A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Cologne vs. Dusseldorf for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Cologne or Dusseldorf?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Dusseldorf? 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a cultural, vibrant, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Dusseldorf?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Dusseldorf. Cologne is bigger than Dusseldorf, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dusseldorf is more popular for its food and historical sights. Cologne is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Also, Cologne is famous for The Cologne Cathedral. Dusseldorf is well known for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cologne. 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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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 Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

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 Dusseldorf?

Cologne is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cologne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Dusseldorf does not offer Christmas markets.

Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. 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.

Dusseldorf does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Dusseldorf.

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.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly destination. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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 Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Dusseldorf are notable 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.

Dusseldorf is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Cologne is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Many students visit Cologne. 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.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf.

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.

Dusseldorf has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Is Cologne or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Cologne and Dusseldorf both are superb 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.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cologne and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Cologne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cologne than Dusseldorf. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

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

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

When visiting Cologne, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, one day is sufficent for most.

In Dusseldorf, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Dusseldorf?

When visiting Cologne, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Dusseldorf, you'll find food 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 Dusseldorf has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Dusseldorf?

Cologne, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Cologne or Dusseldorf?

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dusseldorf. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dusseldorf. 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 Tours for Seniors to Germany, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Munich.

When comparing the travel costs between Cologne and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Dusseldorf?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Dusseldorf. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

Both Dusseldorf and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cologne is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cologne in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Cologne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

Both Dusseldorf and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

In October, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 12°C (54°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Dusseldorf. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Cologne or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Dusseldorf. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dusseldorf. It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. Cologne is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf in the winter. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Cologne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Dusseldorf. Many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cologne is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cologne in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dusseldorf. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Cologne