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

Should you visit Bonn or Tromso?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Tromso? 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.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Bonn and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bonn or Tromso?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bonn than Tromso. Bonn is bigger than Tromso, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bonn is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Tromso is more popular for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tromso is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Also, Bonn is famous for The Bonn Minster.

How is Bonn different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bonn is a great city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bonn. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Tromso is a great town 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 Tromso. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Bonn or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Bonn is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Bonn or Tromso Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Tromso for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Tromso?

Bonn is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Bonn or Tromso Better for Families?

Bonn is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

Tromso is a very family-friendly place to visit. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Bonn or Tromso Better for Couples?

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

Tromso is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

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 Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bonn and Tromso 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.

Tromso is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Bonn or Tromso Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Bonn. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

Tromso is a good city to visit for students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

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

Bonn is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Bonn or Tromso a more walkable city?

Bonn and Tromso are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Tromso is a very walkable city. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Tromso?

Both Bonn and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Bonn. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Tromso 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 Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bonn or Tromso?

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.

Tromso is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Tromso?

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.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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.

Even though Tromso is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bonn or Tromso?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Bonn and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bonn is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Tromso. Bonn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso during summer. Bonn gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bonn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tromso. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bonn or Tromso in the Autumn?

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

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Bonn is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the autumn, Bonn often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Bonn gets 109 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun.

Tromso gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bonn usually gets less rain in October than Tromso. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bonn or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Tromso. The winter months attract visitors to Bonn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the winter. The weather in Bonn can be very cold. In the winter, Bonn is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

Bonn usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during winter. Bonn gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bonn usually receives less rain than Tromso. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bonn or Tromso in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Tromso. Also, many travelers come to Tromso for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tromso. In April, Bonn is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the spring, Bonn often gets less sunshine than Tromso. Bonn gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun.

Bonn usually gets less rain in April than Tromso. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Bonn