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

Should you visit Belfast or Cologne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and shopping.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Belfast and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Belfast. Cologne is bigger than Belfast, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is more touristy than Belfast and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Also, Cologne is famous for The Cologne Cathedral. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Belfast different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cologne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Cologne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Cologne offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Cologne?

Cologne is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Cologne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Christmas?

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

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. 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.

Belfast does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas markets. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Couples?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Cologne can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Belfast and Cologne. In our opinion, Cologne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cologne than Belfast. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Belfast or Cologne?

In Belfast, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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.

Because Cologne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Belfast or Cologne?

In Belfast, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Belfast has to offer.

Because Cologne 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 Cologne has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Cologne?

Belfast 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.

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 Belfast or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Belfast. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Belfast or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Cologne. Many visitors come to Belfast in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Belfast is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 15°C (59°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Cologne during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives less rain than Cologne. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Belfast or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene 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.

Belfast is cooler than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Cologne. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Belfast because of 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 Belfast can be very cold. In the winter, Belfast is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Belfast in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Belfast usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives more rain than Cologne. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Belfast or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Belfast during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Belfast is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 8°C (46°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Belfast often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Belfast gets 50 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 Belfast