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

Should you visit Cologne or Amalfi?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Amalfi? 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. 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.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a charming, picturesque, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cologne and Amalfi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Amalfi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amalfi. Although Cologne and Amalfi are both popular with visitors, Amalfi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amalfi is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cologne is known for its museums, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities. Amalfi is more touristy than Cologne and is known for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. It is also home to the dramatic coastline. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Cologne different from Amalfi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Amalfi 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 Amalfi?

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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

Amalfi 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, Amalfi is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around 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 Amalfi Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Cologne and Amalfi.

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.

Many people head to Amalfi for the nightlife scene. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Amalfi has a few good snorkeling spots. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Beaches?

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

Amalfi is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for its Old Town?

Amalfi 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 Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

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 Cologne or Amalfi Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Amalfi. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Amalfi?

Cologne is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi 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.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Amalfi 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.

Amalfi does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Amalfi does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful 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.

Amalfi does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Couples?

Amalfi is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Amalfi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

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 Amalfi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

Is Cologne or Amalfi Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Cologne is top-notch. 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 Amalfi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

Is Cologne or Amalfi a more walkable city?

Amalfi 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 Amalfi on foot is easy. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore 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 Cologne Worth Visiting? and Is Amalfi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amalfi or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Amalfi?

Both Cologne and Amalfi have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amalfi than in Cologne. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amalfi.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cologne than Amalfi 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 Amalfi?

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

In Amalfi, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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 Amalfi?

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.

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

Five days in Cologne or Amalfi?

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.

Amalfi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amalfi has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cologne or Amalfi?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amalfi. In Amalfi, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cologne and Amalfi, we can see that Amalfi is more expensive. And not only is Cologne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cologne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cologne 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 Amalfi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amalfi than you might in Cologne.

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Amalfi?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Amalfi, 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 Amalfi?

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 Amalfi in the Summer?

Both Amalfi and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Amalfi for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Amalfi. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Amalfi. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Amalfi in the Autumn?

Both Amalfi and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Amalfi because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cologne is cooler than Amalfi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Amalfi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Amalfi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Amalfi. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Amalfi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Amalfi. The winter months attract visitors to Cologne because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year.

The weather in Cologne can be very cold. In the winter, Cologne is much colder than Amalfi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Amalfi averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Amalfi during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Amalfi receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Amalfi receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Amalfi. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Amalfi in the Spring?

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

In April, Cologne is generally cooler than Amalfi. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Amalfi fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Amalfi. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amalfi receives 189 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Amalfi. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Amalfi receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amalfi and Cologne