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

Should you visit Hydra or Bonn?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Bonn? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a picturesque, charming, and accessible island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

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.

Hydra and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Bonn are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is known for its nightlife and quaint atmosphere. Hydra is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Hydra different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Bonn have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Bonn both to be good destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Bonn has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Hydra or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Bonn is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Bonn has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Bonn is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Bonn is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hydra is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Hydra is a popular place for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Hydra and Bonn.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

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 Hydra or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Hydra is a great island for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Hydra for the hiking trails. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Bonn?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bonn and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Bonn is a very family-friendly destination. 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, Hydra is very family-friendly. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for Couples?

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

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Bonn Better for Students?

Bonn is a great destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Bonn is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Bonn is a great destination for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Bonn a more walkable city?

Hydra is very popular for its walkability. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Hydra is a very easy island to get around on foot. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Bonn?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Hydra 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.

One day in Hydra or Bonn?

Hydra is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bonn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy 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 Hydra or Bonn?

Hydra 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.

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 Hydra or Bonn?

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This island 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 Hydra or Bonn?

Because Hydra is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hydra and Bonn, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Hydra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hydra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hydra 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 Bonn would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bonn than you might in Hydra.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hydra Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Hydra during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

Hydra is a little warmer than Bonn in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the summer, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Bonn. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Hydra is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Bonn averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hydra or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Bonn. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Bonn. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Hydra is much warmer than Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Bonn. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Hydra