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

Should you visit Cologne or Avignon?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Avignon? 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 colorful, fun, and accessible 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Avignon

Avignon is a charming, scenic, and picturesque town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Cologne and Avignon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Avignon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Avignon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Avignon attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Cologne is famous 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. Avignon is famous for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Avignon 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 Avignon on the map. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Avignon 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, Avignon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity 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 Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Cologne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Cologne or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Avignon 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, Avignon offers plenty to see. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

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 Avignon?

Cologne is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Cologne or Avignon Better for Christmas?

Cologne is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Avignon does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. 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.

Avignon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Avignon Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is renowned for visiting Christmas markets. However, Avignon does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel to Cologne specifically to enjoy its famous 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.

Avignon does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Avignon Better for Families?

Cologne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cologne. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Cologne or Avignon Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

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 Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Avignon 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.

Avignon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Cologne or Avignon Better for Students?

Cologne is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Avignon is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Cologne has a great 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.

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Cologne or Avignon a more walkable city?

Avignon 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 Avignon on foot is easy. There's almost no traffic in the city center 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 Avignon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cologne or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cologne than Avignon 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 Avignon.

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

One day in Cologne or Avignon?

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.

Avignon is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Avignon?

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.

Avignon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Avignon has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Avignon?

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.

Avignon 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 Avignon?

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 Avignon. Since Avignon is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cologne and Avignon, we can see that Avignon 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 Avignon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avignon 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 Avignon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Avignon?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Avignon, 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 Avignon?

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 Avignon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Avignon. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Avignon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Avignon. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Avignon in the Autumn?

Both Avignon and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

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

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Avignon. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Avignon in the Winter?

Both Avignon and Cologne during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in January than Avignon. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Avignon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Avignon. Many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Avignon in the spring for the small town charm.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Avignon this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Avignon. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Avignon and Cologne