A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cologne vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Aix-en-Provence? 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.

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.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a laid-back, relaxing, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Cologne and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Aix-en-Provence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known 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. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

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

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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Is the Food Better in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aix-en-Provence 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, Aix-en-Provence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

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 Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known 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.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Cologne offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Aix-en-Provence is a world class destination for shoppers. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Aix-en-Provence 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.

Aix-en-Provence does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas markets. However, Aix-en-Provence does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Cologne are not to be missed. 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.

Aix-en-Provence does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is known to be 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.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence is well known for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

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 Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Aix-en-Provence are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Aix-en-Provence is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Cologne and Aix-en-Provence are very good places to visit for 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.

Aix-en-Provence is very popular with students. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cologne is terrific for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Cologne can take you anywhere. 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 Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Cologne or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Cologne and Aix-en-Provence both are very good when exploring on foot.

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.

Aix-en-Provence is very walkable. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cologne Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Cologne or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Aix-en-Provence. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cologne than Aix-en-Provence 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 Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Cologne is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Cologne is a big city with plenty to do. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Aix-en-Provence, 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 Aix-en-Provence has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Cologne is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence 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 Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Aix-en-Provence. 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 Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Cologne or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Cologne or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Cologne is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cologne is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cologne can be very cold during winter. In January, Cologne is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Aix-en-Provence. The spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

Cologne is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Cologne