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

Should you visit Cologne or Naples?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Naples? 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Naples

Naples is a gritty, colorful, and fascinating city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Naples?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne. Although Cologne and Naples are popular destinations, Cologne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cologne is very popular for its christmas markets and impressive beauty, while Naples attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. Cologne is more touristy than Naples and is known 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. Naples is famous for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Naples specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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

Naples 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, Naples is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Naples for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Cologne or Naples Better for its Old Town?

Naples is well known for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

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 Naples?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Naples 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 Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Cologne or Naples Better for Christmas?

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

Naples does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Naples Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Naples does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Naples Better for Families?

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

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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Cologne or Naples Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Naples frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

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 Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Naples is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

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 Naples Better for Students?

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

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.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Cologne or Naples a more walkable city?

Cologne and Naples 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.

Naples is very walkable. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Naples?

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

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

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

One day in Cologne or Naples?

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

In Naples, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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 Naples?

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 Naples, 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. 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 Naples has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Naples?

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.

Naples 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 Naples?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun 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 Naples. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Naples. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Naples?

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

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 Naples in the Summer?

Both Naples and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Naples in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Cologne is cooler than Naples in the summer. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Naples fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Naples. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Naples during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Naples. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Naples in the Autumn?

Both Naples and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Naples for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Cologne is cooler than Naples. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cologne in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Naples averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Naples. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Naples. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Naples in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Naples. 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 Naples 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 Naples. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 3°C (37°F), and Naples fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Naples during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Naples. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Naples in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Naples. The spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Naples this time of year.

Cologne is cooler than Naples in the spring. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Naples fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Naples. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Naples. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Naples and Cologne