A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Bologna for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna are both popular with visitors, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its museums and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also home to The Archeological Museum. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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).

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is a great destination for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Bologna is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Bologna offers lots of family activities. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is very popular for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

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


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Bologna

Bologna is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

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

Families should spend more time in Bologna than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Bologna 1-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

In Thiva (Thebes), you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

In Bologna, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

In Thiva (Thebes), you'll find food and shopping. 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 Thiva (Thebes) has to offer.

Bologna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Bologna. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Bologna or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Bologna 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Bologna 174
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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: Bologna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Bologna 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bologna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bologna:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Bologna Airport BLQ to Modena or Verona by Business Van: $162
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City in Business Car: $121
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City in Luxury Van: $135
  • Arrival Transfer Bologna Airport BLQ to Bologna City by Sedan: $56
  • Arrival Transfer from Ravenna/Cruise Port to Venice Piazzale Roma: $120
  • Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Private Transfer: $163
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Bologna - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Florence - Arrival Private Transfer: $86
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Florence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $172
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Ravenna city or Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $113
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Venice - Arrival Private Transfer: $117
  • Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Venice - Arrival Private Transfer: $100

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

Prices for flights to both Bologna and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Bologna 39

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.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Bologna 38

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:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Bologna Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide: $4.36
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.81
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Porta Galliera to Le Tre Frecce: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Historical Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Bologna Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $7.49
  • Bologna's Ancient and Recent History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Ancient and Recent History Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Bologna 28

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. And not only is Thiva (Thebes) much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Thiva (Thebes) would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes).

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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Bologna. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°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 Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Bologna 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna in the Autumn?

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

In October, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Bologna. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 19°C (67°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Bologna 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) 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. Thiva (Thebes) is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Bologna 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Bologna in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Bologna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bologna and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Bologna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (47°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)