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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Cologne?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cologne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a impressive, spectacular, and iconic destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and beaches.

Cologne

Cologne is a colorful, fun, and accessible 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Cape Sounion and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne. Although Cape Sounion and Cologne are popular destinations, Cologne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cologne is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Cape Sounion attracts visitors for its museums and beaches. Cologne is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is popular 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. Cape Sounion is famous for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

The Cologne Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cape Sounion different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion on the map. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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 Cape Sounion or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Both Cape Sounion and Cologne offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Sounion is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

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.

Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Cologne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cape Sounion is a popular place for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Cape Sounion is a good option for a beach vacation. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Cologne is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

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.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

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

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Cologne draws large crowds. 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.

Cape Sounion does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

Is Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

With fun activities for couples, both Cape Sounion and Cologne make for a nice place to visit.

Cape Sounion is a good destination for couples to visit. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

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 Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cape Sounion and Cologne are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cape Sounion. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Cape Sounion or Cologne Better for Students?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

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

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.


Is Cape Sounion or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Cologne

Cologne is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Cologne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Cologne 1-3

One day in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

In Cape Sounion, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This destination offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Each neighborhood in Cologne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

In Cape Sounion, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Sounion has to offer.

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

Cape Sounion 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Cologne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cape Sounion or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Sounion. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Cologne is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Cologne or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Cologne is €161. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Sounion and Cologne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Cologne 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Cologne 182
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Cologne

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Cologne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Sounion


Hotels in Cologne


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cologne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Cologne 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cologne

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cologne:

  • Transfer from Cologne Airport CGN to Cologne City by Luxury Car: $83
  • Superior Private Transfer from Cologne City to Dortmund City: $64
  • Cologne hotels to Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Cologne hotels - Round-trip Private Transfer : $98
  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Bonn hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Bonn hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Cologne?

Prices for flights to both Cologne and Cape Sounion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Sounion 41
    Cologne 50

Typical Food Prices in Cologne

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cologne:


  • Dinner
    14
  • Donner Kebab
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cologne

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cologne.

  • Hard Rock Café with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Hard Rock Cafe Cologne With Set Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Köln Südstadt kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Südstadt Food Tour: $481

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Cologne 20

Tours and Activities in Cologne

Here are a few actual costs in Cologne for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 120min - Cologne City Tour: $158
  • 3-Hour Cologne Street Art Bike Tour in Small Group with Guide: $44
  • 3-Hour Murder Mystery Interactive City Walking Tour in Köln: $75
  • 5 Hours Cologne to Aachen Train Tour in Germany: $63
  • Aachen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $231
  • Aachen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Aachen Scavenger Hunt and Self Guided Walking Tour on your Phone: $7.63
  • Aachen old town tour - GERMAN (public): $13
  • Amusing Stories of Cologne Walking Tour: $13
  • Awesome Sites of Cologne – Private Family Walking Tour: $395
  • Beethoven and Bonn Highlights Tour from Cologne by Car: $840
  • Best of Cologne in 1-Day Private Guided Tour with Transport: $438

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Cologne 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Cologne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cologne:

  • Old Town Walking Tour with Brewery and Kölsch Beer: $18
  • Public brewery tour in Cologne in English: $18
  • Public brewery tour in German in Cologne: $18
  • Guided tour of the old town with a visit to the brewery in Cologne: $19
  • Old Town Walking Tour inkl Brewery Visit: $24
  • Entertaining Brewery Tour: Feel Good Package including local beer: $27
  • South Cologne Walking Tour with brewery visit: $27
  • Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots: $27
  • Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings: $29
  • Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting and Halven Hahn: $31
  • The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour: $32
  • The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour: $33


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 960 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Cape Sounion during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the summer, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Cologne 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Cologne. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cape Sounion is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Sounion in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Cologne. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Cologne 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Cologne. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cape Sounion is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 10°C (51°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in January than Cologne. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Cologne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Cape Sounion is much warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Cologne. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Cologne 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Cologne and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Cologne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)