A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Nuremberg vs. Bonn for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a beautiful, historic, and fascinating city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

Nuremberg and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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 Nuremberg or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nuremberg than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nuremberg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Nuremberg is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. It is also well known for Nuremberg Castle. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Nuremberg different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nuremberg
Bonn

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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 Nuremberg or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nuremberg
Bonn

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nuremberg. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

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 Nuremberg or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg
Bonn

Nuremberg is a great city for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Nuremberg has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

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 Nuremberg or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg
Bonn

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

Nuremberg has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

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 Nuremberg or Bonn?

Nuremberg
Bonn

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bonn and Nuremberg.

Nuremberg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

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 Nuremberg or Bonn Better for Families?

Nuremberg
Bonn

Bonn is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

Is Nuremberg or Bonn Better for Couples?

Nuremberg
Bonn

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

Nuremberg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg
Bonn

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

Nuremberg is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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 Nuremberg or Bonn Better for Students?

Nuremberg
Bonn

Nuremberg and Bonn are excellent places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

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

Nuremberg
Bonn

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

The public transit in Nuremberg can get you around easily. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Bonn offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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 Nuremberg or Bonn a more walkable city?

Nuremberg
Bonn

Nuremberg and Bonn both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Nuremberg is a very walkable city. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored 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 Nuremberg Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Bonn?

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

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

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


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

One day in Nuremberg or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Nuremberg. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nuremberg or Bonn?

Nuremberg 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nuremberg or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Nuremberg. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bonn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Nuremberg or Bonn?

The charming city of Nuremberg 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.

Bonn is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Nuremberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nuremberg is €103, 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 Nuremberg and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nuremberg 61
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nuremberg 122
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Nuremberg and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg


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: Nuremberg Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nuremberg 12
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $618
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $287
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $266
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $266
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $266
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $255
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $249
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $241
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $214
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich, Door-to-Door: $214
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $203
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $190

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 Nuremberg or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Nuremberg 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
    Nuremberg 34
    Bonn 49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nuremberg.

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $266

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nuremberg 10
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

Here are a few actual costs in Nuremberg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bike Tour of Nuremberg Top Attractions & Nature with a Guide: $242
  • Camp Zeppelin Tour in Spanish: $18
  • City tour of Nuremberg: $19
  • City tour through Nuremberg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • City tour through Nuremberg with the little train - Christmas tour: $11
  • Dachau Concentration Camp Private Tour: $216
  • Ferrari Supersport experience drive - drive yourself: $190
  • Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour: $82
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.25
  • Medieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish: $18
  • Nürnberg oldtown: Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Tour: $12
  • Nürnberg: Crime Escape Game - self-guided crime tour: $42

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: $3.20
  • Free Walking Tour Bonn - City Center: $3.20
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $4.26
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.39
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $7.99
  • 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
    Nuremberg 16
    Bonn 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $400
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $511


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Bonn?

Nuremberg has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg or Bonn in the Summer?

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

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

It's quite sunny in Nuremberg. In the summer, Nuremberg often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Nuremberg or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and Bonn. Many visitors come to Nuremberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months.

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

Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nuremberg 12°C (53°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Nuremberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Nuremberg can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nuremberg is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nuremberg in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Nuremberg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bonn. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Bonn in the Spring?

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

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

Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Nuremberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Bonn and Nuremberg

Nuremberg Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)