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

Should you visit Bonn or Rijeka?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Rijeka? 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 lively, cultural, and beautiful city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a diverse, slow-paced, and coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Bonn or Rijeka?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Rijeka than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Rijeka, Rijeka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rijeka is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Bonn is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Rijeka is well known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port. Also, Rijeka is famous for Trsat Castle.

How is Bonn different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.


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

Bonn
Rijeka

Both Bonn and Rijeka offer notable 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 Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Bonn or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Rijeka

Rijeka is a great town for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Rijeka has something for everybody. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

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 Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Bonn
Rijeka

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

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Bonn is not a beach destination.


Is Bonn or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Rijeka?

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Bonn or Rijeka Better for Families?

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.

Rijeka is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.


Is Bonn or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Bonn
Rijeka

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Rijeka make for a notable 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.

Rijeka makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Bonn or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Rijeka

For backpackers, both Bonn and Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Bonn or Rijeka Better for Students?

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is a well-known place for students. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.


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

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system 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.

Rijeka has some public transit options. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Bonn or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Bonn
Rijeka

Bonn is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Rijeka?

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

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

One day in Bonn or Rijeka?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Rijeka. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Bonn or Rijeka?

Bonn is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Rijeka 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 Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Rijeka. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Bonn. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The diverse town of Rijeka 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Rijeka 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 Rijeka is €95. 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 Rijeka in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Rijeka 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Rijeka 100
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Rijeka

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Rijeka? 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 Rijeka


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 Rijeka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Rijeka 16

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Rijeka?

Prices for flights to both Rijeka 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
    Rijeka 34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Rijeka 8.89

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 Rijeka

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Rijeka are as follows:

  • Drava Sup Exploring Adventure: $44
  • From Golden Island of Krk Tour: $93
  • Istria Highlights Tour from Rijeka or Pula: $122
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour: $631
  • Private Walking Cultural Tour of Rijeka: $235
  • History of Military Forts Guided Tour: $64
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $127
  • Pula, Rovinj, and Panoramic Istrian Coast Tour: $121
  • Tour the underground with no experience required: $64
  • Ucka Mountain: Guided Hiking Tour: $449

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Rijeka 16


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bonn and Rijeka, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Rijeka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rijeka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rijeka 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 Rijeka.

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


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Rijeka?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Rijeka. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Rijeka, 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 Rijeka?

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 Rijeka in the Summer?

Both Rijeka and Bonn during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally cooler than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Rijeka, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Rijeka. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Rijeka 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Rijeka in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Rijeka. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Bonn is cooler than Rijeka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Rijeka 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Rijeka in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Rijeka. Many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bonn is much colder than Rijeka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Rijeka averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Rijeka. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Rijeka 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Rijeka in the Spring?

Both Rijeka and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Bonn is generally cooler than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Rijeka 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Bonn

Bonn Rijeka
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)