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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Bonn?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Copenhagen and Bonn can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a friendly, happy, and welcoming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

Bonn is a cultural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Bonn: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Copenhagen different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Copenhagen
Bonn

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Copenhagen and Bonn.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

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.


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

Copenhagen
Bonn

Copenhagen is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Copenhagen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

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 Copenhagen or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Bonn

Copenhagen is very popular for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Copenhagen is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

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 Copenhagen or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Bonn

Both Copenhagen and Bonn have excellent historic old towns worth visiting.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Bonn?

Copenhagen
Bonn

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

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 Copenhagen or Bonn Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Bonn

Both Copenhagen and Bonn are terrific to visit with kids.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

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.

Is Copenhagen or Bonn Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Bonn

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

Copenhagen makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Bonn

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

Copenhagen is very popular with the backpacker crowd. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

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 Copenhagen or Bonn Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Bonn

Both Copenhagen and Bonn are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Copenhagen. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

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.

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

Copenhagen
Bonn

Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

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 Copenhagen or Bonn a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Bonn

Copenhagen is very popular for its walkability. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Copenhagen is a very easy city to get around on foot. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Copenhagen and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than in Bonn. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Bonn. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Copenhagen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


  • How many days in Copenhagen or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Copenhagen or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Copenhagen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Bonn, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bonn, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Bonn?

Copenhagen is a fun place to experience. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bonn, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Copenhagen or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the happy destination of Copenhagen. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Bonn?

The welcoming city of Copenhagen 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Copenhagen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $208, while the average daily cost in Bonn is $167. 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 Copenhagen and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Bonn $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Bonn $184
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen


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: Copenhagen Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Bonn $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Copenhagen:


  • Bicycle Renting
    $61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Copenhagen

Also for Copenhagen, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Fredericia Port: $866
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Copenhagen city: $866
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $333
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Private Transfer to Copenhagen: $318
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport(RKE):Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $265
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $255
  • Private Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $249
  • Private Transfers in Copenhagen – to/from airport or hotel: $146
  • Private transfer to/from hotel from/to airport Copenhagen: $143
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport CPH to Copenhagen by Luxury Van: $141
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen to Airport CPH by Luxuy Van: $141
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen city to Copenhagen Cruise Port: $130

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 Copenhagen or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Copenhagen 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
    Copenhagen $61
    Bonn $53
Typical Food Prices in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hot Dogs
    $14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Food Tour in Multi-Cultural Nørrebro District: $91
  • Copenhagen Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $125
  • The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour: $147
  • Private Authentic Home Indian Cooking & Dining Experience: $147

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Bonn $37
Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Copenhagen's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Boat Tour
    $8.56
  • Coffee
    $14

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hours Tour To Wonderful Copenhagen Highlights: $262
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Copenhagen: $62
  • Light Version Adventures in Forgotten Giants : $144
  • 1-Hour Private Segway Tour Copenhagen: $73
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour: $77
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Tour on Electric Scooter "Stand Up Bike" : $77
  • 2 Hours Copenhagen E-Bike Guided Tours: $77
  • 2 Hours Guided Kayak Tour in Copenhagen Harbor: $58
  • 2-Hour Private Copenhagen Segway Tour: $92
  • 3 Hour Private Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour: $118
  • 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English: $97
  • Bagsværd Lake Boat Tour : $15

Tours and Activities in Bonn

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bonn.

  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $51
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $119
  • Bonn Crime-Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Musikerviertel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $222
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $321
  • Bonn and Bad Godesberg hop-on hop-off tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • 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
    Copenhagen $13
    Bonn $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Copenhagen

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

  • Alternative Nightlife Pub Crawl: $36
  • Guided Party Pub Crawl with 4 Shots and 1 Drink: $43
  • Danish Wine Tasting Tour with Guide in Copenhagen Nyhavn: $358


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Copenhagen and Bonn, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Bonn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bonn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bonn 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 Copenhagen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Copenhagen than you might in Bonn.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Bonn?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen or Bonn?

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 Copenhagen or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Bonn. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Bonn. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Bonn. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months.

Copenhagen is cooler than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bonn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bonn can be very cold. Copenhagen can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Bonn. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)