A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Bonn vs. Bamberg for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Bonn or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Bamberg? 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.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Bonn and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Bamberg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bonn than Bamberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bonn is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Bamberg is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. 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 Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Bamberg

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

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.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Bonn
Bamberg

Both Bonn and Bamberg 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 Bamberg. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Bonn or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Bamberg

Bonn is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town 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 Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Bonn or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Bamberg has a world-famous historical area. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Bamberg?

Bonn
Bamberg

Bonn is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Bonn or Bamberg Better for Families?

Bonn
Bamberg

Bonn is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Bamberg is a family-friendly city. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Bonn or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Bonn
Bamberg

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

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Bamberg

For backpackers, both Bonn and Bamberg 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.

Bamberg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Bonn or Bamberg Better for Students?

Bonn
Bamberg

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

Bonn is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Bonn
Bamberg

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

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.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Bonn or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Bonn
Bamberg

Bamberg is very popular for its walkability. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Bamberg?

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

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

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

One day in Bonn or Bamberg?

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.

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

A weekend in Bonn or Bamberg?

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.

Bamberg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Bonn or Bamberg?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the storybook destination of Bamberg. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Bamberg?

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.

The storybook town of Bamberg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg 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 Bamberg is €127. 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 Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Bamberg? 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 Bamberg


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 Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Bamberg 14

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Bamberg 17

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: $3.26
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.26
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.34
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.14
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $11
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • From Rhine River Boat Tour to Königswinter: $21
  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $21
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $21

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $283
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $242
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $20
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Food and Beer Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $17
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bonn and Bamberg, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Bamberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bamberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bamberg 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 Bamberg.

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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Bamberg?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

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

Bonn is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Bamberg. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Bamberg in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Bonn is around the same temperature as Bamberg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bonn in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Bamberg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Bonn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Bamberg in the Winter?

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

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. Bonn can be very cold during winter. In January, Bonn is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

Bonn is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Bonn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Bonn

Bonn Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)