A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bonn vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park? 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. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a spectacular, scenic, and world-famous national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Bonn and Plitvice Lakes National Park: 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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Bonn have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Bonn is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Bonn different from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is great for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find a few tourist cafes near the lakes that serve grilled meats and other simple dishes. You can also grab a snack from the food stalls that are near the entrance to the park.

Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is great for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is great for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very kid-friendly city. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.


Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for romance. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Bonn is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.

Is Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Bonn
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its walkability. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very easy national park to get around on foot. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Bonn Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bonn than Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Bonn, you'll find food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Bonn. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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.

You'll find around the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The lively city of Bonn offers nightlife and food. 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 a variety of activities to choose from.

The world-famous national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . 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 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park is €125. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park? 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park 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
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $120
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $51
  • Bonn Crime-Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Musikerviertel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $222
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $11
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $321
  • Bonn and Bad Godesberg hop-on hop-off tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $20

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $76
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • Croatia Walking Tour in a Wonderland: $174
  • E-Bike tour Plitvice Big Waterfall Viewpoints & Tito's Villa: $87
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes from Split & Trogir: $738
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • PLITVICE LAKES FULL DAY TOUR WITH LOCAL: $182
  • Plitvice Countryside Bike Tour with Barac Caves: $76
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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

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



When is the best time to visit Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Bonn is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bonn usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Bonn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bonn is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bonn in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold during winter. Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bonn is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bonn usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

Bonn is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Bonn

Bonn Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)