A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Bonn for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Amsterdam or Bonn?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Bonn, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a scenic, historic, and canal-lined city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bonn

Bonn is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and lively city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its food and quaint atmosphere. Amsterdam is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Amsterdam different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Bonn.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bonn. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bonn is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bonn. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for live music. However, Bonn is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is known as a music capital around the world. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Bonn is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Bonn both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Bonn is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bonn and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bonn. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores around town.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great city for romance. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Amsterdam is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Bonn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Bonn is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Students?

Bonn is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Bonn is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Amsterdam has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

The public transit in Bonn can get you around easily. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.

Is Amsterdam or Bonn a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its walkability. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Amsterdam is a very easy city to get around on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Bonn is a very walkable city. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Bonn. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Bonn 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bonn. 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 Amsterdam or Bonn?

Amsterdam is a scenic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively city of Bonn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Bonn?

Amsterdam is a canal-lined city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bonn 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Bonn?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Bonn, 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 Amsterdam or Bonn?

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 Amsterdam or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bonn. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Bonn. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bonn because of the shopping scene.

Amsterdam is cooler than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Bonn. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Bonn. The winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bonn in the winter. The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In the winter, Amsterdam is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in January than Bonn. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

In April, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Bonn. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Amsterdam