A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Bonn for Families, Attractions, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Dover or Bonn?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a natural, breathtaking, and iconic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Bonn

Bonn is a lively, cultural, and beautiful city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dover and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Dover or Bonn?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bonn than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bonn is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Dover is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe. 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 Dover different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Bonn specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


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

Dover
Bonn

Foodies will find both Dover and Bonn both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Is Dover or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is very good for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Dover does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bonn. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Dover does not have a historic old town.


Is Dover or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Dover
Bonn

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

Many visitors go to Dover for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Bonn?

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Bonn Better for Families?

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Dover or Bonn Better for Couples?

Dover
Bonn

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

Dover is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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 Dover or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Bonn

Both Dover and Bonn are notable destinations for backpackers.

Dover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Dover or Bonn Better for Students?

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

Bonn is very popular with students. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

Dover is not popular with students.


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

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Bonn can get you to most places 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Bonn a more walkable city?

Dover
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Dover?

How long in Dover or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dover and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dover than in Bonn. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Dover. 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 Dover. 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 Dover 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 Dover or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Dover or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Dover. 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.

In Bonn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Dover or Bonn?

Dover is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Bonn?

You'll find museums and food around the natural destination of Dover. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Bonn?

The natural town of Dover offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Dover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dover is £124, while the average daily cost in Bonn is £132. 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 Dover and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Bonn £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Bonn £146
Compare Hotels in Dover and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Dover 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 Dover


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: Dover Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Bonn £19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55

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 Dover or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Dover 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
    Dover £38
    Bonn £42

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dover £20
    Bonn £29

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Canterbury Landmarks Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Canterbury Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $276
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Canterbury's World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour: $229
  • Christmas Tales in Canterbury – Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $210
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • From London: Dover Castle and White Cliffs Tour by Car: $1,083
  • Literary & Cultural Heritage: Canterbury Private Walking Tour: $218

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
    Dover £7.71
    Bonn £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178


When comparing the travel costs between Dover 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 Dover Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dover or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dover as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dover is around the same temperature as Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dover this time of the year. In the summer, Dover often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Dover or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

In October, Dover is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dover usually receives more rain than Bonn. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Dover or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Dover during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bonn. It's quite cold in Dover in the winter. Dover is much warmer than Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Dover often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bonn. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Dover or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Bonn. Many travelers come to Dover for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dover is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dover usually receives less rain than Bonn. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Dover

Dover Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)