Bonn is a cultural city known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Bonn?
A typical traveler spends $223 (€190) per day on a trip to Bonn. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Bonn based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $99 (€84) on meals
- $26 (€23) on local transportation
- $200 (€170) on hotels
A one-week trip to Bonn for two people costs, on average, $3,121 (€2,660). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,560
€1,330
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,121
€2,660
-
One Month
Per person
$6,687
€5,700
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,121
€2,660
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,241
€5,320
-
One Month
For a couple
$13,374
€11,400
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Bonn cost?
A one week trip to Bonn usually costs around $1,560 (€1,330) for one person and $3,121 (€2,660) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Bonn on average costs around $3,121 (€2,660) for one person and $6,241 (€5,320) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Bonn will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Bonn on average costs around $6,687 (€5,700) for one person and $13,374 (€11,400) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Bonn expensive to visit?
In Bonn, budget travelers spend $96 (€82) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $222 (€190) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $444 (€379) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Bonn.
Bonn is a smaller spot that entices a mix of tourists, showcasing various travel styles, financial habits, and budget considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
You may find Bonn to be expensive in some places, but there are ways to keep your budget in check, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Bonn is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Mont-Saint-Michel or Stockholm.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Bonn Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Bonn?
The average Bonn trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Bonn travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Bonn cost?
Bonn on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$43
(€37)
|
$100
(€85)
|
$199
(€170)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$12
(€10)
|
$26
(€23)
|
$48
(€41)
|
|
Food2
|
$42
(€36)
|
$99
(€84)
|
$202
(€172)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$18
(€15)
|
$40
(€34)
|
$77
(€66)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$6-18
(€5-15)
|
$13-40
(€11-34)
|
$26-77
(€22-66)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your travel budget when visiting Bonn. Although some travelers believe they can get by on a shoestring budget, most people aren't comfortable with that type of travel. Consider what you enjoy on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you like staying in resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are dining out and visiting attractions a priority? Your preferences will affect your overall budget and itinerary.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $96 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Fortunately, you can find plenty of hostels in Bonn, including Hostel 45, Jugendherberge Bonn, and BrauHotel Bonn. These hostels offer inexpensive dorm lodging and a lively social scene, but amenities are often minimal. Furthermore, the city is equipped with an excellent public transit system that aids budget travelers in avoiding costly taxis and rideshares.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Tourists visiting Bonn generally aim to explore the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $222 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Bonn. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Boutiquehotel Dreesen - Villa Godesberg is a good kid-friendly option, and Apartmenthotel Kaiser Karl Bonn is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Bonn here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you envision a trip that covers everything with high-end amenities and top-tier service, be ready for a daily expense near $444. Enjoying nicer hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, participating in extravagant activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the city will require a premium budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Self Guided Secrets of Bonn Exploration Game - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Bonn
The range of hotel prices in Bonn can be pretty surprising. Luxury hotels tend to offer more amenities, but come with higher price tags, especially during peak season. The average off-season room is $80, but during peak summer season the average price can reach $149. From $61 for budget hotels to $205 for luxury, there's something for everyone. Hostels are cheaper, especially dorms. Book early or travel during the off-season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Bonn for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $200 (€170). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $100 (€85) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Bonn? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Bonn include:
- Boutiquehotel Dreesen - Villa Godesberg starting at $120
- Apartmenthotel Kaiser Karl Bonn starting at $100
- Ringhotel Rheinhotel Dreesen starting at $88
- V-Hotel Bonn starting at $82
- IntercityHotel Bonn starting at $63
Bonn has a great public transit system lets you stay farther from the city, but remember that lower hotel costs could mean higher transportation expenses.
When visiting Bonn with your family, look for an apartment or accommodation that offers more space to keep everyone comfortable.
By traveling in the off-peak times like the low or shoulder season, and steering clear of summer, you'll find cheaper lodging and smaller crowds.
Many people like to wander through Bonn, so it's a good idea to book a place in the center. Keep in mind that this could come with an increased cost.
The city's old town is a big hit with travelers. Hotels in this part of town might be more expensive, yet they often come with plenty of character and great proximity to everything.
Transportation Budget in Bonn
Getting around Bonn is easy thanks to its excellent public transportation. 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. For an affordable and speedy option, public transit is your best bet, though taxis and rideshares are available for added convenience.
