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

Should you visit Cologne or Bari?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Bari? 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.

Bari

Bari is a cultural, authentic, and local port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cologne and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Bari?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Bari. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bari attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and historical sights. Cologne is more touristy than Bari 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. Bari is famous for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Cologne or Bari.

Cologne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Bari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Bari 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, Bari is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Bari for the nightlife scene. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Beaches?

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

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Bari 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 Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

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 Bari?

Cologne is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Bari 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.

Bari does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Bari does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Bari.

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.

Bari is a very family-friendly destination. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Bari 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bari is well known for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bari is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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.

Is Cologne or Bari Better for Students?

Cologne and Bari are superb 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.

Bari is very popular with students. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Is Cologne or Bari 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. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Cologne or Bari a more walkable city?

Cologne and Bari both are superb 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.

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Bari?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cologne and Bari. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Bari than Cologne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bari, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cologne than Bari. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bari than Cologne 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 Bari.

One day in Cologne or Bari?

Cologne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bari, 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 food. This port city 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 Bari?

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Bari, 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 food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Cologne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bari 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 Bari?

The vibrant city of Cologne offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bari. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Bari?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Cologne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cologne is cooler than Bari in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Bari. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Bari. 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. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the autumn, Cologne is much colder than Bari. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Bari averages at about 18°C (65°F).

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

In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Bari. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Bari. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bari 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 Bari. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Bari. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bari. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Cologne is cooler than Bari in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives more rain than Bari. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Cologne