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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

Bonn is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and lively city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Bucharest or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bucharest than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bucharest is very popular for its big city activities, while Bonn attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Bonn is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. It is also well known for The Palace of Parliament.

How is Bucharest different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.


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

Bucharest
Bonn

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Bucharest and Bonn.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Bonn is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Bucharest or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Bucharest
Bonn

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

Bucharest has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

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 Bucharest or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.


Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Bonn?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Bonn Better for Families?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Bonn Better for Couples?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.


Is Bucharest or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bucharest and Bonn are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

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.

Is Bucharest or Bonn Better for Students?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest
Bonn

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Bonn.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Bonn offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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 Bucharest or Bonn a more walkable city?

Bucharest
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bucharest and Bonn. In our opinion, Bonn has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bonn than Bucharest. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bucharest 1-3 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Bucharest or Bonn?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Bonn?

Bucharest 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Bucharest or Bonn?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bonn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Bonn?

The charming city of Bucharest 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.

Bonn is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Bucharest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bucharest is $137, while the average daily cost in Bonn is $165. 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 Bucharest and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bucharest $63
    Bonn $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bucharest $126
    Bonn $182
Compare Hotels in Bucharest and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Bucharest 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 Bucharest


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: Bucharest Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bucharest $26
    Bonn $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest to Sofia - Private Transfer: $580
  • Bucharest to Sofia Private Transfer: $448
  • Bucharest to Mihail Kogalniceanu - Private Transfer: $344
  • Mihail Kogalniceanu to Bucharest - Private Transfer: $344
  • Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo - Private Transfer: $322
  • Bucharest to Fetesti - Private Transfer: $322
  • Bucharest to Craiova - Private Transfer: $301
  • Transfer Bucharest Airport to Brasov: $288
  • Bucharest (Romania) to Veliko Tarnavo (Bulgaria) - Private Guided Transfer : $283
  • Bucharest to Tulcea - Private Guided Transfer - Driver and Car : $283
  • Bucharest to Galati - Driver and Car - Private Guided Transfer : $272
  • Bucharest to Constanta or Mamaia Beach - Private Transfer - Car and Driver: $272

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 Bucharest or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Bucharest 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
    Bucharest $58
    Bonn $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

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

  • Dinner at the Museum of Communism - Traditional Food Tour: $53
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $60
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $65
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $74
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $75
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $84
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner - 3 hours: $86
  • Private Walking Food Tour - Culture, History & Traditions: $98
  • Historical and Cultural Tour with Romanian Cuisine dinner: $141
  • Cooking Class in Transylvania - Day Tour from Bucharest: $182
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $202

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bucharest $15
    Bonn $37

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

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

  • Bears Sanctuary, Dracula's Castle, Brasov Day Trip Private Tour from Bucharest: $249
  • Bucharest Panoramic Sightseeing - Private City Tour: $93
  • Transylvania Heritage Tour at Peles Bran and Cantacuzino Castles: $93
  • 1 Day 4x4 Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $173
  • 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains: $207
  • 10h Bucharest City Tour & Snagov Monastery (Dracula's Grave): $258
  • 14 Days Private Tour in Romania, Moldova & Transnistria: $4,724
  • 2 Days Private Tour - The Romanian Caves from Bucharest: $558
  • 2 Hour Photoshoot Experience Near Bucharest Architectural Charms: $98
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Bucharest City: $87
  • 2-Day Medieval Transylvania with Brasov,Sibiu and Sighisoara Tour from Bucharest: $251
  • 2-Day Small-Group Tour to Dracula's Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, Sighisoara and Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary with Overnight in Brasov: $203

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bucharest $9.17
    Bonn $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

Also in Bucharest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Bucharest Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $25
  • From Romanian Wine Tasting Tour: $26
  • Bachelors Party in Custom Bar Crawl: $37
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $43
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $43
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $47
  • Romanian Wine Tasting: $49
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $51
  • Bucharest Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Bucharest VIP Bar Crawl in Lipscani 'Old Town': $59
  • Bucharest City Tour and Wine Tasting: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Bonn?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Bonn in the Summer?

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

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bucharest 23°C (73°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Bonn in the Autumn?

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

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Bonn. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bucharest 13°C (55°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Bonn. Many visitors come to Bucharest 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. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Bonn. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bucharest -1°C (29°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Bucharest or Bonn in the Spring?

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

In April, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bucharest 12°C (54°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Bucharest

Bucharest Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -1°C (29°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 77 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 1°C (34°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)