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

Should you visit Paphos or Bologna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Bologna, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Paphos

Paphos is a overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Bologna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Bologna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bologna is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights. Paphos is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Paphos different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Paphos on the map. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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 Paphos or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Paphos and Bologna.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

Many restaurants in Bologna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Paphos or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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 Paphos has a few options to choose from. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Is Paphos or Bologna Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Bologna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos 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 Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Bologna Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

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).

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Paphos. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Paphos.

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Bologna is well-known for its shopping. 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 Paphos or Bologna Better for Families?

Paphos is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paphos is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

Bologna is a family-friendly town. 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 Paphos or Bologna Better for Couples?

Paphos 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, Paphos has plenty to offer. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

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 Paphos or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Bologna are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Many 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.

Is Paphos or Bologna Better for Students?

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

Bologna is a great destination 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos 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 Paphos. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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

Is Paphos or Bologna a more walkable city?

Bologna is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Bologna is very walkable. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Bologna?

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

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

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

One day in Paphos or Bologna?

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Bologna?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Bologna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paphos or Bologna?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Paphos or Bologna?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Bologna. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Bologna?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Bologna. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Bologna. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Bologna. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

Paphos is a little warmer than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bologna. In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives less rain than Bologna. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Paphos