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

Should you visit Bonn or Killarney?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Killarney? 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 is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Killarney

Killarney is a local, natural, and peaceful town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Bonn and Killarney: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Bonn or Killarney?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bonn. Although Bonn and Killarney are both popular with visitors, Bonn has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bonn is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Killarney is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Killarney is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. 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 Killarney?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Killarney

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bonn. 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.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.


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

Bonn
Killarney

Both Bonn and Killarney 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 Killarney. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Bonn or Killarney Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Killarney

Bonn is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Killarney is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Killarney doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Is Bonn or Killarney Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Killarney

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

Bonn is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Bonn or Killarney Better for Hiking?

Bonn
Killarney

Killarney is a great town for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Killarney for the hiking trails. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Killarney?

Bonn
Killarney

Bonn is well known for shopping. However, Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Killarney is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bonn or Killarney Better for Families?

Bonn
Killarney

Bonn is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bonn is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Killarney is very family-friendly. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.


Is Bonn or Killarney Better for Couples?

Bonn
Killarney

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

Killarney is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

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 Killarney Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Killarney

For backpackers, both Bonn and Killarney 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.

Killarney is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

Is Bonn or Killarney Better for Students?

Bonn
Killarney

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

Students come from all over to stay in Bonn. 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.

Killarney is not popular with students.


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

Bonn
Killarney

Bonn is well known for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Is Bonn or Killarney a more walkable city?

Bonn
Killarney

Bonn is well known for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Killarney is not a very walkable city. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.

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

Should I spend more time in Killarney or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Killarney?

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

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Killarney. 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 Killarney. 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 Killarney 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 Killarney? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Killarney 2-3

One day in Bonn or Killarney?

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 museums and food when visiting the destination of Killarney. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Killarney?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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.

Killarney is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Killarney?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural 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 food around the charming destination of Killarney. This town 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 Killarney?

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 charming town of Killarney 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Killarney 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 Killarney is €167. 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 Killarney in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Killarney 102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Killarney 204
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Killarney

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Killarney? 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 Killarney


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 Killarney Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Killarney 20

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 Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Killarney?

Prices for flights to both Killarney 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
    Killarney 46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

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

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Killarney 19

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 Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Killarney 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75


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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Killarney?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Killarney, 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 Killarney?

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 Killarney in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Killarney. Many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Killarney for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bonn is a little warmer than Killarney in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Killarney fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Bonn often gets more sunshine than Killarney. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 140 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Killarney. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Killarney 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Killarney in the Autumn?

Both Killarney and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Killarney because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Bonn usually receives more sunshine than Killarney during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 79 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Killarney. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Killarney 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Killarney in the Winter?

Both Killarney and Bonn during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bonn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Killarney this time of year.

The weather in Bonn can be very cold. In January, Bonn is generally much colder than Killarney. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Killarney fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Killarney receives 44 hours of full sun.

Killarney gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Killarney. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Killarney 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Killarney in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Killarney. Furthermore, many travelers come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Bonn is around the same temperature as Killarney in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Killarney fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Bonn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Killarney during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Killarney receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Killarney. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Killarney receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Killarney 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Killarney and Bonn

Bonn Killarney
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)