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

Should you visit Bonn or Montreal?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Montreal? 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.

Montreal

Montreal is a cultural, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Montreal travel costs.

Bonn and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Bonn or Montreal?

You'll generally find more things to do in Montreal than Bonn. Montreal is bigger than Bonn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Montreal is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bonn is more popular for its quaint atmosphere. Montreal is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. Also, Montreal is famous for Notre-Dame Basilica. 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 Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Montreal

Montreal is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Montreal from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with world-class museums and historic sites such as Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory, the Biosphere, and the Fine Arts Museum.

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.


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

Bonn
Montreal

Montreal is a great 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 Montreal. There are both local and international restaurants that serve up excellent dishes. Some of the local recipes that you should try include tourtiere (a meat pie), a smoked meat sandwich, and, of course, poutine.

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 Montreal Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Montreal

Montreal is very popular for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Montreal is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city's nightlife scene is centered around its live music scene, which is excellent. There are also many bars and clubs, as well as a young population that keep evenings lively.

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 Montreal Better for Music?

Bonn
Montreal

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

Montreal is known as a music capital around the world. The music scene is thriving and world class. One of the most unique aspects of the city's music scene is its impromptu nature. You'll find many talented street performers and you'll likely stumble into many high quality performers. There's also a great indie scene as well as hip hop, classical, jazz, and heavy metal at the many live music venues.

Bonn is not a live music destination.


Is Bonn or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Montreal

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

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 Montreal. Vieux-Montreal is the historic part of the city, and it's filled with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. This is also where you'll find the Old Port, which has a waterfront promenade.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Montreal?

Bonn
Montreal

Montreal 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 Montreal. It's known for its fashion scene and there are many independent and local vendors around town. Bonsecours Market is both historic and fascinating, but also make sure you check out Mont-Royal Avenue, which is the main shopping and dining street in town.

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 Montreal Better for Families?

Bonn
Montreal

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

Montreal is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and teens will love the many science museums, parks and gardens, and the nearby La Ronde Amusement Park. If your kids are music lovers, there are many talented street performers in the city that will entertain the young and old alike.


Is Bonn or Montreal Better for Couples?

Bonn
Montreal

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

Montreal is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with romance, from the world class music scene to the romantic restaurants and sunset river cruises. If you're in town during the fall months, check out the Botanical Gardens, which come to life with the annual Gardens of Light.

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 Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Montreal

For backpackers, both Bonn and Montreal are notable 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.

Montreal is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a decent number of hostels as well as a great nightlife scene and plenty of younger visitors looking to meet other travelers.

Is Bonn or Montreal Better for Students?

Bonn
Montreal

Montreal is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent Montreal. It's regularly ranked as one of the top cities in North America for students. There are many students around town, a great nightlife scene, and plenty of opportunities to receive a world-class education.

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.


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

Bonn
Montreal

Bonn and Montreal both offer great 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 Montreal can get you around easily. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Is Bonn or Montreal a more walkable city?

Bonn
Montreal

Bonn and Montreal are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Montreal is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable, particularly in the areas that are popular with tourists.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Montreal?

In either Bonn or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Bonn because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montreal 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 Montreal.


  • How many days in Bonn or Montreal? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Montreal 3-5

One day in Bonn or Montreal?

The city of Bonn offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Montreal is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Montreal?

Bonn is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bonn, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Montreal is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bonn or Montreal?

Bonn is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Montreal is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bonn or Montreal?

Bonn is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

The colorful city of Montreal offers shopping and museums. 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 Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Music Tours in Germany, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada, and The Best Luxury Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Montreal 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 €190, while the average daily cost in Montreal is €219. 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 Montreal in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Montreal 122
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Montreal 244
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Montreal

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Montreal? 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 Montreal


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 Montreal Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Montreal 19

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: $77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montreal

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

  • Transfer Montreal International Airport to Quebec City: $995
  • Private Transfer Montreal International Airport to Ottawa: $703
  • Private Transfer To Quebec From Montreal YUL Airport: $379
  • Private Transfer To Montreal YUL Airport From Mont-Tremblant: $223
  • Private Transfer To Ottawa From YUL Airport: $220
  • Private Transfer To Mont-Tremblant From Montreal YUL Airport: $206
  • Private Transfer from Montreal Airport to Ottawa: $204
  • Transfer Montreal International Airport to Downtown Montreal: $187
  • Private Airport Transfer In/Out of Montreal: $175
  • Montreal Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL in Luxury SUV: $156
  • Departure Private Transfer: Montreal to Montreal Airport YUL in Luxury SUV: $156
  • Departure Transfer Montreal to Montreal Airport by Limos or Bus: $153

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Montreal?

