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

Should you visit Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck 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.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a mountainous, scenic, and youthful city. 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 hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Bonn

Bonn is a lively, cultural, and beautiful city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Innsbruck and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Innsbruck or Bonn?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Innsbruck than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Innsbruck, Innsbruck has more sights and attractions for tourists. Innsbruck is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bonn attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Innsbruck is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its mountain hiking, skiing, and winter sports. It is also well known for The Golden Roof in the old town. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

The Golden Roof in the old town
The Golden Roof in the old town

How is Innsbruck different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Skiing?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Innsbruck is a great city for skiing. However, Bonn is not a skiing destination.

Innsbruck offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. This city offers easy access to excellent skiing without having to travel too far. There are 9 ski resorts around town that make up the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck. Each resort has its own personality and style. You can reach the Seegrube mountain in about 20 minutes using the funicular and cable car.

Bonn is not a skiing destination.


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

Innsbruck
Bonn

Bonn is notable for its sights and museums. However, Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Innsbruck does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Innsbruck
Bonn

Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck. The city is known for the hearty and filling food that is perfect for a cold winter day. There are cafes and restaurants around old town that offer traditional dishes including käsespätzle, wiener schnitzel, and apfelstrudel. If you're ready for something a little less heavy, there are a number of ethnic restaurants to choose from outside of the old town.

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 Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck has something for everybody. With its large student population and wide range of young visitors who enjoy high energy activities, there's plenty to do here when the sunsets. There are bars and dance clubs that stay active late into the night.

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 Innsbruck or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Innsbruck
Bonn

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

Innsbruck has a world-famous historical area. The old town is filled with charming restaurants and cafes as well as comfortable outdoor places to relax when the weather is nice. One of the most notable landmarks is the The Goldenes Dachl, or the "little golden roof", but the atmosphere around old town is what makes this place really special.

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 Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Innsbruck is a great city for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Innsbruck for the hiking trails. The city is nestled in the Austrian mountains with many beautiful hikes just outside of town. There are hikes for all skill levels that offer spectacular views of some of the best scenery in Austria.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Innsbruck or Bonn?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Bonn is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bonn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Innsbruck is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Families?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Bonn is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Innsbruck is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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 family-friendly things to do in Innsbruck. The city has a pleasant atmosphere with a charming old town and plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. There's also the popular Swarovski Crystal Worlds, which is fun for kids and adults alike. The Alpine Zoo and the city's many parks and playgrounds all make it a great stop if you're traveling with kids.

Is Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Couples?

Innsbruck
Bonn

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

Innsbruck is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city's old town is filled with restaurants that make for great date nights. There are also many hikes, viewpoints, and activities that are perfect for a couple's getaway.

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 Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Innsbruck
Bonn

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

Innsbruck is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has a number of hostels and affordable restaurants that make it a reasonable option for backpackers and budget travelers. Outdoor activities like nearby hiking are affordable ways to spend the day as well.

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 Innsbruck or Bonn Better for Students?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Innsbruck and Bonn are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

Students come from all over to stay in Innsbruck. The city's laid back vibe and wide range of universities make it a great place for students. There are cafes, bars, and many outdoor activities that students enjoy while they're in the area.

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.

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

Innsbruck
Bonn

Both Innsbruck and Bonn offer excellent public transit options.

Innsbruck has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams and buses that will take you to outlying areas around town.

The public transit in Bonn can get you to most places 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 Innsbruck or Bonn a more walkable city?

Innsbruck
Bonn

Innsbruck and Bonn both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Innsbruck is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, and if you stay anywhere nearby, it's easy to reach it on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Innsbruck?

How long in Innsbruck or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Innsbruck and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Innsbruck than in Bonn. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Innsbruck, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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


  • How many days in Innsbruck or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Innsbruck 2-4 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Innsbruck or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Innsbruck. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Innsbruck or Bonn?

Innsbruck 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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 Innsbruck or Bonn?

You'll find nightlife and food around the outdoorsy destination of Innsbruck. This city 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful 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 Innsbruck or Bonn?

The scenic city of Innsbruck offers food and skiing. 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vienna, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Salzburg, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Innsbruck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Innsbruck is €129, 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 Innsbruck and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Innsbruck 76
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Innsbruck 152
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Innsbruck and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck


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: Innsbruck Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Innsbruck 15
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Innsbruck

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Innsbruck:

  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Salzburg: $255
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck To Munich, English Speaking Driver: $197
  • Private transfer from Innsbruck airport: $196
  • Roundtrip Transfer to Innsbruck Airport, Kitzbühel, and SkiWelt: $130
  • Private Transfer From Innsbruck City to Zell am see City: $112
  • St Anton am Arlberg to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $103
  • Innsbruck Airport(INN)to Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Innsbruck Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen - Round-Trip Transfer: $76
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to St.Anton am Arlberg - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Soelden - Arrival Private Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Airport (INN) to Kitzbühel/SkiWelt - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport to Längenfeld - Round-Trip Transfer: $63

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: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Innsbruck or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Innsbruck 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
    Innsbruck 40
    Bonn 49
Typical Food Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of dining costs in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Soup for Lunch
    3.75
  • Pasta Lunch
    8.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Innsbruck

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

  • Half-Day Food Tour of Tyrolean Cuisine: $146
  • Innsbruck Food Tour: $149

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Innsbruck 19
    Bonn 34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Innsbruck

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Innsbruck are as follows:


  • Schloss Ambras Entrance
    8.00
  • Botanical Garden Entrance Fee
    2.00

Tours and Activities in Innsbruck

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Innsbruck are as follows:

  • AREA 47 Water AREA Entrance Ticket: $35
  • Alpine Zoo Innsbruck and Hungerburg Funicular Combo Ticket: $21
  • Austrian Hidden Gem Tour: The Most Beautiful Villages: $190
  • Bergisel Ski Jump Arena Entrance Ticket in Innsbruck: $11
  • Bergisel SkiJump Area guided Tour incl Tickets: $85
  • Combi Entrance Ticket to Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg: $20
  • Cultural and culinary pleasure tour through Innsbruck's old town: $179
  • Full day small group Tour in Neuschwanstein from Innsbruck: $211
  • Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies : $216
  • Gin experience Tyrol: $119
  • Hungerburg: Roundtrip Funicular Tickets from Innsbruck: $13
  • Innsbruck - "Welcome Tour"! The Guided City Tour for you.: $19

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: $3.20
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.20
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.26
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.39
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $11
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Autumn tours with a live guide: $20
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Innsbruck 19
    Bonn 23


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Innsbruck and Bonn, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Innsbruck much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Innsbruck would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Innsbruck 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 Innsbruck.

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


Which is Bigger, Innsbruck or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Innsbruck. When comparing the sizes of Innsbruck 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.