A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Bonn for Families, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Bonn

Bonn is a cultural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bonn. Although Isle of Skye and Bonn are both popular with visitors, Bonn has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bonn is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Isle of Skye is known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. It is also home to The Bonn Minster.

How is Isle of Skye different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Isle of Skye is a great island 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 Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Isle of Skye is a great island for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is considered a top beach destination. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Bonn is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

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

There are many historical things to see 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Isle of Skye is very popular for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Isle of Skye is a great island for romance. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Isle of Skye is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples 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 Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Isle of Skye is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Bonn Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with 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.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Bonn a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Bonn

Bonn is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Bonn. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Isle of Skye. 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.

In Bonn, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this outdoorsy city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Isle of Skye is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. 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.

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the dramatic destination of Isle of Skye. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife 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. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isle of Skye or Bonn?

The diverse island of Isle of Skye offers food. 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 place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, 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 Isle of Skye and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Bonn £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Bonn £146
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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: Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Bonn £19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

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 Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Bonn £42

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Bonn £29

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

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
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Bonn £20


When comparing the travel costs between Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Bonn. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Bonn in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Bonn. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Bonn averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the winter for 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. Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally much warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Bonn. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in April than Bonn. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)