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

Should you visit Bonn or Baltimore?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Baltimore? 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. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bonn travel costs.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a historic, vibrant, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Baltimore travel costs.

Bonn and Baltimore: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Bonn or Baltimore?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Baltimore than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Baltimore is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Bonn attracts visitors for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Baltimore is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Bonn different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Baltimore

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Bonn or Baltimore.

Bonn offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Baltimore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.


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

Bonn
Baltimore

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

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 Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Baltimore

Baltimore 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 Baltimore has something for everybody. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

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 Bonn or Baltimore Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Baltimore

Bonn is well known for its old town. However, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Baltimore?

Bonn
Baltimore

If you're looking to go shopping, Bonn and Baltimore both offer plenty of great spots.

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.

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Is Bonn or Baltimore Better for Families?

Bonn
Baltimore

Bonn is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Baltimore. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Bonn or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Bonn
Baltimore

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Baltimore make for a nice place to visit.

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.

Baltimore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.


Is Bonn or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Baltimore

For backpackers, both Bonn and Baltimore are nice 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.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Bonn or Baltimore Better for Students?

Bonn
Baltimore

Bonn is well known for students. However, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is not popular with students.

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

Bonn
Baltimore

Bonn and Baltimore both offer great public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Bonn can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

The public transit in Baltimore can get you around easily. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.


Is Bonn or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Bonn
Baltimore

Bonn and Baltimore are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Baltimore is a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Baltimore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bonn and Baltimore. In our opinion, Bonn has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bonn than Baltimore. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 2-3 days is enough time in Baltimore.

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


  • How many days in Bonn or Baltimore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Baltimore 2-3

One day in Bonn or Baltimore?

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Baltimore. 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 Baltimore?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively 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.

Baltimore 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 Baltimore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy 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 museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Baltimore. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Baltimore?

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 vibrant city of Baltimore offers nightlife 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 Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Music Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Baltimore or Bonn?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Bonn Prices
    Germany Prices
    Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bonn $199
    Baltimore $217

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is $199, while the average daily cost in Baltimore is $217. 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 Baltimore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn $89
    Baltimore $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn $178
    Baltimore $186
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Baltimore

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Baltimore? 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 Baltimore


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 Baltimore Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn $24
    Baltimore $21

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: $77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Washington,DC: $275
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD & Reagan Airport(DCA): $230
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Ronald Reagan Airport: $199
  • Airport Transfer BWI Airport to Baltimore Downtown Area Only: $160
  • Airport Transfer Downtown Baltimore to BWI Airport: $160
  • Private Transfer to BWI or Washington DC/Airports: $160
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $152
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $150
  • Private Transfer from Baltimore Port to Baltimore Airport (BWI): $133
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI - Business Vehicle: $111
  • Arrival Private Transfer Baltimore Airport BWI to Baltimore by Business Vehicle: $111
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Baltimore?

Prices for flights to both Baltimore 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 $88
    Baltimore $79

Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

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

  • Private Hands-On Vegan Cooking Experience in Baltimore: $45
  • Inner Harbor Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner: $63
  • Little Italy and Jonestown Food Tour: $77
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $78
  • Baltimore Signature Dinner Cruise: $94
  • Discover Fells Point Culinary Food Tour: $109
  • Christmas Day Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $110
  • Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $110
  • Baltimore Buffet Dinner/Dance Cruise of the Inner Harbor: $112
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise : $133

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn $36
    Baltimore $18

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.10
  • Beethoven’s Birthplace Self Guided Tour through Bonn’s Old Town: $6.99
  • Bonn Self Guided Interactive City Tour: $7.40
  • Bonn in 1 Day: Walking Tour with Digital Guide: $7.75
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.45
  • Bonn Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Panorama tour between Bonn and Königswinter: $20
  • From Rhine River Boat Tour to Königswinter: $21
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket: $21
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $21
  • Sunset Boat Tour on the Rhine: $25

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Baltimore Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise Tour: $110
  • Baltimore Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $96
  • Baltimore Monuments Walking Tour: $20
  • Baltimore Orioles Baseball Game Ticket at Oriole Park: $22
  • Baltimore Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Baltimore Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise: $75
  • Baltimore Signature Lunch Cruise: $63
  • Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point: $104
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • Baltimore's Historical Sightseeing Tour: $44
  • Baltimore's Private Cultural Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn $24
    Baltimore $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40


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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Baltimore?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Baltimore, 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 Baltimore?

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 Baltimore in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Baltimore. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bonn is cooler than Baltimore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bonn in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Baltimore averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Baltimore. Bonn usually gets less rain in July than Baltimore. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Bonn or Baltimore in the Autumn?

Both Baltimore and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Bonn is generally cooler than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 12°C (53°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Bonn or Baltimore in the Winter?

Both Baltimore and Bonn during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can be very cold during winter. Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. Bonn is much warmer than Baltimore in the winter. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Baltimore fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Baltimore. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Baltimore. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Bonn or Baltimore in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Baltimore. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bonn is cooler than Baltimore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bonn in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Baltimore averages at about 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Baltimore this time of the year. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Bonn

Bonn Baltimore
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)