A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bonn vs. Genoa for Families, Attractions, Food, and Old Town

Should you visit Bonn or Genoa?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Genoa? 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 outdoorsy, lively, and cultural city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bonn travel costs.

Genoa

Genoa is a energetic, historic, and vibrant port city. Genoa is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Genoa travel costs.

Bonn and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Bonn or Genoa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Genoa than Bonn. Genoa is bigger than Bonn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Genoa is better known for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Genoa is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Also, Genoa is famous for The Via Garibaldi Palaces. 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 Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Genoa

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Bonn or Genoa.

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 Genoa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.


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

Bonn
Genoa

Genoa is a great port 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 Genoa. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

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 Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Genoa

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Bonn and Genoa.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Bonn or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Bonn
Genoa

Genoa is adequate for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Bonn is not a beach destination.


Is Bonn or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Genoa

Bonn is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bonn to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Genoa?

Bonn
Genoa

Bonn is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Bonn or Genoa More Beautiful?

Bonn
Genoa

Genoa is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Bonn is not a destination known for its beauty.

Genoa is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful port city that has many cathedrals, palaces, and piazzas that you can explore.

Bonn is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Bonn or Genoa Better for Families?

Bonn
Genoa

Bonn is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-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.

Genoa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Bonn or Genoa Better for Couples?

Bonn
Genoa

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

Genoa is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Genoa

Genoa is a great port city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Genoa is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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.


Is Bonn or Genoa Better for Students?

Bonn
Genoa

For students, both Bonn and Genoa are very good places to visit.

Bonn is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

Genoa is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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

Bonn
Genoa

Bonn and Genoa both offer very good 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 Genoa can get you around easily. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Bonn or Genoa a more walkable city?

Bonn
Genoa

Bonn and Genoa are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Genoa is a very walkable city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Genoa?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Genoa than Bonn 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 Genoa.


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

One day in Bonn or Genoa?

In Bonn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Genoa. 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the energetic destination of Genoa. This port 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 Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the lively destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The vibrant port city of Genoa 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa or Bonn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bonn is €154, while the average daily cost in Genoa is €188. 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 Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Genoa 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Genoa 174
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Genoa? 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 Genoa


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 Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Genoa 8.44

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 Genoa

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

  • Private One Way Transfer from Zermatt to Genoa: $869
  • Genova : Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $609
  • Genoa to Florence hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $294
  • Private Door-To-Door Transfer From Genoa To Florence: $288
  • Private Transfer From Genoa to Milan English Speaking Driver: $252
  • Genoa to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $232
  • Genoa Cruise Port to Milan city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $216
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $125
  • Genoa airport (GOA) to Savona Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Milan - Arrival Private Transfer: $113
  • Genoa Cruise Port to Milan city - Arrival Private Transfer: $108
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Portofino hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa 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
    Genoa 90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

For Genoa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $68
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $75
  • Street Food Tour: $86
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $87
  • Traditional Food Tour: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Chiavari with Show Cooking: $94
  • Guided Gourmet Food Tour with Tastings: $103
  • Small Group Street Food Tour in Genoa: $105
  • Genova Cooking Class with Tasting: $105
  • Cooking class in Genoa - Do Eat Better Experience: $107
  • Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $109
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Genoa: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $21
  • Beethoven’s Birthplace Self Guided Tour through Bonn’s Old Town: $6.99
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $122
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $120
  • Bonn Christmas Market Tour With A Professional Guide: $200
  • Bonn Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $8.86
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $226
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $3.97
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $12
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $7.34
  • Bonn Self Guided Historical Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $326

Tours and Activities in Genoa

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

  • 1.5 Hour Genoa Food Guided Tour & Sightseeing: $47
  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Genoa: $105
  • 3 Hours Private Walking Tour of Genoa from the Cruise Terminal: $243
  • Aquarium of Genoa + Panera Ice Cream Taste experience: $33
  • Aquarium of Entry Ticket and Aperitif: $34
  • Aquarium of Private Tour in Italian ( 14:30 ): $84
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with Local: $81
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Dining at a Local's Home in Genoa: $153
  • City Sightseeing Genoa Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $28
  • Departure by Private Car from Genoa City to Genoa Cruise Port: $44
  • Essential Genoa Photo Tour: $133
  • Explore Hidden Walking Tour: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Genoa 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

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

  • Easy Wine Tasting in Genoa City Center: $28
  • Genoa Wine Tasting near the Aquarium: $44
  • Genoa Wine Tasting near the Aquarium: $45
  • Food and Wine Tasting (also Vegetarian and Vegan): $52
  • Genoa Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings: $59
  • Genoa Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings: $64
  • Genoa Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $106
  • Wine Tasting Experience in the Kings of Italian Wine: $130
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $149


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bonn and Genoa, we can see that Genoa is more expensive. And not only is Bonn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bonn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bonn 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 Genoa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Genoa than you might in Bonn.

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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bonn or Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Genoa. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during summer. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bonn usually receives more rain than Genoa. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Genoa 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Genoa in the Autumn?

Both Genoa and Bonn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Genoa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bonn is much colder than Genoa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in October than Genoa. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Genoa 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Genoa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Genoa. Most visitors come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Genoa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bonn can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bonn is much colder than Genoa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Genoa averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during winter. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bonn usually receives less rain than Genoa. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Genoa 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Genoa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Genoa. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In April, Bonn is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in April than Genoa. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Genoa 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Genoa and Bonn

Bonn Genoa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)