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

Should you visit Strasbourg or Bologna?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Strasbourg and Bologna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a fun, historical, and culinary city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Strasbourg or Bologna?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Strasbourg than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Strasbourg, Strasbourg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Strasbourg is better known for its museums and historical sights, while Bologna is more popular for its food and nightlife. Strasbourg is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. Also, Strasbourg is famous for The Strasbourg Cathedral. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Strasbourg different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Strasbourg or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bologna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Strasbourg or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is a great city for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Bologna has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Strasbourg or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 Strasbourg or Bologna?

If you're looking to go shopping, Strasbourg and Bologna both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Bologna is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Strasbourg or Bologna Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Strasbourg or Bologna.

Strasbourg offers lots of family activities. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Bologna is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Strasbourg or Bologna Better for Couples?

Strasbourg is a well-known place for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Strasbourg or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Strasbourg or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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

Is Strasbourg or Bologna a more walkable city?

Strasbourg and Bologna are very good when it comes to walkability.

Strasbourg is very walkable. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Strasbourg and Bologna. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Strasbourg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

In Strasbourg, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the fun city of Bologna, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bologna, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Bologna?

In Strasbourg, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Strasbourg has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bologna, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Strasbourg or Bologna?

Strasbourg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bologna, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg or Bologna?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Strasbourg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In July, Strasbourg is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 20°C (68°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Bologna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Strasbourg. In the summer, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Bologna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Bologna. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Strasbourg is cooler than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bologna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Bologna. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Strasbourg as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bologna can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Strasbourg. In the winter, Strasbourg is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Strasbourg in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Bologna in the Spring?

Both Bologna and Strasbourg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Strasbourg is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 11°C (51°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Bologna. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Strasbourg