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

Should you visit Cologne or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Chicago? 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Cologne and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Cologne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Cologne attracts visitors for its historical sights and christmas markets. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Chicago is famous for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Cologne different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago 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 Chicago on the map. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Cologne or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Cologne is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Chicago draw crowds from around the world. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Cologne is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago 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, Chicago is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

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 Chicago Better for Music?

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

In Chicago you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for Beaches?

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

Chicago is a good option for a beach vacation. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago does not have a historic old town.

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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Chicago?

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

Chicago is a world class destination for shoppers. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago Better for Christmas?

Cologne is renowned for its Christmas activities. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its Christmas holiday experiences.

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.

Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is renowned for its Christmas markets. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for visiting 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.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Cologne is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Chicago 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Chicago 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.

Chicago is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Cologne or Chicago Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Chicago. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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 Chicago 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 Chicago.

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.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Is Cologne or Chicago a more walkable city?

Cologne and Chicago both are great 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.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Chicago?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cologne or Chicago?

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.

In Chicago, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Chicago?

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.

In Chicago, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cologne or Chicago?

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.

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

A week in Cologne or Chicago?

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 Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cologne and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Cologne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cologne is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Chicago?

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

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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cologne is cooler than Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In July, Cologne usually receives less rain than Chicago. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cologne is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Chicago. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Chicago. Many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Chicago can be very cold during winter. Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cologne is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives more rain than Chicago. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Cologne is cooler than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Cologne