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

Should you visit Wellington or Bonn?

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

Should I visit Wellington or Bonn? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wellington

Wellington is a funky, compact, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

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.

Wellington and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wellington or Bonn?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wellington than Bonn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Wellington is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Bonn attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Wellington is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also well known for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

How is Wellington different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bonn is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

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

Wellington 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 Wellington. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

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 Wellington or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Wellington 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 Wellington has something for everybody. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Wellington is a great city for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Wellington is considered a top beach destination. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Wellington or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Wellington does not have a historic old town.

Is Wellington or Bonn Better for Hiking?

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

Wellington is a good destination for hiking. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Bonn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wellington or Bonn?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Wellington and Bonn.

Wellington is well-known for its shopping. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

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 Wellington or Bonn Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Bonn is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Wellington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

Is Wellington or Bonn Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Wellington and Bonn make for a nice place to visit.

Wellington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Bonn is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Wellington or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Wellington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

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 Wellington or Bonn Better for Students?

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

Bonn is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Wellington is popular with students. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

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

Visitors will find high quality public transit in both Wellington and Bonn.

Wellington has some very good public transit options. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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 Wellington or Bonn a more walkable city?

Wellington and Bonn are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable city. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Wellington?

How long in Wellington or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wellington and Bonn. In our opinion, Wellington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Wellington than Bonn. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Wellington, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

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

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

One day in Wellington or Bonn?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Wellington. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy city of Bonn, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bonn, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Wellington or Bonn?

Wellington is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bonn, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Wellington or Bonn?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Wellington. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bonn, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wellington or Bonn?

The laid-back city of Wellington offers nightlife and food. 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.

Bonn is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, 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 Wellington and Bonn, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Wellington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Wellington is in Pacific and Bonn is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Wellington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wellington 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 Wellington.

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

Which is Bigger, Wellington or Bonn?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Wellington 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 Wellington or Bonn?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Bonn has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Wellington or Bonn in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wellington and Bonn. The summer months attract visitors to Wellington because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

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

In Wellington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wellington usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during summer. Wellington gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In January, Wellington usually receives less rain than Bonnin July. Wellington gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wellington or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wellington as well as Bonn. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wellington this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene.

Wellington is a little warmer than Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F)in October.

In the autumn, Wellington often gets more sunshine than Bonnin October. Wellington gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun.

Wellington usually gets more rain in April than Bonnin October. Wellington gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Bonn in the Winter?

Both Bonn and Wellington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wellington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bonn in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bonn can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Wellington is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wellington in July average around 10°C (49°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F)in January.

Wellington usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during winter. Wellington gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Wellington. In July, Wellington usually receives more rain than Bonnin January. Wellington gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wellington or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Wellington during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Wellington in the spring for the beaches.

In October, Wellington is generally a little warmer than Bonnin April. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 13°C (55°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Wellington often gets more sunshine than Bonnin April. Wellington gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun.

Wellington usually gets more rain in October than Bonnin April. Wellington gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Wellington