Visitors who like to stroll and explore will truly enjoy their time here. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $26 (€23) per person, per day, on local transportation in Bonn. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Bonn is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$26
€23
The city center is generally small and compact, so you'll likely spend most of your time walking around. If you're hoping to venture further out, or the weather is less than ideal, then the city does have an excellent bus, tram and subway system. It is operated by the local organization, Stadtwerke Bonn, and there are ticket offices and machines at each of the major stations. You can purchase tickets as either single passes, multiple passes, 24 hour passes, or weekly passes. The tickets can be used on the local trains, subway, tram and bus systems. If you're interested in biking, then this is possible as well. You can rent a bike at the train station from Deutsche Bahn on platform 1 or from the Radstation directly behind the train station.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Bonn hotels Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer for $78 details
How much does it cost to go to Bonn? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Bonn will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Bonn
Cuisine in Bonn is good, but it's not well known enough to draw in tourists for the restaurant scene. Still, there are a handful of excellent dining spots in the city to discover. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Bonn can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Bonn is $99 (€84) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$99
€84
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Bonn is around $99 (€84) per person, with previous travelers spending from $42 to $202. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Bonn are as follows:
- Breakfast: $10 to $30
- Lunch: $15 to $40
- Dinner: $30 to $69
- Coffee: $8
- Fast Food or Street Food: $15
There are some great eating options throughout Bonn, and it is usually easy to find a meal on a budget, just go where the students eat. Student cafeterias offer cheap and healthy meals and sandwiches. The Main University Building in the city center is where you'll find the best options. Mensa is the official student canteen and they sell several dishes that are reasonably good for the price. There's also a good salad bar. They offer meals to non-students at a slightly raised price.
The bakeries in Bonn are some of the best you'll find. Germany has some wonderful bread, and in Bonn it is particularly good. You'll also find some great desserts around town as well. There are also some great cafes where you can buy sandwiches for cheap. Also make sure you check out some of the area's beer gardens, because, after all, this is Germany.
When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.
A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Bring a water bottle to avoid frequent drink purchases. It's also a sustainable choice.
Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Bonn
The appeal of Bonn is evident, thanks to its family-friendly activities, museums and attractions, historical sights, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Bonn typically cost an average of $40 (€34) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$40
€34
Bonn has a good tourist information office that can give you maps and sell you tickets to shows. They also offer information on the many sights around town, which include Das Bonner Munster, which is a beautiful basilica, Kreuzbergkirche, which is a nice church, Poppelsdorfer Schloss and Botanical Gardens, Alter Friedhof, a historic cemetary, and Sudstadt, with many impressive buildings. Some interesting museums in the area are Beethoven-Haus, August Macke Haus, and Haus der Geschichte.
If your timing is right you might find yourself in Bonn during one of it's many festivals. Karneval, in February, is popular for its parades and festivities. Rhein in Flammen is a large fireworks display over the Rhine that takes place in May. Beethovenfest is a month long music festival that's held in September. Putzchens Markt is a fair in the city's suburbs that lasts for five days and the Christmas Market starts at the end of November and offers booths that sell all kinds of things.
Museums and Attractions:
Bonn is celebrated for its prestigious museums and historical landmarks. 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.
Historical Sights:
The charming old town is a magnet for tourists. 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.
Shopping:
Be sure to enjoy the shopping here, as it's an experience you won't forget. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Bonn. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide for $274 details
- Bonn Christmas Market Tour With A Professional Guide for $247 details
- Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour for $6 details
Nightlife Budget in Bonn
Bonn does have some nightlife activities, but it doesn't compare to the excitement found in more popular destinations. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $27 (€23) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Bonn per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$27
€23
The nightlife is always tempting, but cutting down on drinks is an effective way to manage your travel spending.
When drinking at night, be mindful of your surroundings, as pickpockets and other crimes can happen. Stay safe by sticking with a group of trusted people.
Travel cost data last updated: Aug 5, 2025
Traveling in Bonn
Bonn, Germany
Bonn was the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany (previously, West Germany) and it has a population of about 315,000 people. It sits on the Rhine River just twenty kilometers away from Cologne. Many people travel to Bonn for conferences and business, but Bonn also has a lot of cultural and historical sights to offer visitors. The city is also famous as the birth place of Ludwig van Beethoven. There's a strong student culture in the city as well, and it actually shares many characteristics with Italian cities because of its many cafes and restaurants which line the streets. Outdoor beer gardens are popular and Bonn is a particular good summer destination when the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the outdoor setting. The city's location also makes it a great base for day trips to Cologne, Dusseldorf, and the Rhine and Eifel regions.
Bonn has an oceanic climate. Because it is located only a few kilometers to the south of the Cologne Basin Valley, it is part of one of the country's warmest regions along the Rhine River.
Neighborhoods & Around
Notable neighborhoods in Bonn include the city center, Beuel, Endenich and Ippendorf, Bonn Altstadt, Poppelsdorf, Muffendorf and Schweinheim, and Bad Godesberg. The city center has a pedestrian area with a lot of shops. There's also a weekly market, many pubs and restaurants and some important historic sights. Beuel is to the east of the Rhine and connects to the city center with the Kennedy Bridge. Endenich and Ippendorf is where composer Robert Schumann once lived. The Bonn city forest is in Ippendorf and there is a children's area with animals and plants. Bonn Altstadt, or the Old Town, has an urban atmosphere. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants and many art exhibits. There are also museums, historic sights, parks, and a large flea market that is held once a month. Poppelsdorf is a classical district with lots of art nouveau houses, the Poppeldorfer Castle, Botanical Gardens, cafes and restaurants. Bad Godesberg is a famous health resort and spa, but there is much more to the area than that.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
Bonn's great for budget travelers because the train system is excellent. It's conveniently connected to other towns like Cologne and Dusseldorf.