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

Should you visit Bonn or Howth?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Howth? 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.

Howth

Howth is a peaceful, coastal, and beautiful fishing village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Bonn and Howth: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bonn or Howth?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bonn. Although Bonn and Howth are popular destinations, Bonn has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bonn is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Howth attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. It is also well known for The Bonn Minster.

How is Bonn different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

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

Both Bonn and Howth offer nice 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 Howth. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Bonn is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Bonn has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Beaches?

Howth is a great fishing village for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Howth is considered a top beach destination. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is well known for its old town. However, Howth does not have a historic old town.

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.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Hiking?

Howth is a great fishing village for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Howth for the hiking trails. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Howth?

Bonn is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Families?

Bonn is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Bonn is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Howth 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.

Howth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Bonn or Howth Better for Students?

Bonn is well known for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

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.

Howth is not popular with students.

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

Bonn is well known for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bonn can get you to some places easily. 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.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Bonn or Howth a more walkable city?

Bonn and Howth are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Howth is a very walkable city. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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

Should I spend more time in Howth or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bonn or Howth to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bonn than Howth because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 1-2 days is enough time in Howth.

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Howth. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bonn, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Bonn or Howth?

In Bonn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this lively 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 museums and food when visiting the destination of Howth. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bonn or Howth?

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.

Howth is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Howth?

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 food around the picturesque destination of Howth. This fishing village offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Howth?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful 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 scenic fishing village of Howth offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

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

When is the best time to visit Bonn or Howth?

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 Howth in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Howth. The summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

In the summer, Bonn is a little warmer than Howth. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bonn in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Howth averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the summer, Bonn often gets more sunshine than Howth. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Howth. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bonn or Howth in the Autumn?

Both Howth and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Bonn is generally around the same temperature as Howth. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 12°C (53°F), and Howth fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bonn usually receives more sunshine than Howth during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Howth. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bonn or Howth in the Winter?

Both Howth and Bonn during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Howth in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bonn. Bonn is much colder than Howth in the winter. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Howth fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Howth. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 56 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Howth. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bonn or Howth in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Howth. Furthermore, most visitors come to Howth for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Bonn is a little warmer than Howth. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bonn in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Howth averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bonn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Howth during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Howth. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Howth receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Howth and Bonn