A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Bonn for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Bonn

Bonn is a cultural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne than Bonn. While Bonn is larger than Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Newcastle upon Tyne is better known for its food and nightlife, while Bonn is more popular for its quaint atmosphere. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for The Tyne Bridge. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Bonn and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bonn can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Newcastle upon Tyne has something for everybody. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Bonn is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn Better for Families?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Bonn is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is one of the most popular family destinations. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn are great destinations for students.

Newcastle upon Tyne is very popular with students. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Bonn is a great port 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.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

Visitors will find great public transit in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne
Bonn

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very easy port city to get around on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.


  • How many days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newcastle upon Tyne 2-3 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Many people visit Bonn for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bonn, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. This port 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.

The destination of Bonn offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

The livable port city of Newcastle upon Tyne 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Newcastle upon Tyne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newcastle upon Tyne is £130, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newcastle upon Tyne £51
    Bonn £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newcastle upon Tyne £102
    Bonn £146
Compare Hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne


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: Newcastle upon Tyne Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £12
    Bonn £19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Newcastle upon Tyne:


  • Parking
    £1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newcastle upon Tyne

Also for Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Newcastle Airport to Newcastle Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Club - Round-Trip Transfer: $65
  • Private Newcastle Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $55
  • Newcastle Airport to Lake District Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $33

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Newcastle upon Tyne 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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £68
    Bonn £42
Typical Food Prices in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newcastle upon Tyne

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

  • The Ultimate Cheese & Wine Food Tour: $83
  • Newcastle Street Food Tour: $88
  • A Taste Of Newcastle Food Tour: $89
  • Northumbrian Coastline Food Tour: $191

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newcastle upon Tyne £17
    Bonn £29

Tours and Activities in Newcastle upon Tyne

For Newcastle upon Tyne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1-Hour and a Half Walking Guided Tour in Medieval Newcastle: $25
  • 1.5 Hour Explore Newcastle Walking Tour: $23
  • 2 Hour Guided Tour of Hadrian's Wall: $38
  • 3 Hour Walking Tour through Newcastle upon Tyne: $38
  • Annual Admission Newcastle Castle Ticket: $16
  • Guided City Walking Tour of Newcastle: $38
  • Guided Walks and Tours, Seahouses, Beadnell & Bamburgh: $29
  • Hadrian's Wall: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the Ruins: $5.20
  • Hadrians Wall tour full day: $121
  • Half Day Hadrian’s Wall Guided Tour : $70
  • Half Day Tour of Newcastle: $183
  • Halloween Special: Newcastle's Dark Side Walking Tour: $32

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
    Newcastle upon Tyne £9.43
    Bonn £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Newcastle upon Tyne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Newcastle upon Tyne:

  • Private Newcastle Pub Tour: $191
  • Newcastle Private Historic Pub Tour: $203


When comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bonn. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during summer. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bonn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newcastle upon Tyne 15°C (59°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Bonn. The autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

In October, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newcastle upon Tyne 10°C (49°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bonn. It's quite cold in Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne is a little warmer than Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during winter. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bonn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newcastle upon Tyne 3°C (38°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Newcastle upon Tyne during the spring are popular places to visit.

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Bonn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newcastle upon Tyne 7°C (45°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)