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

Should you visit Linz 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 Linz 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.

Linz

Linz is a historic, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Linz and Bonn: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Linz or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bonn than Linz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bonn is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Linz attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Linz is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. It is also well known for The Bonn Minster.

How is Linz different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Linz
Bonn

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Linz and Bonn.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

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.


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

Linz
Bonn

Foodies will find both Linz and Bonn both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Linz. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Bonn is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Linz or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Linz
Bonn

Bonn is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Linz or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Linz
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Bonn is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.


Is the Shopping Better in Linz or Bonn?

Linz
Bonn

Both Linz and Bonn are excellent shopping destinations.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz or Bonn Better for Families?

Linz
Bonn

Bonn is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Linz or Bonn Better for Couples?

Linz
Bonn

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

Linz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

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 Linz or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Linz
Bonn

Both Linz and Bonn are nice destinations for backpackers.

Linz is a good town to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Is Linz or Bonn Better for Students?

Linz
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Linz
Bonn

Bonn is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.


Is Linz or Bonn a more walkable city?

Linz
Bonn

Linz and Bonn both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy to explore 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 Linz Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Linz?

How long in Linz or Bonn?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Linz 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 Linz or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Linz 1-2 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Linz or Bonn?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Linz or Bonn?

Linz 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.

Bonn 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.


Five days in Linz or Bonn?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural destination of Linz. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bonn. 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.

A week in Linz or Bonn?

The cultural town of Linz offers museums 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.

The beautiful city of Bonn 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Linz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Linz is €114, 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 Linz and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Linz 58
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Linz 116
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Linz and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Linz 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 Linz


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: Linz Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Linz 41
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $211
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $179
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68

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 Linz or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Linz 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
    Linz 32
    Bonn 49
Typical Food Prices in Linz

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


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    4.20
  • Lunch
    8.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Linz 13
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Linz

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

  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $544
  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $261
  • Cycling Tour of Linz with a Private Guide: $236
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $213
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Linz - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Linz Christmas Market Tour: $294
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $401
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $204
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176

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: $3.21
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • 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
    Linz 16
    Bonn 23


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

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


Which is Bigger, Linz or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Linz 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 Linz 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 Linz or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Linz as well as Bonn. Many travelers come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Bonn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Linz is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Linz average around 20°C (68°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Linz this time of the year. In the summer, Linz often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Linz gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets more rain in July than Bonn. Linz gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Linz 20°C (68°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Linz or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Linz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Linz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months.

Linz is around the same temperature as Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Linz usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Linz gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Linz usually receives less rain than Bonn. Linz gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Linz or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Linz during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Linz 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. Linz can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Linz is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Linz in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Linz often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Linz gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets less rain in January than Bonn. Linz gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Linz -0°C (31°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Linz or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Linz and Bonn. The spring months attract visitors to Linz because of the natural beauty.

In April, Linz is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Linz average around 11°C (51°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Linz usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Linz gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Linz usually receives more rain than Bonn. Linz gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Linz 11°C (51°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Linz

Linz Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)