A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers The Hague vs. Bonn for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit The Hague 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 The Hague and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Bonn

Bonn is a cultural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in The Hague or Bonn?

Travelers will usually find more to do in The Hague than Bonn, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. The Hague is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Bonn is known for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Bonn is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. The Hague is popular for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. It is also home to The Peace Palace.

How is The Hague different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Bonn?

The Hague
Bonn

Bonn is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in The Hague or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

The Hague
Bonn

The Hague is a great city 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 The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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 The Hague or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Bonn

The Hague 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 The Hague has something for everybody. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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 The Hague or Bonn Better for Music?

The Hague
Bonn

The Hague is a great city for live music. However, Bonn is not a live music destination.

The Hague has a thriving music scene. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Bonn is not a live music destination.


Is The Hague or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

The Hague
Bonn

Bonn is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Bonn?

The Hague
Bonn

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both The Hague and Bonn.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Bonn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 The Hague or Bonn Better for Families?

The Hague
Bonn

Bonn is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is The Hague or Bonn Better for Couples?

The Hague
Bonn

Both The Hague and Bonn are good destinations to visit as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

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 The Hague or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Bonn

The Hague and Bonn are both good destinations for backpackers.

The Hague is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

It's common for backpackers to 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 The Hague or Bonn Better for Students?

The Hague
Bonn

The Hague is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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.


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

The Hague
Bonn

Visitors will find great public transit in both The Hague and Bonn.

Public transit in The Hague is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Bonn has some very good public transit options. 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 The Hague or Bonn a more walkable city?

The Hague
Bonn

Bonn is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hague and Bonn. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Bonn than The Hague. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hague 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 The Hague.


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

One day in The Hague or Bonn?

The Hague is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 The Hague or Bonn?

The Hague is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 The Hague or Bonn?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the international big city of The Hague. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively 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 The Hague or Bonn?

The international city of The Hague offers nightlife and live music. 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, 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 The Hague and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Bonn 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Bonn 170
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in The Hague 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 The Hague


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: The Hague Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Bonn 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23

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 The Hague or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Bonn 49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

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

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hague 34
    Bonn 34

Tours and Activities in The Hague

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

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

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
    The Hague 30
    Bonn 23

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


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


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Bonn?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of The Hague 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Bonn. Most visitors come to The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.

The Hague is cooler than Bonn in the summer. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In The Hague, it's very sunny this time of the year. The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during summer. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, The Hague usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit The Hague or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Bonn. The autumn months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

In the autumn, The Hague is cooler than Bonn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in The Hague in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Bonn averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, The Hague often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in October than Bonn. The Hague gets 72 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
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Also, 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 The Hague in the winter. In January, The Hague is generally cooler than Bonn. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 2°C (36°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during winter. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, The Hague usually receives more rain than Bonn. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and The Hague during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to The Hague for the activities around the city.

The Hague is cooler than Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, The Hague often gets more sunshine than Bonn. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in April than Bonn. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and The Hague

The Hague Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)