A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Bonn for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a natural, pristine, and remote archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Bonn

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

Orkney Islands and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bonn than Orkney Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bonn is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Orkney Islands is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bonn is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Also, Bonn is famous for The Bonn Minster. Orkney Islands is well known for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is great for its historical sights. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its sights and museums.

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.

Orkney Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.


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

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago 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 Orkney Islands. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

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 Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is very good for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is considered a top beach destination. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Bonn is not a beach destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is great for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

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.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is great for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago 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.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Is Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

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

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

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 Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

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

Orkney Islands is very popular with the backpacker crowd. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

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 Orkney Islands or Bonn Better for Students?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

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

Bonn is very popular with students. 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.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

The public transit in Bonn can get you to most 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.

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Orkney Islands or Bonn a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Bonn

Bonn is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orkney Islands and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Bonn. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Orkney Islands. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Orkney Islands is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bonn is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the serene destination of Orkney Islands. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the serene archipelago of Orkney Islands. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Bonn. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Orkney Islands?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orkney Islands is £128, 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 Orkney Islands and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Bonn £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Bonn £146
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands


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: Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orkney Islands £56
    Bonn £19

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 Orkney Islands or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Orkney Islands 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
    Orkney Islands £34
    Bonn £42

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Bonn £29

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

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

  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $275
  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $246

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
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Bonn £20


When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orkney Islands is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orkney Islands in July average around 12°C (54°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Bonn. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Orkney Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

In October, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 9°C (48°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Bonn. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Orkney Islands in the winter. Orkney Islands is a little warmer than Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Bonn. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Bonn. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Orkney Islands is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orkney Islands in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in April than Bonn. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)