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

Should you visit Cologne or Budapest?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Budapest? 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.

Budapest

Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Cologne and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Budapest?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cologne than Budapest. While Budapest is larger than Cologne, Cologne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cologne is more popular for its food and christmas markets, while Budapest is known for its historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty. 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. Budapest is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Cologne is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cologne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Cologne or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Cologne or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

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 Budapest?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Budapest 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 Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Cologne or Budapest Better for Christmas?

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

With so many activities, Cologne is a top place to visit during 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.

Budapest does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Budapest Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Budapest does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Budapest Better for Families?

Cologne is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Cologne or Budapest Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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 Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Budapest is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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 Budapest 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 Budapest.

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.

Budapest has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Cologne or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Budapest?

In either Cologne or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

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

One day in Cologne or Budapest?

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 Budapest, you'll find museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest, you'll find nightlife 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Budapest?

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.

Budapest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cologne or Budapest?

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 Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest and Cologne during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Budapest. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Budapest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cologne is around the same temperature as Budapest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives more rain than Budapest. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Budapest in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Budapest. Many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Budapest can be very cold during winter. Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cologne is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Budapest averages at about -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Budapest because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives more rain than Budapest. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Cologne