A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Leipzig vs. Bonn for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Leipzig or Bonn?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Leipzig or Bonn, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a cultural, historic, and growing city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

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

Leipzig and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Leipzig or Bonn?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bonn than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Bonn, Bonn has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Leipzig is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. 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 Leipzig different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Leipzig
Bonn

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Leipzig or Bonn.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leipzig can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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.


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

Leipzig
Bonn

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Leipzig and Bonn.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

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 Leipzig or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Leipzig
Bonn

The vibe at night is good in both Leipzig and Bonn.

If you're looking for night time activities Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

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 Leipzig or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Leipzig
Bonn

Bonn is great for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bonn to see the historical old town. 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Bonn?

Leipzig
Bonn

If you're looking to go shopping, Leipzig and Bonn both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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.

Is Leipzig or Bonn Better for Families?

Leipzig
Bonn

Bonn is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Leipzig or Bonn Better for Couples?

Leipzig
Bonn

Leipzig and Bonn are both good to visit as a couple.

Leipzig is a nice destination for couples. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

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 Leipzig or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leipzig
Bonn

For backpackers, both Leipzig and Bonn are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Bonn is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Leipzig or Bonn Better for Students?

Leipzig
Bonn

Bonn is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

Bonn is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Leipzig
Bonn

Leipzig and Bonn both offer very good public transit to get you around.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Leipzig. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Public transit in Bonn can get you to some 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 Leipzig or Bonn a more walkable city?

Leipzig
Bonn

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

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Leipzig and Bonn. In our opinion, Bonn has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bonn than Leipzig. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Leipzig or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Leipzig 1-3 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Leipzig or Bonn?

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

In Bonn, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Leipzig or Bonn?

Leipzig is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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.

In Bonn, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer.


Five days in Leipzig or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Leipzig. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bonn is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Leipzig or Bonn?

The cultural city of Leipzig offers nightlife and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany, and The Best Luxury Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Leipzig?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €166, 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 Leipzig and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Leipzig 91
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Leipzig 182
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Leipzig and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Leipzig 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 Leipzig


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: Leipzig Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Leipzig 27
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $67
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34

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 Leipzig or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 53
    Bonn 49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Leipzig 36
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $216
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $43
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $43
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $23
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $18
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $629
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $18
  • Gruseltour A Haunted Guided Tour: $18

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 ): $51
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $119
  • 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: $6.52
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Walking Tour (In the footsteps of Ludwig Van Beethoven): $320
  • Bonn and Bad Godesberg hop-on hop-off tour in a double-decker bus: $22
  • 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
    Leipzig 26
    Bonn 23


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


Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Bonn?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Leipzig in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Leipzig is around the same temperature as Bonn in the summer. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. Leipzig usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during summer. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Bonn. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Leipzig during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Leipzig for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bonn because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Leipzig is around the same temperature as Bonn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Leipzig in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Bonn averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Leipzig often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in October than Bonn. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Bonn. The winter months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bonn in the winter. The weather in Leipzig can be very cold. In January, Leipzig is generally much colder than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 1°C (33°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Leipzig usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during winter. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Bonn. Leipzig gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Leipzig as well as Bonn.

Leipzig is around the same temperature as Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Leipzig often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bonn. Leipzig gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Leipzig

Leipzig Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)