A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Siena vs. Bologna for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

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

Siena

Siena is a romantic, charming, and medieval city. You'll find world class beauty in Siena as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Siena travel costs.

Bologna

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

Siena and Bologna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Siena or Bologna?

Both Bologna and Siena have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Siena is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Bologna is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Siena is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Bologna is well known for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Siena different from Bologna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Siena 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 Siena specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Siena or Bologna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city 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).

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Siena or Bologna Better for Nightlife?

Bologna is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Bologna has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Siena or Bologna Better for its Old Town?

Siena is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Siena is revered around the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Many visitors go to Bologna to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Is the Shopping Better in Siena or Bologna?

Bologna is notable for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Bologna is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Siena or Bologna More Beautiful?

Siena is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Siena as well. It's considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. There's a central plaza with neighborhoods spreading out from there. The buildings are made of a distinct medieval brick and the atmosphere is enjoyable.

Bologna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's history and architecture make it among the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Is Siena or Bologna Better for Families?

Bologna is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Bologna is a family-friendly place to visit. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Siena or Bologna Better for Couples?

Siena 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, Siena has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena or Bologna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bologna is notable for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Siena or Bologna Better for Students?

Bologna is very popular for students. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Both Siena and Bologna offer notable public transit options.

Siena has a few public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

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

Is Siena or Bologna a more walkable city?

Siena and Bologna both are very good when exploring on foot.

Siena is very walkable. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bologna or Siena?

How long in Siena or Bologna?

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

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

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

In Siena, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Siena or Bologna?

In Siena, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Siena has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Siena or Bologna?

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

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bologna. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Siena or Bologna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Siena. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Siena. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the culinary destination of Bologna. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Siena and Bologna, we can see that Bologna is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Siena or Bologna?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Siena 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 Siena 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 Siena or Bologna in the Summer?

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

In July, Siena is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Siena 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 Siena. Siena usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during summer. Siena gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Siena usually receives more rain than Bologna. Siena gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Siena or Bologna in the Autumn?

Both Bologna and Siena during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Siena this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Siena often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Siena gets 177 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. Siena usually gets less rain in October than Bologna. Siena gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Siena or Bologna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Siena and Bologna. Many travelers come to Siena for the museums, 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. In the winter, Siena is much warmer than Bologna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Siena in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Bologna averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Siena usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna during winter. Siena gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bologna receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Siena usually receives less rain than Bologna. Siena gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Siena or Bologna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Siena as well as Bologna. Many visitors come to Siena in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Bologna for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Siena is generally around the same temperature as Bologna. Daily temperatures in Siena average around 12°C (54°F), and Bologna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Siena often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bologna. Siena gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bologna receives 192 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets less rain in April than Bologna. Siena gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bologna receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bologna and Siena