Which place is cheaper, Bonn or Zermatt?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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 Zermatt and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.
Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.
Bonn is a lively, cultural, and beautiful city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Bonn are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is known for its museums, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Zermatt is more touristy than Bonn and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Bonn is popular for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bonn and Zermatt. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Zermatt is very popular for skiing. However, Bonn is not a skiing destination.
If you're an avid snow skiier, Zermatt should be on your list. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.
Bonn is not a skiing destination.
Bonn is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.
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.
While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.
Zermatt is a great town 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 Zermatt. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.
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.
Zermatt is a great town for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
The nightlife in Zermatt has something for everybody. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something 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.
Zermatt is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Bonn is not a resort destination.
Zermatt is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.
Bonn is not a resort destination.
Bonn is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Zermatt 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.
Zermatt does not have a historic old town.
Zermatt is very popular for hiking. However, Bonn is not a hiking destination.
People visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.
Bonn is not a hiking destination.
Both Zermatt and Bonn are great shopping destinations.
Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.
Bonn is well-known for its shopping. 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.
Bonn is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Zermatt is very family-friendly. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.
Zermatt is very popular for romance. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.
Zermatt makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.
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.
Zermatt is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.
Zermatt is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.
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.
Bonn is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.
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.
Zermatt is not popular with students.
Bonn is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.
Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bonn. 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.
Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.
Zermatt is very popular for its walkability. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.
Zermatt is a very easy town to get around on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.
Bonn is a very walkable town. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Bonn. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.
Families should spend more time in Bonn than Zermatt. 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 Zermatt than Bonn. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zermatt that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zermatt 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 Zermatt.
Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zermatt. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.
Zermatt is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.
Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the stunning destination of Zermatt. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.
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.
The breathtaking town of Zermatt offers skiing and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Zermatt is $223, 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 Zermatt and Bonn in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Zermatt 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.
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.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zermatt:
Also for Bonn, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Bonn and Zermatt 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.
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zermatt.
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zermatt are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bonn.
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Zermatt:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Bonn, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Bonn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bonn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bonn 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 Zermatt would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zermatt than you might in Bonn.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zermatt Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.
Bonn has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt 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.
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.
The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Bonn. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.
Zermatt is a little warmer than Bonn in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Bonn fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 191 hours of full sun.
Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Bonn. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Bonn and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.
In the autumn, Zermatt is a little warmer than Bonn. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zermatt in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Bonn averages at about 12°C (53°F).
Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.
It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Bonn. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both Bonn and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt 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 Zermatt in the winter. In January, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).
In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Bonn. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bonn receives 45 hours of full sun.
Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Bonn. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Bonn. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty.
Zermatt is a little warmer than Bonn in the spring. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Bonn fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).
Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Bonn during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Bonn receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.
Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Bonn. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Zermatt | Bonn | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 5°C (41°F) | 76 mm (3 in) | 3°C (37°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
Feb | 6°C (44°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) | 4°C (39°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) |
Mar | 10°C (49°F) | 106 mm (4.2 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 47 mm (1.8 in) |
Apr | 13°C (55°F) | 152 mm (6 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
May | 17°C (62°F) | 194 mm (7.6 in) | 14°C (58°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
Jun | 20°C (69°F) | 171 mm (6.7 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 133 mm (5.2 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
Aug | 22°C (72°F) | 166 mm (6.5 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
Sep | 19°C (67°F) | 153 mm (6 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
Oct | 15°C (58°F) | 140 mm (5.5 in) | 12°C (53°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Nov | 9°C (49°F) | 120 mm (4.7 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 56 mm (2.2 in) |
Dec | 6°C (42°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) | 4°C (39°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |