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

Should you visit Beijing or Bonn?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Bonn can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a jam-packed, cultural, and fascinating city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

Bonn is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and lively city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Beijing and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Bonn?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Bonn. Beijing is bigger than Bonn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Beijing is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Beijing different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Beijing from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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.

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

Beijing 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, Beijing is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 Beijing or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Bonn?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bonn and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Beijing or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bonn is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Bonn Better for Couples?

Both Beijing and Bonn are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Beijing is a good city for couples to visit. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. 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 Beijing or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

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 Beijing or Bonn Better for Students?

Beijing and Bonn are excellent places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Many students visit Bonn. 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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Bonn.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bonn. 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 Beijing or Bonn a more walkable city?

Bonn is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Bonn?

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

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

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

One day in Beijing or Bonn?

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

In Bonn, 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.

A weekend in Beijing or Bonn?

Beijing is a fun place to experience. 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.

In Bonn, 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 Bonn has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Bonn?

Beijing is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bonn 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 Beijing or Bonn?

Beijing is a fascinating city where you can fill many days. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, 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 Beijing and Bonn, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing 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 Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Bonn?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing 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 Beijing or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beijing is a little warmer than Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Bonn. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Bonn. Many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Beijing is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Bonn. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bonn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bonn can be very cold. Beijing can be very cold during winter. Beijing is much colder than Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Bonn. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Beijing is a little warmer than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Bonn. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Beijing