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

Should you visit Cologne or Nashville?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Nashville? 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Nashville?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Nashville. Cologne is bigger than Nashville, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nashville is more popular for its music and resorts. Cologne is more touristy than Nashville and is popular 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. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cologne is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cologne. 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.

Nashville offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Cologne and Nashville 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 Nashville. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Nashville for the nightlife scene. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Music?

Nashville is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

In Nashville you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Nashville is a popular place for its resorts. However, Cologne is not a resort destination.

Nashville has a few great resort options. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Cologne is not a resort destination.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Nashville does not have a historic old town.

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.

Nashville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Nashville?

Cologne is a very popular place for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Nashville offers some nice Christmas activities. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Nashville 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.

Nashville does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Families?

Cologne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Nashville make for a notable 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.

Nashville is a nice destination for couples. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne and Nashville are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Nashville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Is Cologne or Nashville Better for Students?

Cologne is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Nashville is a decent spot for students. Several universities bring in international students, but the city is smaller and it isn't the most popular student destination in America.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Cologne or Nashville a more walkable city?

Cologne is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Nashville is not a walkable city. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Nashville?

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

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

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nashville, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Nashville?

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Nashville, you'll find live music and food. 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 live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nashville has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Nashville?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Cologne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nashville 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 Nashville?

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nashville. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nashville. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cologne and Nashville, we can see that Cologne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Cologne is in Europe and Nashville is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Nashville?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 81% larger than the population of Nashville. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Nashville, 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 Nashville?

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 Nashville in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Nashville. Many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Nashville for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cologne is cooler than Nashville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cologne in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Nashville averages at about 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nashville. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Nashville. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 276 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in July than Nashville. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Nashville in the Autumn?

Both Nashville and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Nashville because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Cologne is generally cooler than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 12°C (54°F), and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Nashville. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Nashville during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 212 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Nashville. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Nashville in the Winter?

Both Nashville and Cologne during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cologne because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nashville this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nashville in the winter. The weather in Cologne can be very cold. Cologne is cooler than Nashville in the winter. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Nashville. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 134 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Cologne or Nashville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Nashville. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nashville for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cologne is much colder than Nashville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cologne in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nashville this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Nashville during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 234 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nashville receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Cologne usually receives less rain than Nashville. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nashville and Cologne