Prices for flights to both Montreal 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 84
    Montreal 58

Typical Food Prices in Montreal

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Montreal:


  • Tim Hortons breakfast and coffee
    8.35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montreal

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

  • Jean-Talon Market Non Touristy Walking Food Tour: $49
  • No Diet Club: Walking food Tour with many tastings: $57
  • Secret Food Tours: Montreal - Jean-Talon & Little Italy: $74
  • Historical Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $74
  • Jean-Talon Market & Little Italy Walking Secret Food tour: $77
  • Montreal Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $77
  • Guided Happy Hour Brew Tour in Montreal with Dinner: $82
  • Mile End Montreal Original Food Tour - by Local Montreal Tours: $96
  • Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour by Local Montreal Food Tours: $106
  • Farmer's Market + Street Food Tour x Michelin-Trained Chef: $121
  • Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour: $123
  • Cooking Class & Tasting with Michelin-Trained Chef: $130

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

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Beethoven’s Birthplace Self Guided Tour through Bonn’s Old Town: $6.99
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $113
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $115
  • Bonn Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $8.36
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $214
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.39
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Self Guided Historical Walking Tour: $7.32
  • Bonn in 1 Day: Walking Tour with Digital Guide: $7.70
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $21
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket: $21
  • 3,5 hours Guided Bike Tour: $277

Typical Entertainment Prices in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Botanical Gardens (family of 4)
    50

Tours and Activities in Montreal

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

  • Montreal ZOO, private half day tour: $198
  • 3 Days 2 Nights Tour in New York: $300
  • 3-Hour Scooter Sightseeing in Montreal: $75
  • Awesome Curling Experience : $85
  • Bell Centre: Montreal Canadiens Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $82
  • Beyond the Basilica Non-Touristy Walking Tour by Spade & Palacio: $51
  • Bike Tour : Downtown, Old Montreal, Waterfront by Fitz Montreal: $73
  • Christmas Magic: Old Montreal Walking Tour: $440
  • Explore Downtown Montreal - Private Walking Tour : $80
  • Explore Old Montreal Small Group Walking Tour by MTL Detours: $42
  • Explore Underground city & Downtown. Great tour to stay warm: $61
  • Exquisite Private Gourmet in Montreal - Culinary Experience: $193

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Montreal 15

Typical Alcohol Prices in Montreal

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Montreal:


  • Vodka
    17

Sample the Local Flavors in Montreal

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

  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $23
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Club Entry: $40
  • Guided Pub Crawl of the City's Skyline Bars: $82
  • Introduction to Wine Tasting, French Natural Wines: $89


When comparing the travel costs between Bonn and Montreal, we can see that Montreal 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. Even though Bonn is in Europe and Montreal is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Montreal?

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Montreal, 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 Montreal?

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 Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Montreal for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally cooler than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Montreal. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Montreal during summer. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bonn usually receives less rain than Montreal. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Montreal 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Bonn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Montreal in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Bonn is a little warmer than Montreal in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the autumn, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Montreal. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in October than Montreal. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Montreal 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Montreal. Many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Montreal for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Montreal can be very cold during winter. Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bonn is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Montreal averages at about -10°C (14°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Montreal during winter. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bonn usually receives less rain than Montreal. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Montreal -10°C (14°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Montreal. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Montreal because of the activities around the city.

In April, Bonn is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the spring, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Montreal. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in April than Montreal. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Montreal 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Montreal and Bonn

Bonn Montreal
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -10°C (14°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) -9°C (16°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) -2°C (28°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) -7°C (20°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)