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

Should you visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a safe, expensive, and beautiful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Stockholm and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Stockholm or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Stockholm is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bonn attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Stockholm is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Stockholm
Bonn

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

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 Stockholm or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stockholm
Bonn

Both Stockholm and Bonn offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Stockholm. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

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 Stockholm or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm
Bonn

Stockholm 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 Stockholm has something for everybody. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm or Bonn Better for Music?

Stockholm
Bonn

Stockholm is very popular for live music. However, Bonn is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Bonn is not a live music destination.


Is Stockholm or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm
Bonn

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

Stockholm has a world-famous historical area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm or Bonn?

Stockholm
Bonn

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bonn and Stockholm.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm or Bonn Better for Families?

Stockholm
Bonn

Both Stockholm and Bonn are terrific to visit with kids.

Stockholm is an extremely popular city to visit for families. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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.


Is Stockholm or Bonn Better for Couples?

Stockholm
Bonn

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

Stockholm makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm
Bonn

Stockholm and Bonn are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

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 Stockholm or Bonn Better for Students?

Stockholm
Bonn

Bonn is well known for students. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.


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

Stockholm
Bonn

Stockholm is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

The public transit in Bonn can get you around 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.

Is Stockholm or Bonn a more walkable city?

Stockholm
Bonn

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

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stockholm and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Bonn. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Bonn. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Stockholm, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


  • How many days in Stockholm or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stockholm 2-7 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Stockholm or Bonn?

Stockholm is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

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 Stockholm or Bonn?

Stockholm is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. 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 outdoorsy 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 Stockholm or Bonn?

Stockholm is a safe big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Stockholm or Bonn?

Stockholm is a coastal city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Stockholm?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stockholm is $167, while the average daily cost in Bonn is $165. 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 Stockholm and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stockholm $96
    Bonn $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stockholm $192
    Bonn $182
Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm 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 Stockholm


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: Stockholm Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stockholm $20
    Bonn $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Skavsta airport: $291
  • Departure Private Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport BMA by Minibus: $264
  • Airport Transfer By Luxuary First Class , Arlanda Airport-Sthlm City: $245
  • Skansen Stockholm Fast-Track Tickets, Private Tour, Transfer: $239
  • Airport Transfer By Business Van - Arlanda Airport - Sthlm City : $207
  • First Class Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Arlanda Airport: $179
  • Private Arlanda Transfer Service to/from Stockholm : $170
  • From Viking Culture Guided Tour with Transfer: $170
  • Stockholm Airport (ARN): Transfer to Stockholm city/port: $168
  • Cruise port VIP Transfer: Cruise port to Stockholm city center 1-6 Passangers: $161
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Arlanda airport: $158
  • First Class Airport Limousine Transfer: Stockholm City to Bromma Airport: $151

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 Stockholm or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Stockholm 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
    Stockholm $36
    Bonn $52
Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    $9.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

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

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stockholm $25
    Bonn $37

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

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

  • Stockholm Fire and Ice Tour! Dive into Swedish lifestyle! Bike and Sauna: $235
  • 1-Day Small-Group Stockholm Archipelago Kayak Tour: $184
  • 1-day 7h Royal Palace and Castle Tour from Stockholm: $349
  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • 2-day kayaking adventure around Vaxholm in Stockholm Archipelago - self guided: $255
  • 3-Hour Private Stockholm Photography Tour of Famous Landmarks : $172
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Stockholm: $63
  • ABBA Museum Fast-Track Tickets, Stockholm Pop Culture Tour: $280
  • Best Stockholm Small Group Bike Tour. English,French or Spanish! : $83
  • Best of Stockholm Walking Tour-3 Hours, Small Group max 10: $68
  • Bloody Stockholm 2h - ghosts, horror and Dark Folklore Tour: $81
  • Bohemian Södermalm Island Walking Tour: $533

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: $6.55
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Bonn Self Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $11
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stockholm $26
    Bonn $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

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

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288


When comparing the travel costs between Stockholm and Bonn, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Bonn?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Bonn in the Summer?

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

In July, Stockholm is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Stockholm. In the summer, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Bonn. Many visitors come to Stockholm in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bonn for the shopping scene during these months.

Stockholm is much colder than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stockholm as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Stockholm 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. Stockholm can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Bonn. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Bonn in the Spring?

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

In April, Stockholm is generally much colder than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Bonn. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Stockholm

Stockholm Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)