A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Heidelberg vs. Bonn for Old Town, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming, scenic, and character-filled town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Heidelberg and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Bonn?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bonn than Heidelberg. Bonn is bigger than Heidelberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bonn is better known for its museums and shopping, while Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. 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 Heidelberg different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heidelberg
Bonn

Bonn is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Heidelberg
Bonn

Heidelberg is a great town 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 Heidelberg. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg
Bonn

Heidelberg is a great town for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg
Bonn

Heidelberg is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Heidelberg has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Bonn?

Heidelberg
Bonn

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

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Heidelberg or Bonn Better for Families?

Heidelberg
Bonn

Bonn is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or Bonn Better for Couples?

Heidelberg
Bonn

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

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Bonn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.


Is Heidelberg or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heidelberg
Bonn

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

Heidelberg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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 Heidelberg or Bonn Better for Students?

Heidelberg
Bonn

Bonn is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for 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.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

Heidelberg
Bonn

Heidelberg and Bonn both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Heidelberg offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bonn. 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 Heidelberg or Bonn a more walkable city?

Heidelberg
Bonn

Heidelberg and Bonn are superb when it comes to walkability.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Bonn?

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

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

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


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

One day in Heidelberg or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With museums and nightlife around the lively 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 Heidelberg or Bonn?

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Bonn?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Heidelberg. This town 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 Heidelberg or Bonn?

The historic town of Heidelberg offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Heidelberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heidelberg is €142, 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 Heidelberg and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heidelberg 93
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heidelberg 186
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Heidelberg and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heidelberg 17
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $253
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $128
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $106
  • Badenweiler Thermal to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $77
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64

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 Heidelberg or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
    Bonn 49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $65
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $488

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heidelberg 11
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

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

  • 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
  • Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $72
  • Amazing Schwetzingen Garden Tour: $240
  • Beer and Old Town Tour: $99
  • Bicycle Tour from Heidelberg to quaint Ladenburg.: $121
  • Culinary city tour in Heidelberg with delicious samples: $43
  • E.Bike Tours around Heidelberg: $154
  • Evening Heidelberg tour with historical night watchman: $18
  • Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $65
  • Fascinating Heidelberg Sightseeing Walking Tour: $219
  • Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg : $132
  • Guided Tour of Student Rabble, Whore Pack and the French War: $379

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $21
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $121
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $52
  • 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: $224
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $326
  • Bonn and Bad Godesberg hop-on hop-off tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $21
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heidelberg 17
    Bonn 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $297


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


Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Heidelberg. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heidelberg in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. Heidelberg usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during summer. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Heidelberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Bonn. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the winter for 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. Heidelberg can get quite cold in the winter. Heidelberg is around the same temperature as Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during winter. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heidelberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Heidelberg or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Heidelberg is a little warmer than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heidelberg in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Heidelberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in April than Bonn. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Heidelberg

Heidelberg Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)