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

Should you visit Cologne or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Kotor? 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.

Kotor

Kotor is a peaceful, remote, and dramatic coastal town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and food.

Cologne and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cologne than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cologne is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cologne is more touristy than Kotor 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. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Cologne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Kotor is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

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 Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a coastal town with a few options for its resorts. However, Cologne is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Kotor as a resort destination, but it has a few places. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Cologne is not a resort destination.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few good snorkeling spots. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a popular place for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Kotor is a good option for a beach vacation. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kotor offers plenty to see. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

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 Cologne or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kotor specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Kotor?

Cologne is well known for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Christmas?

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

Kotor does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Kotor 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.

Kotor does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is 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.

Kotor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is Cologne or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

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 Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kotor is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

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 Kotor Better for Students?

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

Cologne is very popular with students. 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.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Kotor 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 Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is Cologne or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor 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 Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored 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 Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Cologne or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

One day in Cologne or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Cologne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Kotor is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal town 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 Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cologne or Kotor?

Cologne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Cologne. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor 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 Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the accessible big city of Cologne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Kotor?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Kotor, 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 Kotor?

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 Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cologne is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cologne in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Kotor averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Kotor. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cologne is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 12°C (54°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Kotor. Many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. Cologne is much colder than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Kotor. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cologne is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cologne in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Cologne