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

Should you visit Cologne or Atlanta?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Atlanta? 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 accessible, vibrant, and colorful 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a cultural, diverse, and sprawling city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Atlanta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Atlanta. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its historical sights, christmas markets, and impressive beauty, while Atlanta attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Cologne is more touristy than Atlanta 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. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta 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 Atlanta on the map. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

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 Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta 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 Atlanta is an experience not to be missed. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

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 Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Atlanta for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is Cologne or Atlanta Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta 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.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Atlanta?

Atlanta is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Atlanta is a world class destination for shoppers. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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 Atlanta Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Atlanta does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Cologne. 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.

Atlanta does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Atlanta Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Atlanta 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.

Atlanta does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Atlanta Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Atlanta.

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.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly destination. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Cologne or Atlanta Better for Couples?

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

Cologne is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Cologne or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Atlanta 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.

Atlanta is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Cologne or Atlanta Better for Students?

Cologne and Atlanta 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.

Atlanta is very popular with students. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

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

Cologne is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Cologne or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Cologne is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

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

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either Cologne or Atlanta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Atlanta 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 Atlanta.

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

One day in Cologne or Atlanta?

Because Cologne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Atlanta, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Atlanta?

Because Cologne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Cologne has to offer.

In Atlanta, 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 Atlanta has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Atlanta?

Cologne 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.

Atlanta 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 Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atlanta. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cologne and Atlanta, we can see that Atlanta 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. Even though Cologne is in Europe and Atlanta is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Atlanta?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Atlanta, 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 Atlanta?

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 Cologne or Atlanta in the Summer?

Both Atlanta and Cologne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Atlanta in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Cologne is cooler than Atlanta in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Atlanta fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 271 hours of full sun.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in July than Atlanta. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Atlanta in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Atlanta. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Cologne is much colder than Atlanta. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Atlanta averages at about 66°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Atlanta in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Atlanta. Most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Atlanta 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 Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Atlanta fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Atlanta. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlanta receives 164 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. Cologne usually gets less rain in January than Atlanta. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Atlanta in the Spring?

Both Atlanta and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year.

Cologne is much colder than Atlanta in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Atlanta fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlanta. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Atlanta during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Atlanta receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. In April, Cologne usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Cologne