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

Should you visit Windsor or Bonn?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, 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.

Windsor and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Windsor or Bonn?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bonn. Although Windsor and Bonn are popular destinations, Bonn has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bonn is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Bonn is famous for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. It is also well known for The Bonn Minster.

How is Windsor different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Windsor
Bonn

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Windsor and Bonn.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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.


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

Windsor
Bonn

Foodies will find both Windsor and Bonn both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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 Windsor or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Bonn

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Bonn.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

If you're looking for night time activities Bonn has a few options to choose from. 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 Windsor or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Bonn?

Windsor
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Bonn Better for Families?

Windsor
Bonn

Bonn is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Bonn Better for Couples?

Windsor
Bonn

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

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Bonn

Bonn is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Bonn Better for Students?

Windsor
Bonn

Bonn is well known for students. However, Windsor is not popular with 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Windsor
Bonn

Bonn is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Windsor or Bonn a more walkable city?

Windsor
Bonn

Windsor and Bonn both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Bonn?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bonn than Windsor 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 Bonn.


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

One day in Windsor or Bonn?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Windsor or Bonn?

Windsor 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.

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 Windsor or Bonn?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Windsor or Bonn?

Because Windsor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Bonn is £132. 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 Windsor and Bonn in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Bonn £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Bonn £146
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Bonn

Looking for a hotel in Windsor 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 Windsor


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Bonn Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Bonn £19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

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 Windsor or Bonn?

Prices for flights to both Bonn and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Bonn £42
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Bonn £29

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

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
    Windsor £7.55
    Bonn £20


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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Bonn?

Bonn has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Windsor during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

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

In the summer, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Bonn. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Windsor or Bonn in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Bonn. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bonn for the shopping scene.

Windsor is around the same temperature as Bonn in the autumn. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Windsor usually receives more rain than Bonn. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Bonn 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Bonn. Many travelers come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Windsor. In the winter, Windsor is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the winter temperatures in Windsor in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Bonn averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bonn. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Bonn 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Bonn in the Spring?

Both Bonn and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Windsor is generally around the same temperature as Bonn. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 9°C (48°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bonn during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bonn. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Bonn 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bonn and Windsor

Windsor Bonn
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)