or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

In Nice, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside destination offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bologna. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Nice or Bologna?

In Nice, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Bologna?

Nice 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 Nice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Bologna. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Nice or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nice. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Nice. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The culinary city of Bologna offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Nice and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. And not only is Nice much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nice would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nice 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 Nice.

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

Which is Bigger, Nice or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice 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 Nice 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 Nice or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nice is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nice in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In July, Nice usually receives less rain than Bologna. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nice or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Nice during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nice is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 17°C (63°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nice. Nice usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Bologna. The winter months attract visitors to Nice because of 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. Nice is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In January, Nice usually receives more rain than Bologna. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nice or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nice as well as Bologna. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nice is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nice in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Nice usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Nice gets 62 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 Nice