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

Should you visit Cologne or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Bordeaux? 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. 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Bordeaux, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Bordeaux is known for its food and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Cologne and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cologne is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

Bordeaux 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, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Cologne know how to have a good time. 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 Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Cologne and Bordeaux.

Cologne offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Bordeaux is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Bordeaux?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bordeaux and Cologne.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Bordeaux does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Bordeaux does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Bordeaux does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to Cologne specifically for the 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.

Bordeaux does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Cologne is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

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 Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Bordeaux are good 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Cologne and Bordeaux are high quality 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.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Cologne can get you around easily. 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Is Cologne or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Cologne and Bordeaux both are high quality 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.

Bordeaux is very walkable. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Bordeaux?

In either Cologne or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Cologne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Bordeaux. 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.

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

Cologne is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the 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 Bordeaux?

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Bordeaux has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Bordeaux?

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cologne or Bordeaux?

Cologne is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Bordeaux?

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

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

In July, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cologne is cooler than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Bordeaux. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Bordeaux. Many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. In the winter, Cologne is much colder than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Bordeaux. Many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cologne is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Bordeaux. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Cologne