A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Cologne vs. Hannover for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Cologne or Hannover?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Hannover? 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hannover

Hannover is a dynamic, diverse, and vibrant 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 Hannover: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Hannover?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Hannover. Cologne is bigger than Hannover, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is more touristy than Hannover and is popular 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. Hannover is well known for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Hannover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cologne is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Hannover offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Cologne and Hannover 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 Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Hannover for the nightlife scene. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Cologne and Hannover.

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.

Hannover is a good destination for visiting its old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Hannover?

Cologne is a great city for shopping. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Hannover offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Hannover does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Cologne. 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.

Hannover does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Hannover 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.

Hannover does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Families?

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

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.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Hannover make for a notable 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.

Hannover is a nice destination for couples. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Hannover 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.

Hannover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

Is Cologne or Hannover Better for Students?

Cologne and Hannover are superb places to visit for students.

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Hannover is very popular with students. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

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

Cologne is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Cologne has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

Hannover has some very good public transit options. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.

Is Cologne or Hannover a more walkable city?

Cologne and Hannover 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.

Hannover is very walkable. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Hannover or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Hannover?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cologne or Hannover to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cologne than Hannover because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Hannover.

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Hannover. 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 Hannover. 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 Hannover 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

A weekend in Cologne or Hannover?

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 Hannover, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Hannover has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Hannover?

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.

Hannover 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.

A week in Cologne or Hannover?

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 Hannover. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hannover. 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 Hannover, 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 Hannover Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Hannover?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Hannover. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Hannover, 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover in the Summer?

Both Hannover and Cologne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hannover because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cologne is around the same temperature as Hannover. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cologne in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Hannover averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In the summer, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 198 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Hannover. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Hannover in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Hannover. 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 Hannover this time of year.

In October, Cologne is generally a little warmer than Hannover. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 12°C (54°F), and Hannover fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Cologne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives more rain than Hannover. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Hannover in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Hannover. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hannover for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hannover. It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. Cologne is much warmer than Hannover in the winter. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Hannover fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 42 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in January than Hannover. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Hannover in the Spring?

Both Hannover and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hannover in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cologne is a little warmer than Hannover. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cologne in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Hannover averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cologne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives more rain than Hannover. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hannover and Cologne