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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. 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.

Bucharest and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Cologne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cologne than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Cologne, Cologne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cologne is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Bucharest different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Bucharest and Cologne.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Cologne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Bucharest or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Cologne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the good old town areas in both Bucharest and Cologne.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Cologne has an old town worth visiting. 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 Bucharest or Cologne?

Cologne is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Cologne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is renowned for its Christmas markets. However, Bucharest does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel to Cologne specifically to enjoy its famous 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.

Bucharest does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest 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, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for Couples?

Cologne is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Cologne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest and Cologne are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

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

Is Bucharest or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is renowned for its public transit. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Cologne has a great 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.

Bucharest offers a very effecient public transportation network. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Is Bucharest or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Cologne?

In Bucharest, 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.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. 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 Bucharest or Cologne?

In Bucharest, 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 Bucharest has to offer.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. 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 Bucharest or Cologne?

Bucharest 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful 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 Bucharest or Cologne?

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

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Cologne?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bucharest is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bucharest in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Cologne. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Bucharest during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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 October, Bucharest is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 13°C (55°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Cologne. Many visitors come to Bucharest 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. Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. Bucharest is much colder than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around -1°C (29°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Cologne. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bucharest is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bucharest in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Bucharest