A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Dusseldorf vs. Bonn for Families, Attractions, Food, and Old Town

Should you visit Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled 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 is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf 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
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 Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf than Bonn, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dusseldorf is more popular for its food and big city activities, while Bonn is known for its museums, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Dusseldorf is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also home to Altstadt (the Old Town). Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Dusseldorf different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Bonn is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.


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

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

It's hard to distinguish whether Dusseldorf or Bonn has a better nightlife scene.

Dusseldorf has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Bonn is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Bonn is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Dusseldorf or Bonn Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Bonn is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dusseldorf 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, Dusseldorf is very family-friendly. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Dusseldorf or Bonn Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

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

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Dusseldorf and Bonn are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn Better for Students?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Bonn is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Bonn

Dusseldorf and Bonn both are superb when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dusseldorf and Bonn. In our opinion, Bonn has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bonn than Dusseldorf. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dusseldorf, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dusseldorf 2-3 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Dusseldorf. 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 cultural 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 Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dusseldorf. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn?

The historic city of Dusseldorf 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Dusseldorf?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, 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 Dusseldorf and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf


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: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $78
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $74
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $74
  • Departure Private Transfer Dusseldorf City to Dusseldorf Airport by Business Car: $64
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $50

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 Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 76
    Bonn 49
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

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


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

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

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

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

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $142
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $28
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.16
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $87
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $87
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $52

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: $3.26
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.26
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.34
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.14
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $11
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • From Rhine River Boat Tour to Königswinter: $21
  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $21
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Bonn 23
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

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


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dusseldorf and Bonn, we can see that Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Bonn?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Bonn in the Summer?

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

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

In the summer, Dusseldorf often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Bonn in the Autumn?

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

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

Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during autumn. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Bonn. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Bonn in the Winter?

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

Bonn can be very cold during winter. Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dusseldorf is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 3°C (37°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Dusseldorf often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in January than Bonn. Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Bonn in the Spring?

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

Dusseldorf is around the same temperature as Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during spring. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dusseldorf usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)