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

Should you visit Heraklion or Bonn?

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

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

Heraklion

Heraklion is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Bonn

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

Heraklion and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Bonn?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Bonn attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Heraklion is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Heraklion different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bonn. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

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

Heraklion 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 Heraklion. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Heraklion has something for everybody. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Bonn is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Bonn?

Bonn is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Bonn is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

Is Heraklion or Bonn Better for Couples?

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

Heraklion is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Heraklion is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

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 Heraklion or Bonn Better for Students?

Bonn is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Bonn is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Bonn has some very good public transit options. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Heraklion or Bonn a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Bonn are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Bonn. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Bonn?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible destination of Heraklion. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bonn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Bonn?

The accessible city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Bonn?

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

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

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Bonn. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bonn in the Autumn?

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

Heraklion is much warmer than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bonn in the Winter?

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

The weather in Bonn can be very cold. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Bonn. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bonn in the Spring?

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

In April, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Bonn. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Heraklion