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

Should you visit Glasgow or Bonn?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Bonn, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a high energy, friendly, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Bonn

Bonn is a outdoorsy, lively, and cultural city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Glasgow and Bonn: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Glasgow or Bonn?

You'll generally find more things to do in Glasgow than Bonn. Glasgow is bigger than Bonn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Glasgow is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Bonn is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Glasgow is well known for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. Also, Glasgow is famous for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Glasgow different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Glasgow
Bonn

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Bonn and Glasgow.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Glasgow can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Glasgow or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Glasgow
Bonn

Both Glasgow and Bonn offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Glasgow is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Bonn offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Glasgow or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow
Bonn

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

Glasgow is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

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 Glasgow or Bonn Better for Music?

Glasgow
Bonn

Glasgow is very popular for live music. However, Bonn is not a live music destination.

Glasgow is known as a music capital around the world. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Bonn is not a live music destination.


Is Glasgow or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow
Bonn

Bonn is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bonn to see the historical old town. 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.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Bonn?

Glasgow
Bonn

Bonn is great for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Glasgow or Bonn Better for Families?

Glasgow
Bonn

Bonn is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.


Is Glasgow or Bonn Better for Couples?

Glasgow
Bonn

Glasgow and Bonn are both notable to visit as a couple.

Glasgow is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. 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 Glasgow or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glasgow
Bonn

For backpackers, both Glasgow and Bonn are notable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Glasgow. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Bonn is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Glasgow or Bonn Better for Students?

Glasgow
Bonn

For students, both Glasgow and Bonn are very good places to visit.

Glasgow is a great city to visit as a student. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Students come from all over to stay in 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 Glasgow or Bonn Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Glasgow
Bonn

Glasgow and Bonn both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Glasgow. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Public transit in Bonn is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 Glasgow or Bonn a more walkable city?

Glasgow
Bonn

Glasgow and Bonn are very good when it comes to walkability.

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Bonn?

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

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Glasgow. 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.


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

One day in Glasgow or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Glasgow. 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, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Glasgow or Bonn?

Glasgow 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.

In Bonn, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Bonn?

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy destination of Glasgow. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bonn is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Bonn?

The historic city of Glasgow offers shopping and museums. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Glasgow?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Glasgow is £144, 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 Glasgow and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glasgow £74
    Bonn £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glasgow £148
    Bonn £146
Compare Hotels in Glasgow and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Glasgow 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 Glasgow


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: Glasgow Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glasgow £27
    Bonn £19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Glasgow

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

  • From Private Day Trip to Edinburgh with Transfers: $834
  • Glasgow to Inverness Direct transfer: $781
  • Airport and Glasgow Centre Private Transfer to Oban: $312
  • Executive transfer Glasgow/Edinburgh: $275
  • Glasgow to Gleneagles Luxury Car Transfer: $241
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Edinburgh: $213
  • Roundtrip Transfer Glasgow Airport(GLA) to Glenshee Ski Resort: $207
  • Glasgow to Stirling Luxury Car Transfer: $203
  • Private 1-Way/Roundtrip Transfer to Glasgow Airport: $172
  • Glasgow Airport Transfers: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Car: $169
  • Glasgow Airport to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Glasgow Airport Transfer: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Van: $145

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 Glasgow or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Glasgow 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
    Glasgow £45
    Bonn £42
Typical Food Prices in Glasgow

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Glasgow:


  • Dessert at Farmer's Market
    £1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glasgow

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

  • Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Glasgow £22
    Bonn £29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34

Tours and Activities in Glasgow

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

  • 1.5hr Glasgow Necropolis Tour: The City of the Dead: $144
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour of Glasgow: $209
  • 2-Day Highlands and Loch Ness Tour from Glasgow: $260
  • 3 Hours Private City Glasgow Walking Tour: $272
  • 3-Hour Private Glasgow Essentials Tour: $284
  • Celtic Park Tour & Dine Package: $53
  • City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $23
  • Discover Glasgow's Finest - Private Walking Tour: $512
  • Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan - 2 Day Tour from Glasgow: $152
  • Executive Scottish Lowlands Tour: $1,124
  • From Glasgow, Edinburgh: Outlander Private Tour: $1,031
  • From 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness Tour: $262

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 ): $120
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $51
  • 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: $6.55
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Glasgow £15
    Bonn £20
Typical Alcohol Prices in Glasgow

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Glasgow:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Glasgow

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

  • Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting: $23
  • Tennent’s Brewery Guided Tour and Free Pint: $24
  • Glengoyne Distillery Tour with Whisky & Chocolate: $37
  • Glasgow Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Sample Fine & Rare Whiskies at Glengoyne Distillery: $62
  • Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow : $70
  • The Malt Master Experience at Glengoyne Distillery: $112
  • Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour: $186
  • Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Distillery Visit: $187
  • Pints & Past: Glasgow Pub Tour: $456


When comparing the travel costs between Glasgow and Bonn, we can see that Glasgow 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 Glasgow Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Bonn?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Glasgow in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Glasgow is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Glasgow in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during summer. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Bonn. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Glasgow 15°C (59°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Glasgow during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bonn because of the shopping scene.

In October, Glasgow is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 10°C (49°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Glasgow 10°C (49°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Bonn. The winter months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bonn in the winter. The weather in Glasgow can be very cold. Glasgow is a little warmer than Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during winter. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Bonn. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Glasgow or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Bonn. The activities around the city are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year.

In the spring, Glasgow is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Glasgow in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in April than Bonn. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Bonn and Glasgow

Glasgow Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)