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

Should you visit The Hague 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 The Hague and Bologna can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a global, international, and bustling city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Bologna

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

The Hague and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in The Hague or Bologna?

You'll generally find more things to do in The Hague than Bologna. The Hague is bigger than Bologna, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. The Hague is better known for its music and big city activities, while Bologna is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bologna is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. Also, The Hague is famous for The Peace Palace.

How is The Hague different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Bologna?

The Hague
Bologna

Bologna is very good for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in The Hague or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

The Hague
Bologna

Bologna is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is The Hague or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Bologna

Both The Hague and Bologna have very good vibes after the sun sets.

The Hague has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

The people in Bologna know how to have a good time. 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 The Hague or Bologna Better for Music?

The Hague
Bologna

The Hague is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Bologna is not a live music destination.

The music scene in The Hague is very popular with diverse venues. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Bologna is not a live music destination.


Is The Hague or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

The Hague
Bologna

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Bologna?

The Hague
Bologna

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both The Hague and Bologna.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

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 The Hague or Bologna Better for Families?

The Hague
Bologna

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

The Hague is a family-friendly city. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

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.


Is The Hague or Bologna Better for Couples?

The Hague
Bologna

Both The Hague and Bologna are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Bologna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 The Hague or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Bologna

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is The Hague or Bologna Better for Students?

The Hague
Bologna

Both The Hague and Bologna are fantastic destinations for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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.


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

The Hague
Bologna

The Hague 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 The Hague. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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

Is The Hague or Bologna a more walkable city?

The Hague
Bologna

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hague and Bologna. In our opinion, Bologna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bologna than The Hague. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bologna than The Hague 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.


  • How many days in The Hague or Bologna? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Bologna 1-3

One day in The Hague or Bologna?

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 The Hague or Bologna?

Because The Hague 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hague has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical 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 The Hague or Bologna?

The Hague is a great place to explore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful 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 The Hague or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting The Hague. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bologna or The Hague?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Bologna is €159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for The Hague and Bologna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Bologna 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Bologna 174
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Bologna

Looking for a hotel in The Hague or Bologna? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in The Hague


Hotels in Bologna


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: The Hague Hotel Prices and Bologna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Bologna 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bologna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bologna:

  • Tour Ferrari, Lambo, Parmesan, Vinegar, Wine with Transfer: $503
  • Siena: Private Round-Trip Transfer from/to Bologna Airport: $690
  • Ravenna/Cruise Port to Torcello (water taxi) - Arrival Transfer: $178
  • Ravenna port to Ravenna hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice,Piazzale Roma Roundtrip Transfer: $240
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice + water taxi - Arrival Transfer: $159
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Murano + water taxi -RoundTrip Transfer: $300
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Burano + water taxi - Arrival Transfer: $163
  • Ravenna city or Cruise Port to Bologna Airport(BLQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $113
  • Ravenna Port to Ravenna Hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Ravenna Cruise Port to Venice + water taxi- Round Trip Transfer: $290
  • Ravenna Cruise Port to Rome Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $288

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Bologna?

Prices for flights to both Bologna and The Hague change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    The Hague 55
    Bologna 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bologna

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bologna.

  • Virtual Cooking Class: Ravioli variations with classic tomato sauce: $35
  • Bologna Food Tour including Tagliatelle, Mortadella, Wine: $57
  • Bologna Traditional Home Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner: $73
  • Exclusive Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $74
  • Exclusive Bologna Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $75
  • Traditional Bolognese Cooking Class with a Meal: $80
  • Traditional Recipes Cooking Class with Local Wines: $82
  • Hands on Home Cooking Class: $84
  • Walking Food Tour with a Local Guide: $84
  • Tastes and Traditions Food Tour with Market Visit: $84
  • Tastes & Traditions of Food Tour with Market Visit: $86
  • Bologna traditional food tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hague 34
    Bologna 38

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.56
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Escher in The Palace Museum Ticket: $12

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bologna

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bologna are as follows:


  • Food Tour (for 2)
    31
  • Wine Tasting Tour (for 2)
    115
  • Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour (for 2)
    67
  • National Gallery Museum Bologna (for 2)
    12
  • Archaeology Museum of Bologna (for 2)
    12

Tours and Activities in Bologna

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bologna are as follows:

  • the red medieval pearl and its delicious food (private tour): $284
  • 2 Hours Bologna Guided Private Tour for Kids and Families : $179
  • 2-Hour Bike Tour to Discover Bologna's Squares and Monuments: $147
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour Discovering the "Musical" Side of Bologna: $71
  • 2.5-hour Bologna City and University Walking Tour: $131
  • 3 hours walking tour with tastings: Bologna "La Grassa": $185
  • Art and taste tour: from Magnani Rocca to Parma ham: $210
  • BOLOGNA FOOD WALKING TOUR (morning or evening PRIVATE tour): $207
  • Best of Private & Personalised Walking Experience: $81
  • Best walking tour of Bologna: $158
  • Bike Tour Bologna: $142
  • Bologna - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $374

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hague 30
    Bologna 28

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Bologna

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bologna:

  • Modena area: Lambrusco Wine Tasting Experience: $38
  • From Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with the winemaker: $53
  • Monte San Pietro: Montevecchio Isolani Tour & Wine Tasting: $53
  • Bologna Food & Wine tour with a local Chef: $69
  • Wine Tasting Tour in One of the Oldest Inns: $70
  • Bologna Wine Tasting in One of the Oldest Inns: $71
  • Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour with Tasting in Dozza Village: $102
  • Taste the real Bologna Food and Wine tour: $107
  • Wine Tasting Experience with a Local Guide: $118
  • Exclusive Italian Wine Tasting: $131
  • Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Bologna with a local guide : $138
  • Italian Wine Tasting on the Panoramic Terrace in Bologna: $163


When comparing the travel costs between The Hague and Bologna, we can see that The Hague 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 The Hague Expensive? and Is Bologna Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Bologna?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Bologna. When comparing the sizes of The Hague 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Bologna. The summer months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In July, The Hague is generally cooler than Bologna. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 17°C (62°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bologna. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in The Hague this time of the year. In the summer, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Bologna. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Bologna 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

The Hague is much colder than Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bologna. In October, The Hague usually receives less rain than Bologna. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Bologna 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and The Hague during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 The Hague. In the winter, The Hague is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hague in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Bologna. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets less rain in January than Bologna. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Bologna 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Bologna. Many visitors come to The Hague in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bologna for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, The Hague is generally much colder than Bologna. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 8°C (46°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, The Hague usually receives less rain than Bologna. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Bologna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bologna and The Hague

The Hague Bologna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (47°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 24°C (75°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)