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

Should you visit Prague 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 Prague 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.

Prague

Prague is a festive, fun-filled, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, 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.

Prague and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Prague or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Prague than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Prague is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bologna is known for its food. Prague is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also home to The Prague Castle. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Prague different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Prague 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 Prague on the map. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

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 Prague or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

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).

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Prague or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Prague 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 Prague just to party. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

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 Prague or Bologna Better for Music?

Prague is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Bologna is not a live music destination.

In Prague you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Prague or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Prague 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 Prague is revered around the world. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

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 Prague or Bologna?

Both Prague and Bologna are high quality shopping destinations.

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

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 Prague or Bologna Better for Families?

Prague 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.

Prague is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Bologna is a family-friendly city. 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 Prague or Bologna Better for Couples?

Prague 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, Prague has plenty to offer. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

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 Prague or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Prague is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

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 Prague or Bologna Better for Students?

Prague and Bologna are both first-rate destinations for students and younger travelers.

Prague is a very popular place to visit for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

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

Prague is a world-class destination 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.

With a huge network, the transit system in Prague can get you around easily. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

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

Is Prague or Bologna a more walkable city?

Prague 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 Prague on foot. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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 Prague Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Prague?

How long in Prague or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Prague and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Prague than in Bologna. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Prague, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

One day in Prague or Bologna?

Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 Prague or Bologna?

Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Prague has to offer.

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 Prague or Bologna?

Prague is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Prague 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 Prague or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Prague. Because Prague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful 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 Budget Tours to Czech Republic, The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Prague or Bologna?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of Prague 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 Prague 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 Prague or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Prague are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Prague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Prague is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Prague in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bologna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Prague. Prague usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Prague gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Prague usually receives more rain than Bologna. Prague gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Prague or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Prague during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Prague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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 October, Prague is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Prague average around 11°C (52°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Prague often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Prague gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Prague usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Prague gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Prague or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Prague and Bologna. Most visitors come to Prague 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. Prague can be very cold during winter. Prague is much colder than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Prague averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Prague usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Prague gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Prague usually receives less rain than Bologna. Prague gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Prague or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Prague as well as Bologna. The spring months attract visitors to Prague because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the spring, Prague is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Prague in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Prague often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Prague gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Prague usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Prague gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Prague