A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Bonn for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bali or Bonn?

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 Bali and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a tropical, lush, and frequented island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Bonn

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

Bali and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bali than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bali is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Bali is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also well known for Pura Lempuyang. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Bali different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Bonn specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Bali is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Bali is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

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.

Is Bali or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

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

Bali is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

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 Bali or Bonn Better for Resorts?

Bali is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Bonn is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Bali is a great choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Bonn is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Bonn Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Bali is very popular for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Bali. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a well-known place for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bonn. 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.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Bali is a great island for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bali for the hiking trails. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Bonn?

Both Bali and Bonn are great shopping destinations.

Bali is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

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 Bali or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Bonn is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bali. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Is Bali or Bonn Better for Couples?

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

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

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 Bali or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali 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 Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

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 Bali or Bonn Better for Students?

Bonn is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Bonn is very popular with students. 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.

Bali is not popular with students.

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

Bonn is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bonn can get you to some places 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.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Bonn a more walkable city?

Bonn is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

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

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Bali?

How long in Bali or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bali and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than in Bonn. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali 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 Bali.

One day in Bali or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Bali. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Bonn?

Bali is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bonn 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.

Five days in Bali or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the spiritual destination of Bali. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bonn. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Bali or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical island of Bali. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

The cultural city of Bonn offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Bonn, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bali is in Asia and Bonn is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Bonn would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bonn than you might in Bali.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Bonn?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Bali 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 Bali or Bonn?

Bonn has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Bonn. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bali is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

Bali is much warmer than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bali usually receives more rain than Bonn. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Bali during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bonn. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Bonn. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Bonn. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bali usually receives more rain than Bonn. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Bali