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

Should you visit Paros or Bonn?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Paros and Bonn. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Paros

Paros is a striking, historical, and diverse island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bonn

Bonn is a cultural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Paros and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Bonn?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Bonn are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Paros is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Paros different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Paros and Bonn.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Paros. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Bonn offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Paros or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paros is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Paros is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

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 Paros or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Paros has something for everybody. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

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 Paros or Bonn Better for Resorts?

Paros is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Bonn is not a resort destination.

Paros is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Bonn is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Bonn Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Paros is very popular for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paros. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a very popular place for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Bonn Better for Hiking?

Paros is a popular place for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Bonn?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Paros and Bonn.

Paros is well-known for its shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Paros or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Bonn is very family-friendly. 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.

Paros is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

Is Paros or Bonn Better for Couples?

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

Paros makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

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 Paros or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Paros is very popular with the backpacker crowd. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

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 Paros or Bonn Better for Students?

Bonn is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros is not popular with students.

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.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Paros and Bonn.

Public transit in Paros can get you to some places easily. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

Many visitors use the public transit system 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 Paros or Bonn a more walkable city?

Bonn is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Paros?

How long in Paros or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paros and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paros than in Bonn. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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

One day in Paros or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Paros. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Paros or Bonn?

Paros is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paros or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the diverse destination of Paros. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Bonn?

The striking island of Paros offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros 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.