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

Should you visit Reims or Bologna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Reims 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.

Reims

Reims is a relaxing, scenic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Reims or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bologna than Reims. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Reims is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. It is also well known for Piazza Maggiore.

How is Reims different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Reims or Bologna.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Reims. Sights around town include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Rémi, and Musée des Beaux-Arts.

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 Reims or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Reims and Bologna offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Reims is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. While its famous for its Champagne, the city also has Michelin starred restaurants, local produce, and an amazing regional cuisine. The region is known for its ham, cheese, mustard, and truffles.

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 Reims or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Reims has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is relaxing but active. Most locals hang out with friends at local bars near Place Drouet d'Erlon or the Rue Chanzy area. Bars have a combination of local beers and Champagne.

Is Reims or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic 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).

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Reims or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Reims.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Reims. You'll find not only Champagne, but also jewellry, designer fashion, and chocolate. The best shopping is located around the Place Drouet d'Erlon which is a pedestrian area. Also check out the shopping streets of Rue de Vesle and Cours Langlet.

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 Reims or Bologna Better for Families?

Bologna is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Reims is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the historical city center or visiting the Palace of Tau. For a unique activity, view the region from above with a hot air balloon ride.

Is Reims or Bologna Better for Couples?

Reims 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, Reims has plenty to offer. This romantic area is perfect for couples who enjoy wine and history. There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Visiting the Champagne Houses is a must for any couple visiting the area.

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 Reims or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bologna is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Reims is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Is Reims or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is very popular for students. However, Reims 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.

Reims is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Reims and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Reims, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

While Bologna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Reims or Bologna a more walkable city?

Reims and Bologna both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Reims is a very walkable destination. You can explore the city on foot and reach many local Champagne Houses. If you really want to explore everything in depth, you'll need a car.

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 Reims Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Reims?

How long in Reims or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Reims and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Reims than in Bologna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Reims, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

In Reims, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This 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 shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Reims or Bologna?

In Reims, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Reims has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Reims or Bologna?

Reims is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reims has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bologna. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Reims or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reims. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Reims. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the culinary destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-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 Reims and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. And not only is Reims much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Reims would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Reims 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 Reims.

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

Which is Bigger, Reims or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 89% larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Reims 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 Reims 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 Reims or Bologna in the Summer?

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

Reims is cooler than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Reims, it's very sunny this time of the year. Reims usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Reims gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Reims usually receives more rain than Bologna. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Reims or Bologna in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Reims is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Reims in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Reims often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Reims gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Reims usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Reims gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Reims or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Reims 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 Reims 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. It's quite cold in Reims in the winter. In January, Reims is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Reims average around 3°C (37°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Reims usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Reims gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Reims usually receives less rain than Bologna. Reims gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Reims or Bologna in the Spring?

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

Reims is cooler than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Reims averages around 9°C (49°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Reims often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Reims gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Reims usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Reims gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Reims