A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Cologne for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Old Town

Should you visit Amsterdam or Cologne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Cologne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a scenic, historic, and canal-lined city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Cologne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Cologne. While Cologne is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cologne is known for its food and christmas markets. Amsterdam is more touristy than Cologne and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Amsterdam different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Cologne?

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Cologne.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cologne. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.

Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cologne. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Amsterdam is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Many people head to Cologne for the nightlife scene. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

In Amsterdam you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Cologne is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Cologne?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cologne and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cologne. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Cologne is not to be missed. Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas markets. However, Amsterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in Cologne. Cologne is one of the top Christmas market destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly city. In addition to the stunning cathedral and impressive bridge, this city has many great playgrounds including Rheinpark, right across the river from old town. Kids who like high places will enjoy the view from the top of KölnTriangle. Popular kid-friendly museums in town include Odysseum and the Chocolate Museum. And if you have a day to spare, head to the indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is well known for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Cologne is a nice destination for couples. The city has a number of activities that couples will enjoy such as walks along the river, dining at nice restaurants, and Rhein River cruises. Also make sure you put a lock on the Hohenzollern Bridge to declare your commitment to each other.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Cologne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Cologne is a great city to visit as a student. The city is large enough to attract international students for all types of studies. It's also well connected to the German train system so it's easy to get out and explore the area.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Amsterdam and Cologne.

Visitors in Amsterdam can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Cologne has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.

Is Amsterdam or Cologne a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Cologne is very walkable. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Cologne. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cologne, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Cologne 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Cologne?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cologne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Cologne?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Amsterdam has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun big city of Cologne. 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 Amsterdam or Cologne?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Cologne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Cologne, 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 Amsterdam or Cologne?

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 Amsterdam or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Amsterdam is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Cologne. The winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. Amsterdam is cooler than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Cologne. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Cologne. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Amsterdam is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cologne. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Amsterdam