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

Should you visit Bruges or Cologne?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Cologne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a cultural, beautiful, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a accessible, vibrant, and colorful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Bruges. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Bruges attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Cologne and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also well known for The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Bruges different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Cologne and Bruges.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Cologne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Bruges or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bruges is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Bruges is an experience not to be missed. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

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 Bruges or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is great for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Bruges or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Bruges offers plenty to see. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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 Bruges or Cologne?

Cologne is great for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Bruges or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Bruges does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Cologne is a top place to visit during Christmas. 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.

Bruges does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bruges or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Bruges does not offer Christmas markets.

Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. 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.

Bruges does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Bruges or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cologne. 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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Bruges frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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 Bruges or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is well known for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bruges is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

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 Bruges or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Cologne has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Bruges or Cologne a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and 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 Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Bruges or Cologne?

In Bruges, 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.

Cologne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bruges or Cologne?

In Bruges, 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 Bruges has to offer.

Cologne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Cologne?

Bruges 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant big city of Cologne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bruges and Cologne, we can see that Cologne is more expensive. And not only is Bruges much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bruges would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bruges 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 Bruges.

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges 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 Bruges or Cologne?

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.

Should I visit Bruges or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Cologne. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bruges is around the same temperature as Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bruges this time of the year. In the summer, Bruges often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bruges is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bruges in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Bruges usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bruges usually receives more rain than Cologne. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bruges or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Bruges during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bruges in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cologne can be very cold during winter. Bruges can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Bruges is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 3°C (38°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cologne. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Cologne. Most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bruges is cooler than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Bruges usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives less rain than Cologne. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Bruges