A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Cologne vs. Berlin for Attractions, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Cologne or Berlin?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Berlin? 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. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Berlin

Berlin is a creative, eclectic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Cologne and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Berlin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berlin than Cologne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Berlin is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cologne is known for its historical sights, christmas markets, and impressive beauty. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Berlin is popular for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also home to the Brandenburg Gate.

How is Cologne different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Berlin 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 Berlin on the map. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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 Berlin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berlin 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 Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

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 Berlin Better for Nightlife?

Berlin is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Berlin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Many people head to Cologne for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Cologne or Berlin Better for Music?

Berlin is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

In Berlin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Berlin Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Cologne. 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.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Berlin?

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

Berlin is a world class destination for shoppers. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

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 Berlin Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Berlin Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Berlin Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Berlin.

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.

Berlin is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is Cologne or Berlin Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Berlin make for a good 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.

Berlin is a nice destination for couples. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Cologne or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berlin is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

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 Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Berlin. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university 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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Cologne and Berlin.

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.

Berlin has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Is Cologne or Berlin a more walkable city?

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

Cologne is a very walkable city. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Berlin?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin 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 Berlin.

One day in Cologne or Berlin?

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

In Berlin, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Berlin?

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 Berlin, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Berlin has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Berlin?

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.

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berlin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cologne or Berlin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible 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 Berlin. In Berlin, you'll find live music and food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Germany, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Munich.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Berlin?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Berlin, 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 Berlin?

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 Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin 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 Berlin in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Berlin. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Berlin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Berlin. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Berlin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Berlin. 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 Berlin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Cologne is a little warmer than Berlin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Berlin fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Cologne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives more rain than Berlin. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Berlin. 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 Berlin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Berlin can be very cold. Cologne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cologne is much warmer than Berlin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Berlin averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in January than Berlin. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Berlin in the Spring?

Both Berlin 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 Berlin this time of year.

In April, Cologne is generally a little warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Cologne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives more rain than Berlin. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Cologne