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

Should you visit Brussels or Bonn?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Bonn. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

Bonn is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and lively city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Brussels or Bonn?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Bonn, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Bonn is known for its quaint atmosphere. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)
La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bonn and Brussels. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brussels or Bonn?

Brussels
Bonn

Both Brussels and Bonn have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Bonn offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Brussels or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels
Bonn

Brussels 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 Brussels. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Bonn

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Bonn.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

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.

Is Brussels or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Brussels
Bonn

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Brussels and Bonn.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Bonn?

Brussels
Bonn

Brussels 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 Brussels. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Bonn Better for Families?

Brussels
Bonn

Bonn is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Bonn is very family-friendly. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Brussels or Bonn Better for Couples?

Brussels
Bonn

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

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Bonn

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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 Brussels or Bonn Better for Students?

Brussels
Bonn

Brussels and Bonn are superb places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Bonn is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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 Brussels or Bonn Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels
Bonn

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

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

The public transit in Bonn can get you around easily. 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.


Is Brussels or Bonn a more walkable city?

Brussels
Bonn

Brussels and Bonn both are superb when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Bonn. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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


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

One day in Brussels or Bonn?

Brussels 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. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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.

A weekend in Brussels or Bonn?

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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.


Five days in Brussels or Bonn?

Brussels is a historic 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.

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.

A week in Brussels or Bonn?

The multicultural city of Brussels offers nightlife and food. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Brussels?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €137, while the average daily cost in Bonn is €154. 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 Brussels and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels 73
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels 146
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Brussels or Bonn? 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 Brussels


Hotels in Bonn


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: Brussels Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brussels 17
    Bonn 23
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $502
  • Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $492
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam by Luxury car: $285
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 SEATS): $279
  • Private Direct Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $256
  • VIP Transfer between Brussels Airport (BRU) and Antwerp: $246
  • Private VIP Transfer to/from Bruges: $245
  • Private Transfer From Brussels To Circuit SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS Belgium Luxury car : $191
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Private Transfert from Bruges to Brussels Airport By Business car: $164
  • From Brussels city to CRL Charleroi Airport- Private Airport transfer 1-3pax: $163
  • From Brussels city to CRL Charleroi Airport- Private Airport transfer 1-7pax: $163

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: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Brussels 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
    Brussels 38
    Bonn 49
Typical Food Prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    4.75
  • Cheese
    5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    6.98
  • Waffle
    3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $29
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $61
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $106
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $130
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $137
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $163

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brussels 23
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Brussels

Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brussels Walking Tour with Waffle Tasting: History and Delights: $23
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $261
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $273
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99
  • A day in the life of Brussels - Private tour with a local: $147
  • Antwerp Sightseeing Tour from Brussels : $48
  • Architecture Tour of Brussels: $27

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: $6.52
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • 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
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels 13
    Bonn 23
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    10
  • Beer
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $17
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Bonn, we can see that Bonn 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Brussels or Bonn?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Bonn, 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 Brussels or Bonn?

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 Brussels or Bonn in the Summer?

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

Brussels is around the same temperature as Bonn in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bonn. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Bonn in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Bonn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bonn averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Bonn. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Bonn in the Winter?

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

Bonn can be very cold during winter. Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Bonn. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Bonn. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Brussels

Brussels Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)