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

Should you visit Cologne or Houston?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Houston? 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.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Cologne and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Houston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cologne than Houston. While Houston is larger than Cologne, Cologne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cologne is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and impressive beauty, while Houston is known for its music and big city activities. Cologne is more touristy than Houston and is known 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. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Cologne and Houston 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 Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a good destination for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Cologne to see the 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Houston?

Cologne is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Cologne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Houston 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.

Houston does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Houston does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to Cologne specifically for the 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.

Houston does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Houston.

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.

Houston is a very family-friendly destination. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Houston make for a good 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.

Houston is a nice destination for couples. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cologne or Houston Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Cologne can get you around easily. 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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Cologne or Houston a more walkable city?

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

Cologne is a very walkable city. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Houston?

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

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

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 Houston, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Houston?

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 Houston, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Houston has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Houston?

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.

Houston 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 Houston?

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 Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cologne and Houston, we can see that Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston 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 Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cologne is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In July, Cologne usually receives less rain than Houston. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

Cologne is much colder than Houston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Houston in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. In the winter, Cologne is much colder than Houston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Houston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Houston. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Houston in the Spring?

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

In April, Cologne is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Cologne