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

Should you visit Cologne or Dublin?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Dublin? 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Cologne and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Dublin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne. Although Cologne and Dublin are both popular with visitors, Cologne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dublin is known for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. 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. Dublin is popular for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Dublin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Cologne and Dublin can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cologne area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Cologne or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Dublin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is well known for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Dublin 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 Dublin. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

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 Dublin?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dublin 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 Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Cologne or Dublin Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Dublin Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas markets. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Dublin Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Dublin.

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.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Cologne or Dublin Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway 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 Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Dublin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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 Dublin Better for Students?

Cologne is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Cologne is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

Cologne is terrific for its public transit. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Cologne or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Dublin?

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

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

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

One day in Cologne or Dublin?

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

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Dublin?

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

Five days in Cologne or Dublin?

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.

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

A week in Cologne or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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 Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Cologne and Dublin, we can see that Cologne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cologne is generally a little warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Cologne usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Dublin. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Dublin in the Autumn?

Both Dublin and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Cologne is around the same temperature as Dublin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Dublin. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Dublin. Most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dublin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cologne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cologne is much colder than Dublin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Dublin averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Dublin. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Dublin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Dublin. The spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In April, Cologne is generally a little warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in April than Dublin. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Cologne