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

Should you visit Cologne or Nantes?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Nantes? 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 colorful, fun, and accessible city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Nantes?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Nantes. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its christmas markets and big city activities, while Nantes attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Nantes and is popular 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. Nantes is famous for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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

Nantes 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, Nantes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Nantes for the nightlife scene. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Cologne or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the nice old towns in both Cologne and Nantes.

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.

Nantes is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Nantes?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nantes 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 Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is Cologne or Nantes Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nantes does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. 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.

Nantes does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Nantes Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an unbeatable place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Nantes Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cologne or Nantes.

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.

Nantes is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Is Cologne or Nantes Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Cologne or Nantes Better for Students?

Cologne is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Cologne is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Cologne is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

Visitors to Nantes can move around easily with public transportation. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Is Cologne or Nantes a more walkable city?

Cologne and Nantes 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.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Nantes?

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

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

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

Cologne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Nantes?

Cologne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Nantes, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantes has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantes 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 Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant big city of Cologne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Nantes?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Nantes. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Cologne is around the same temperature as Nantes in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nantes. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Nantes. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cologne is around the same temperature as Nantes. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Nantes averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Nantes. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Nantes in the Winter?

Both Nantes and Cologne during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Nantes because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cologne can be very cold during winter. In January, Cologne is generally much colder than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in January than Nantes. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Nantes in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Nantes. The spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

Cologne is around the same temperature as Nantes in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Nantes and Cologne