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

Should you visit Salzburg or Bologna?

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

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bologna

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

Salzburg and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Bologna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Salzburg is very popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bologna attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Salzburg is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also well known for The Salzburg Old Town. Bologna is famous for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg 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 Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bologna is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Salzburg or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Bologna offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Salzburg or Bologna Better for Music?

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

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is revered around the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

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 Salzburg or Bologna?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg or Bologna Better for Families?

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Bologna Better for Couples?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Bologna are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg or Bologna Better for Students?

Salzburg and Bologna are both terrific destinations for students and younger travelers.

Salzburg is a great destination for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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.

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

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Salzburg or Bologna a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Bologna both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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 Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

One day in Salzburg or Bologna?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

The beautiful city of Bologna offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Salzburg or Bologna?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Salzburg or Bologna?

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

Bologna is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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.

Bologna is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Salzburg 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 Salzburg Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bologna because of the family-friendly experiences.

Salzburg is cooler than Bologna in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bologna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Bologna. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music 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.

In the autumn, Salzburg is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bologna averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Salzburg gets 108 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. Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Bologna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg 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 Salzburg in the winter. In January, Salzburg is generally much colder than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around -0°C (31°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Bologna. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the spring for the natural beauty.

Salzburg is cooler than Bologna in the spring. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Salzburg