A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Cologne for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Bangkok or Cologne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Cologne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a vibrant, high energy, and cultural capital city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bangkok and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Cologne?

Both Cologne and Bangkok have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Bangkok is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cologne is more popular for its historical sights and christmas markets. Bangkok is well known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. Cologne is well known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Bangkok different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Bangkok on the map. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

Many visitors head to Cologne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Bangkok or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Bangkok is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Is Bangkok or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Bangkok is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

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 Bangkok or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cologne to see the historical 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.

Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Cologne?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Bangkok is a world class destination for shoppers. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Bangkok or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Bangkok does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Bangkok does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bangkok or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Bangkok does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to Cologne specifically for the Christmas markets. 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.

Bangkok does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Bangkok or Cologne Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Cologne are excellent to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Bangkok or Cologne Better for Couples?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Bangkok makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

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 Bangkok or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Bangkok is a very popular capital city to visit for backpackers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

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 Bangkok or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Cologne. 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.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Cologne can get you around easily. 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.

While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Bangkok or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Bangkok or Cologne?

Because Bangkok is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This capital city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Cologne, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Bangkok or Cologne?

Because Bangkok 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer.

In Cologne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Cologne?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cologne is a great place to explore. 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 Bangkok or Cologne?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Cologne, we can see that Cologne is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bangkok is in Asia and Cologne 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 Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok 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 Cologne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cologne than you might in Bangkok.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Cologne?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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 Bangkok or Cologne?

Cologne has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bangkok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 29°C (84°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Cologne. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Bangkok during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Bangkok is much warmer than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Cologne. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Cologne because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Cologne can be very cold. In the winter, Bangkok is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bangkok in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Cologne. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Cologne. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In April, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 31°C (87°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets more rain in April than Cologne. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Bangkok