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

Should you visit Bonn or Cannes?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Cannes? 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. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cannes

Cannes is a opulent , luxury, and lavish resort city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bonn and Cannes: 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 for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bonn or Cannes?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cannes than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Cannes, Cannes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cannes is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is more popular for its museums and quaint atmosphere. Cannes is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Also, Cannes is famous for Boulevard de la Croisette. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Bonn different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Cannes

Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Bonn specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bonn
Cannes

Cannes 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, Cannes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Cannes

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

The nightlife in Cannes has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

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 Cannes Better for Music?

Bonn
Cannes

Cannes is very popular for live music. However, Bonn is not a live music destination.

Cannes is known as a music capital around the world. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Bonn is not a live music destination.


Is Bonn or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Bonn
Cannes

Cannes is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Bonn is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cannes is a great choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Bonn is not a resort destination.

Is Bonn or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bonn
Cannes

Cannes is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cannes has a few good snorkeling spots. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bonn or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Bonn
Cannes

Cannes is a great resort city for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Cannes is considered a top beach destination. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Bonn is not a beach destination.


Is Bonn or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Cannes

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Bonn and Cannes.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Cannes?

Bonn
Cannes

Cannes 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 Cannes. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Cannes Better for Families?

Bonn
Cannes

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

Cannes is a family-friendly city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.


Is Bonn or Cannes Better for Couples?

Bonn
Cannes

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

Cannes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

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 Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Cannes

Bonn is very good for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bonn is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Bonn or Cannes Better for Students?

Bonn
Cannes

Bonn is a well-known place for students. However, Cannes 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.

Cannes is not popular with students.


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

Bonn
Cannes

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

Bonn offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

Cannes has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Bonn or Cannes a more walkable city?

Bonn
Cannes

Bonn and Cannes are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Cannes is a very walkable city. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Bonn or Cannes. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cannes 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 Cannes.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Cannes 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 Cannes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Cannes 2-4

One day in Bonn or Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Cannes. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Cannes?

Bonn is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cannes is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cannes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the lavish destination of Cannes. This resort city 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 Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bonn. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The luxury resort city of Cannes offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.


Which place is cheaper, Cannes 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 Cannes is €137. 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 Cannes in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Cannes? 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 Cannes


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 Cannes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Cannes 16

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 Cannes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cannes:

  • Cannes-Mandelieu Airport (CEQ): Transfer to Port de la Santé: $433
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer-Port de la Santé: Transfer to Cannes: $399
  • Private Transfer to/from Marseille: $310
  • Cannes Private Transfer from Cannes city centre to Nice Airport: $295
  • Private Transfer to/from Saint-Tropez: $225
  • Private Transfer to/from Monaco: $181
  • Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Monaco: $139
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Nice Airport: $128
  • Transfer Nice Airport French Riviera: $125
  • Private One-way Transfer From Cannes to Nice, 2h Stop in Antibes: $124
  • Private Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $116
  • Departure Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $103

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Cannes?

Prices for flights to both Cannes 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
    Cannes 45

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Cannes 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: $3.21
  • 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 Cannes

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

  • Watch the Fireworks from the boat. Unique experience: $1,593
  • Cannes 2 Hours : Privat City Tour in a French Vintage Bus: $315
  • Cannes 2.5-Hour E-bike Tour: $74
  • Cannes : Ferrari experience: $214
  • Cannes : Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • Cannes Discovery: walking Tour Led by a Local Expert: $38
  • Cannes E-Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • Cannes Experience private boat tour Islands French Riviera: $631
  • Cannes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Cannes Luxury Catamaran Half or Day Cruise with lunch option: $96
  • Cannes Royal Regatta Catamaran cruise: $107
  • Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.84

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Cannes 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Cannes

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cannes:

  • St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes: $130
  • Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon: Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $139
  • French Riviera: Provencal Wine Tours: $759
  • Wine Tasting, Cannes, Coco Chanel, Perfume Factory & Grasse: $1,273


When comparing the travel costs between Bonn and Cannes, 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 Cannes Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Cannes?

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

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 Cannes in the Summer?

Both Cannes and Bonn during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cannes for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally cooler than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Cannes. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Cannes 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Cannes. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Cannes in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bonn is cooler than Cannes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Cannes receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Cannes. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Cannes 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Cannes in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Cannes. Many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cannes for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bonn is much colder than Cannes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Cannes averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Cannes. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Cannes 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cannes because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Cannes. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Cannes 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Cannes and Bonn

Bonn Cannes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)