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

Should you visit Cologne or Glencoe?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Glencoe? 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.

Glencoe

Glencoe is a beautiful, picturesque, and natural village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Cologne and Glencoe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Glencoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne. Although Cologne and Glencoe are popular destinations, Cologne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cologne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Glencoe attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Glencoe and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also well known for The Cologne Cathedral. Glencoe is famous for its mountaineering, hiking, and beautiful natural setting.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Glencoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cologne is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Cologne and Glencoe 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 Glencoe. Local specialties include seafood and pub food. You'll also find plenty of whisky and local beer. There are a variety of dining options with local pubs alongside fine dining restaurants.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for its evening party scene. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Glencoe doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a handful of bars where you can relax with local whisky or beer.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe does not have a historic old town.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Hiking?

Glencoe is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Glencoe. The area has dramatic hikes and stunning landscapes. Some of the best walks through the countryside include Inchree Falls, Grey Mare's Tail & Mamore Lodge, and The Two Lairigs.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Glencoe?

Cologne is well known for its shopping areas. However, Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Glencoe does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Cologne is not to be missed. 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.

Glencoe does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas markets. However, Glencoe does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel from around the world to visit the Christmas markets in Cologne. 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.

Glencoe does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Glencoe.

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.

Glencoe is a very family-friendly destination. Take a steam train along the Harry Potter Line. You'll feel like you're aboard the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit the Natural History Center, hike around the Glencoe National Nature Center, or visit the Glencoe Folk Museum.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Glencoe frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature, hiking, and stunning scenery will enjoy a visit to this beautiful area.

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 Glencoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cologne is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Glencoe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It can be challenging to reach without a car and the surrounding countryside also requires a vehicle. There is some great camping available in the area.

Is Cologne or Glencoe Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Glencoe is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Glencoe is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Glencoe. There are local buses, but it's much easier to make the most of your visit if you have a vehicle.

Is Cologne or Glencoe a more walkable city?

Cologne is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for its walkability.

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.

Glencoe is generally not a very walkable city. It's easier to fully experience the area if you have your own vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Glencoe or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Glencoe?

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

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

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

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 Glencoe, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cologne or Glencoe?

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 Glencoe, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glencoe has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Glencoe?

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.

Glencoe is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Glencoe?

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 Glencoe. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Glencoe. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.

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

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