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

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

Zermatt

Zermatt is a breathtaking, charming, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Bologna

Bologna is a historical, culinary, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Bologna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Bologna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bologna is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights. Zermatt is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Bologna Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Bologna is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Bologna is not a skiing destination.

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

Bologna is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

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

Bologna is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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).

Zermatt has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

Is Zermatt or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Bologna are very good when it comes to partying.

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

Bologna has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Zermatt or Bologna Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bologna is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zermatt. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Bologna is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt 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).

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Bologna Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Bologna?

Both Zermatt and Bologna are very good shopping destinations.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

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.

Is Zermatt or Bologna Better for Families?

Zermatt is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Zermatt is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Bologna is a family-friendly town. 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 Zermatt or Bologna Better for Couples?

Zermatt 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, Zermatt has plenty to offer. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

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 Zermatt or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zermatt and Bologna are very good destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

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.

Is Zermatt or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is very popular for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with 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.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Both Zermatt and Bologna offer notable public transit options.

Zermatt has a few public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

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

Is Zermatt or Bologna a more walkable city?

Zermatt 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 Zermatt on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

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 Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Bologna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Bologna?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Bologna. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Bologna. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bologna.

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

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

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

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Zermatt or Bologna?

In Zermatt, you'll find nightlife and food. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt 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 Zermatt or Bologna?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. 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 Zermatt or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Bologna, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Bologna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bologna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bologna 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 Zermatt would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zermatt than you might in Bologna.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt 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 Zermatt 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 Zermatt or Bologna in the Summer?

Both Bologna and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bologna this time of year.

In July, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Bologna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually receives less sunshine than Bologna during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Bologna. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Zermatt during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Zermatt is around the same temperature as Bologna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Bologna fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Bologna. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Bologna. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, 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 Zermatt. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Bologna during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bologna. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bologna for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Zermatt is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets less sunshine than Bologna. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the spring. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Bologna. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Zermatt