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

Should you visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a expensive, beautiful, and clean 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bologna

Bologna is a beautiful, fun, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stockholm and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Bologna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm than Bologna, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Stockholm is more popular for its museums, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bologna is known for its food. Stockholm is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town). Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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 Stockholm or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Stockholm and Bologna.

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Many people head to Bologna for the nightlife scene. 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 Stockholm or Bologna Better for Music?

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

In Stockholm you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Bologna is not a live music destination.

Is Stockholm or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is revered around the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm or Bologna?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bologna and Stockholm.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm or Bologna Better for Families?

Stockholm is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is one of the most popular family destinations. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm or Bologna Better for Couples?

Stockholm 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, Stockholm has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm can get you around easily. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Stockholm or Bologna a more walkable city?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Bologna?

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

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

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

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

Because Stockholm 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. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bologna. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Bologna?

Because Stockholm 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. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the culinary destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Bologna?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun city of Bologna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Bologna?

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

Bologna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Bologna?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Bologna. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Stockholm is cooler than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stockholm in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Bologna averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bologna this time of the year. In Stockholm, it's very sunny this time of the year. Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives more rain than Bologna. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Bologna. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bologna because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stockholm is generally much colder than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 8°C (46°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the museums, 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. The weather in Stockholm can be very cold. Stockholm is much colder than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Bologna. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Stockholm during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Stockholm this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Stockholm is much colder than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stockholm in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Stockholm