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

Should you visit Cologne or Arles?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Arles? 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.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Arles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Arles 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. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Arles 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 Arles on the map. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

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 Cologne or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arles is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

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 Arles Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles 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 Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Cologne or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Arles offers plenty to see. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

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 the Shopping Better in Cologne or Arles?

Cologne is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles 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 Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Cologne or Arles Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Arles 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.

Arles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Arles Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas markets. However, Arles does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in Cologne. 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.

Arles does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Arles Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles 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, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Cologne or Arles Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this 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 Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for 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.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Cologne or Arles Better for Students?

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

Cologne is very popular with students. 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.

Arles is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors in Cologne can get around quickly with the extensive 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.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Cologne or Arles a more walkable city?

Cologne and Arles both are great 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.

Arles is very walkable. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Arles or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cologne or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cologne than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Cologne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cologne or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Arles has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Arles?

Cologne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Cologne. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun big city of Cologne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Cologne and Arles, 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 Cologne Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Arles?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Arles, 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 Arles?

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 Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Cologne 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 Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Arles. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Arles. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Arles. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Arles. Many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cologne is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Arles. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Arles in the Spring?

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

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Arles. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Arles. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arles and Cologne