A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bonn vs. Toulon for Families, Attractions, Old Town, and Food

Should you visit Bonn or Toulon?

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

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

Toulon

Toulon is a industrial, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Bonn and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bonn or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulon. Although Bonn and Toulon are both popular with visitors, Toulon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toulon is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is known for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Bonn is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers. It is also home to The Old Town.

How is Bonn different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Both Bonn and Toulon 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 Toulon. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Bonn and Toulon.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a popular place for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Toulon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its 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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Toulon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bonn and Toulon both offer plenty of great spots.

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.

Toulon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Families?

Bonn is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Toulon make for a good 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bonn and Toulon 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.

Toulon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is Bonn or Toulon Better for Students?

Bonn is a well-known place for students. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Bonn is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Bonn or Toulon a more walkable city?

Bonn and Toulon are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Toulon is a very walkable city. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Toulon?

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

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Toulon. 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 Toulon. 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 Toulon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bonn.

One day in Bonn or Toulon?

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 Toulon. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bonn or Toulon?

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.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

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 industrial destination of Toulon. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Toulon?

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 real world port city of Toulon 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bonn or Toulon?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon 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 Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bonn is cooler than Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets more rain in July than Toulon. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bonn or Toulon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Toulon. Many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bonn is cooler than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bonn in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during autumn. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bonn usually receives less rain than Toulon. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bonn or Toulon in the Winter?

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

Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bonn is generally much colder than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 3°C (37°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in January than Toulon. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bonn or Toulon in the Spring?

Both Toulon and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Bonn is cooler than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. Bonn usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during spring. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bonn usually receives less rain than Toulon. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Bonn