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

Should you visit Chania or Cologne?

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

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

Chania

Chania is a charming, picturesque, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chania and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Cologne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Cologne. While Cologne is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is very popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and hiking, while Cologne attracts visitors for its nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Chania is famous for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also well known for The Venetian Harbor. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Chania different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chania or Cologne.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Chania can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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

Chania 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, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

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 Chania or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Chania has a few options to choose from. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Is Chania or Cologne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Chania has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Chania is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Chania. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Chania is well known for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chania. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

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 Chania or Cologne Better for Hiking?

Chania is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Cologne?

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

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chania. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Is Chania or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Chania 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.

Chania does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chania or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Chania 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.

Chania does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Chania or Cologne Better for Families?

Chania and Cologne are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Chania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

Cologne is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Chania or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

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 Chania or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

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 Chania or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Chania is not popular with students.

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.

Chania is not popular with students.

Is Chania 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, Chania 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 Chania offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Is Chania or Cologne a more walkable city?

Chania and Cologne both are very good when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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 Chania Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Chania?

How long in Chania or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chania and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chania than in Cologne. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

Families should spend more time in Chania than Cologne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chania, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Chania or Cologne?

In Chania, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Chania or Cologne?

In Chania, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Chania or Cologne?

Chania is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Chania or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Chania. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania 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 Chania 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 Chania or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, 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.

Chania is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Cologne. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Chania during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, 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.

In the autumn, Chania is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chania in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Cologne. The winter months attract visitors to Chania because of the museums, 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. In January, Chania is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 12°C (54°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Cologne. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chania as well as Cologne. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Chania is much warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Chania