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

Should you visit Cologne or Lyon?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Lyon? 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 vibrant, colorful, and fun 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Lyon?

Both Lyon and Cologne have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets, while Lyon is known for its museums, food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Lyon is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town.

How is Cologne different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lyon on the map. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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.

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

Lyon 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, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Lyon for the nightlife scene. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Cologne or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon 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, Lyon offers plenty to see. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 Lyon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lyon and Cologne.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Cologne or Lyon Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Lyon does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. 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.

Lyon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Lyon Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Lyon does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful 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.

Lyon does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Lyon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Lyon.

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.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Cologne or Lyon Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lyon is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

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 Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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.

Is Cologne or Lyon 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 Lyon.

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.

Lyon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Is Cologne or Lyon a more walkable city?

Cologne and Lyon both are very good 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.

Lyon is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Lyon?

In either Cologne or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Cologne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Cologne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lyon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Cologne or Lyon?

Cologne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Lyon, 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 Lyon?

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lyon, 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 Lyon has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun big city of Cologne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cologne or Lyon?

The vibrant city of Cologne offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Lyon?

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

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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Lyon. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Lyon. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Lyon. Many visitors come to Cologne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cologne is cooler than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lyon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lyon can be very cold. Cologne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cologne is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives more rain than Lyon. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Cologne during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In April, Cologne is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Cologne