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

Should you visit Tallinn or Bonn?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Bonn, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a whimsical, historical, and charming city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Tallinn and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Tallinn or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tallinn than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tallinn is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Old Town. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

The Old Town
The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallinn
Bonn

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Tallinn or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallinn
Bonn

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

Tallinn has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bonn area. 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 Tallinn or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Bonn

Tallinn 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 Tallinn has something for everybody. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

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 Tallinn or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Bonn

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

Tallinn has a world-famous historical area. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

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 Tallinn or Bonn?

Tallinn
Bonn

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Tallinn and Bonn.

Tallinn is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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 Tallinn or Bonn Better for Families?

Tallinn
Bonn

Bonn is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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 Tallinn. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

Is Tallinn or Bonn Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Bonn

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

Tallinn is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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 Tallinn or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Bonn

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

Many backpackers frequent Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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 Tallinn or Bonn Better for Students?

Tallinn
Bonn

Bonn is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Bonn is a great 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.

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

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

Tallinn
Bonn

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Tallinn and Bonn.

Tallinn has some very good public transit options. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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.


Is Tallinn or Bonn a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Bonn

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

Tallinn is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy 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 Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Bonn. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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


  • How many days in Tallinn or Bonn? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Bonn 1-3

One day in Tallinn or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Tallinn. 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, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Tallinn or Bonn?

Tallinn 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.

In Bonn, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer.


Five days in Tallinn or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Tallinn. 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.

Bonn is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Bonn?

The whimsical city of Tallinn 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bonn. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Tallinn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallinn is €95, 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 Tallinn and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn 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 Tallinn


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: Tallinn Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Bonn 23
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tallinn

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Tallinn:


  • Tram Around Town for Two
    1.66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tallinn

Also for Tallinn, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Helicopter transfer to Helsinki: $2,647
  • Tallinn Party Bus Airport Transfer: $124
  • Tallinn Arrival Private Airport Transfer in Minivan: $118
  • Tallinn Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tallinn hotels: $102
  • Tallinn Lennart Meri Airport (TLL): Transfer to Tallinn Port: $102
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn City by minibus: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn by Luxury Car : $90
  • Departure private transfer from Tallinn to Tallinn Airport or Port by Luxury Car: $90
  • Tallinn Airport Transfer - Return: $87
  • Beginner Archery Class with Transfer: $80
  • Tallinn Limo Airport Transfer: $75
  • Tallinn Highlights Shore Excursion With Port Return Transfer: $51

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 Tallinn or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Tallinn 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
    Tallinn 36
    Bonn 49
Typical Food Prices in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    7.68
  • Dessert
    1.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tallinn

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

  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (2-course meal): $56
  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (3-course meal): $63
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $84
  • Tallinn Beer House Dinner: $96
  • Tallinn Food Tour: $116
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $127
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $136
  • Vegan Food Tours Tallinn: $213

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

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

  • "Legends and Landmarks: A Tallinn Walking Adventure": $21
  • 120 Degrees daily guided walking tour: $27
  • 2 Hour Tales of Tallinn Private Car Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour: $196
  • 2-Day Guided Tour of Medieval Tallinn : $240
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Tallinn: $49
  • 2-hour private tour of Tallinn with transport: $272
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Tallinn: $188
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Tallinn: $293
  • 5 Hour Deluxe Shore Excursion in Tallinn from Cruise Port: $48
  • 5 Hour Majestic Tallinn Tour from Cruise Port: $45
  • Accessible tour in Tallinn: $738

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
    Tallinn 15
    Bonn 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

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

  • Mad Monk’s Pub Crawl Tallinn: $21
  • Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl): $27
  • Tallinn Exclusive Pub & Bar Crawl - Free Drinks, Local Guide: $42
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $72
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $123


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Bonn?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn 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 Tallinn 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 Tallinn or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Bonn. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tallinn is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 17°C (62°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Tallinn, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallinn usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during summer. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallinn 17°C (62°F) 
    Bonn 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Bonn because of the shopping scene.

Tallinn is much colder than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 7°C (44°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Bonn. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallinn 7°C (44°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bonn in the winter. The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In the winter, Tallinn is much colder than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallinn in January average around -5°C (22°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Bonn during winter. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Bonn. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Tallinn during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tallinn in the spring. In April, Tallinn is generally much colder than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 4°C (39°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in April than Bonn. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Tallinn

Tallinn Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)