A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Varenna vs. Bologna for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Varenna or Bologna?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Varenna and Bologna. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Varenna

Varenna is a pristine, beautiful, and scenic village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Bologna

Bologna is a culinary, beautiful, and fun city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Varenna and Bologna: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Varenna or Bologna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bologna. Although Varenna and Bologna are both popular with visitors, Bologna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bologna is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Varenna is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta. It is also home to Piazza Maggiore.

How is Varenna different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna
Bologna

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Varenna and Bologna.

Varenna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bologna. 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 Varenna or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna
Bologna

Foodies will find both Varenna and Bologna both to be first-rate destinations.

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

For foodies, Bologna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Is Varenna or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Varenna
Bologna

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Bologna has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Varenna or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Varenna
Bologna

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Varenna does not have a historic old town.


Is Varenna or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Varenna
Bologna

Varenna is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Bologna?

Varenna
Bologna

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Bologna is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Varenna or Bologna Better for Families?

Varenna
Bologna

Both Varenna and Bologna are good family-friendly destinations.

Varenna is a family-friendly village. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

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 Varenna or Bologna Better for Couples?

Varenna
Bologna

Varenna 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, Varenna has plenty to offer. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Varenna
Bologna

Bologna is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Bologna. 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 budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Varenna or Bologna Better for Students?

Varenna
Bologna

Bologna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Bologna is a very popular place to visit 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.

Varenna is not popular with students.


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

Varenna
Bologna

Visitors will find good public transit in both Varenna and Bologna.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

You'll find some public transit in Bologna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

Is Varenna or Bologna a more walkable city?

Varenna
Bologna

Varenna 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 Varenna on foot. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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 Varenna Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Bologna?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bologna than Varenna 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 Varenna or Bologna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Varenna 1-2 
    Bologna 1-3

One day in Varenna or Bologna?

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This village 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 nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.


A weekend in Varenna or Bologna?

In Varenna, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna has to offer.

In Bologna, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bologna has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Bologna?

Varenna is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 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.

A week in Varenna or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Varenna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bologna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Bologna or Varenna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Varenna is €164, 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 Varenna and Bologna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varenna 86
    Bologna 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varenna 172
    Bologna 174
Compare Hotels in Varenna and Bologna

Looking for a hotel in Varenna 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 Varenna


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: Varenna Hotel Prices and Bologna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Bologna 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varenna

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

  • Varenna : Private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $365

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bologna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bologna:

  • Venice Piazzale Roma to Ravenna or Cruise Port Departure Transfer: $122
  • Tour Ferrari, Lambo, Parmesan, Vinegar, Wine+Lunch&Transfer: $479
  • Siena: Private Round-Trip Transfer from/to Bologna Airport: $702
  • Ravenna/Cruise Port to Torcello (water taxi) - Arrival Transfer: $181
  • Ravenna port to Ravenna hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice,Piazzale Roma Roundtrip Transfer: $244
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Venice + water taxi - Arrival Transfer: $162
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Murano + water taxi - Arrival Transfer: $153
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Lido + water taxi - Arrival Transfer: $153
  • Ravenna or Cruise Port to Burano + water taxi - Arrival Transfer: $166
  • Ravenna city or Cruise Port to Venice, piazzale Roma - Arrival Private Transfer: $111
  • Ravenna city or Cruise Port to Bologna Airport(BLQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Varenna or Bologna?

Prices for flights to both Bologna and Varenna 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
    Varenna 53
    Bologna 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Varenna

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

  • Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $158

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bologna

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

  • Exclusive Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $11
  • Exclusive Bologna Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $11
  • Virtual Cooking Class: Ravioli variations with classic tomato sauce: $36
  • Cooking Lesson at Casa della Zdora for Small Groups: $50
  • Bologna Private Food Tour Eating around the Centre: $67
  • Bologna Traditional Home Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner: $74
  • Bologna Food Tour including Tagliatelle, Mortadella, Wine: $75
  • Traditional Recipes Cooking Class with Local Wines: $84
  • Walking Food Tour with a Local Guide: $86
  • Tastes and Traditions Food Tour with Market Visit: $86
  • Hands on Home Cooking Class: $86
  • Tastes & Traditions of Food Tour with Market Visit: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Bologna 38

Tours and Activities in Varenna

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

  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $93
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $120
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $152
  • Private Boat Tour - Lake Como Bellagio: $500
  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $676
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,579

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): $289
  • 2 Hours Bologna Guided Private Tour for Kids and Families : $182
  • 2-Hour Bike Tour to Discover Bologna's Squares and Monuments: $150
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour Discovering the "Musical" Side of Bologna: $72
  • 2.5-hour Bologna City and University Walking Tour: $139
  • 3 Hour Private Bologna Gastronomic Tour with Local Guide: $211
  • 3 hours walking tour with tastings: Bologna "La Grassa": $189
  • Art and taste tour: from Magnani Rocca to Parma ham: $213
  • Best of Private & Personalised Walking Experience: $83
  • Best walking tour of Bologna: $161
  • Bike Tour Bologna: $144
  • Bologna - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $381

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Varenna 23
    Bologna 28

Sample the Local Flavors in Varenna

Also in Varenna, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio: $101
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Bologna

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

  • Wine Tasting: $20
  • In Imola, visit to the winery with wine tasting at Tre Monti: $22
  • Modena area: Lambrusco Wine Tasting Experience: $39
  • In Bologna wine tasting and visit to the Palazzona di Maggio Estate: $50
  • From Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with the winemaker: $54
  • Bologna Food & Wine tour with a local Chef: $70
  • Wine Tasting Tour in One of the Oldest Inns: $71
  • Bologna Wine Tasting in One of the Oldest Inns: $72
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting with an Expert Guide and Sommelier: $74
  • Wine Tasting Experience with a Local Guide: $102
  • Small-Group Half-Day Wine Tour with Tasting in Dozza Village: $104
  • Taste the real Bologna Food and Wine tour: $109


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


Which is Bigger, Varenna or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 440 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna 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 Varenna 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 Varenna or Bologna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Bologna. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Varenna is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the summer temperatures in Varenna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Bologna averages at about 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 Varenna this time of the year. In the summer, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the summer. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Bologna. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Varenna 23°C (73°F) 
    Bologna 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 15°C (58°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during autumn. Varenna gets 152 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. It's quite rainy in Varenna. In October, Varenna usually receives more rain than Bologna. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Varenna 15°C (58°F) 
    Bologna 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Bologna in the Winter?

Both Bologna and Varenna during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bologna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bologna can be very cold. Varenna can be very cold during winter. Varenna is much warmer than Bologna in the winter. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Bologna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Varenna often gets more sunshine than Bologna. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun.

Varenna usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bologna. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Varenna 5°C (41°F) 
    Bologna 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Bologna. The spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In the spring, Varenna is around the same temperature as Bologna. Typically, the spring temperatures in Varenna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Bologna averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during spring. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Varenna usually receives more rain than Bologna. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Varenna 13°C (55°F) 
    Bologna 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bologna and Varenna

Varenna Bologna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 19°C (67°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)