A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bonn vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Families, Attractions, and Couples

Should you visit Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Aix-en-Provence? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

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.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Bonn and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bonn than Aix-en-Provence. Bonn is bigger than Aix-en-Provence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bonn is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Also, Bonn is famous for The Bonn Minster. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Bonn different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Bonn is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bonn can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


Is the Food Better in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence 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, Aix-en-Provence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

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 Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Bonn is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Bonn has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Bonn is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bonn to see the historical old town. 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.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for shopping. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Aix-en-Provence. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Bonn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Bonn is terrific for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence 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, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a great town for romance. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Aix-en-Provence is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

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 Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

For backpackers, both Bonn and Aix-en-Provence are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bonn. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

For students, both Bonn and Aix-en-Provence are very good places to visit.

Bonn is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Bonn or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Bonn is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Bonn can get you to most 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.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.


Is Bonn or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Bonn
Aix-en-Provence

Bonn and Aix-en-Provence are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable city. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bonn Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Bonn or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Aix-en-Provence 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 Bonn.


  • How many days in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

The outdoorsy destination of Bonn offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Bonn offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Aix-en-Provence is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

Bonn is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the laid-back destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historic town of Aix-en-Provence offers museums and food. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Bonn?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is €154, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is €138. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bonn and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Aix-en-Provence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bonn


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bonn Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bonn

Also for Bonn, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bonn hotels Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Bonn change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bonn 49
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Bonn

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bonn.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $11
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $11
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $20

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Aix-en-Provence 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


When comparing the travel costs between Bonn and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Bonn 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 Bonn Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Aix-en-Provence?

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

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 Bonn or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bonn is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Bonn during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bonn can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bonn is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Aix-en-Provence. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Aix-en-Provence. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In April, Bonn is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Bonn

Bonn Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)