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

Should you visit Kyoto 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 Kyoto 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.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

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

Kyoto and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kyoto is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Kyoto is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Kyoto different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Kyoto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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 Kyoto or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

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 Kyoto or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Bonn has a better nightlife scene.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. 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 Kyoto or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

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

Kyoto has a world-famous historical area. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

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 Kyoto or Bonn?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bonn and Kyoto.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

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.

Is Kyoto or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Kyoto. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Kyoto or Bonn Better for Couples?

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

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kyoto is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto or Bonn Better for Students?

Kyoto and Bonn are excellent places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Kyoto and Bonn.

Public transit in Kyoto can get you to some places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Many visitors use the public transit system 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 Kyoto or Bonn a more walkable city?

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

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Bonn. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Bonn. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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

One day in Kyoto or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 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 Kyoto or Bonn?

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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 Kyoto or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Kyoto. This city 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 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 Kyoto or Bonn?

The historic city of Kyoto offers nightlife and food. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the lively 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, 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 Kyoto and Bonn, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kyoto is in Asia and Bonn is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Bonn?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto 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 Kyoto 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 Kyoto or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Bonn. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Bonn. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months.

Kyoto is a little warmer than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Bonn. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Kyoto 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. Kyoto can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Kyoto is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bonn. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Bonn. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Kyoto