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

Should you visit Bonn or Anchorage?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Anchorage? 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 lively, cultural, and beautiful city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a outdoorsy, scenic, and breathtaking city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Bonn and Anchorage: 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
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bonn or Anchorage?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bonn than Anchorage, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bonn is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Anchorage is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. It is also home to The Bonn Minster.

How is Bonn different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Anchorage 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 Anchorage?

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Bonn
Anchorage

Both Bonn and Anchorage offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Anchorage. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Bonn or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Bonn or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Anchorage 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.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.


Is Bonn or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Bonn
Anchorage

Anchorage is very popular for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

People visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Anchorage?

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Bonn is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Bonn or Anchorage Better for Families?

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.


Is Bonn or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Bonn
Anchorage

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

Anchorage is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

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 Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Anchorage

For backpackers, both Bonn and Anchorage are good 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.

Anchorage is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Is Bonn or Anchorage Better for Students?

Bonn
Anchorage

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

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Anchorage is not popular with students.


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

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bonn is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Bonn or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Bonn
Anchorage

Bonn is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bonn and Anchorage. In our opinion, Bonn has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bonn than Anchorage. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Anchorage 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 Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Bonn or Anchorage?

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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Bonn or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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.

Anchorage is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the scenic destination of Anchorage. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Anchorage?

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.

The artsy city of Anchorage offers museums and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Bonn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is $165, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn $91
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn $182
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Anchorage? 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 Anchorage


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 Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn $24
    Anchorage $27

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 Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage 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 $52
    Anchorage $50

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $177

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn $37
    Anchorage $30

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: $3.23
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.23
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.31
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.45
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.46
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.58
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $7.31
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.07
  • 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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Private Mat-Su Valley, Hatcher Pass & Local Wildlife Tour: $199
  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn $24
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


When comparing the travel costs between Bonn and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage 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. Even though Bonn is in Europe and Anchorage is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Anchorage?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Anchorage, 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 Anchorage?

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 Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Bonn during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bonn is a little warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Bonn or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Anchorage. Most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In the autumn, Bonn is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bonn in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Anchorage. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Bonn or Anchorage in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the winter. The weather in Bonn can be very cold. In January, Bonn is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Bonn or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. Bonn is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Bonn

Bonn Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)