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

Should you visit Cologne or Paris?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Paris? 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 accessible, vibrant, and colorful 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Cologne and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Paris?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Cologne. Paris is bigger than Cologne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cologne is more popular for its historical sights and christmas markets. Paris is more touristy than Cologne and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Cologne is well known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Cologne different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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 Paris on the map. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Cologne or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Cologne is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Cologne is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Many people head to Cologne for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Cologne or Paris Better for Music?

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

In Paris you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Paris 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Paris?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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.

Is Cologne or Paris Better for Christmas?

The Christmas season is a nice time to visit both Cologne and Paris.

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.

With so many activities, Paris is a top place to visit during Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Paris Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Paris does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Cologne are not to be missed. 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.

Paris does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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.

Is Cologne or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad 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.

Is Cologne or Paris 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 Paris.

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.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Cologne or Paris a more walkable city?

Cologne and Paris both are high quality 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.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Paris?

Both Cologne and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Cologne. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

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

One day in Cologne or Paris?

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.

In Paris, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Paris?

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.

In Paris, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Paris?

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.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cologne or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful 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 Paris. In Paris, you'll find theater and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cologne and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Cologne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cologne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cologne 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Cologne.

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Paris?

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

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Cologne during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In the summer, Cologne is around the same temperature as Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cologne in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Paris. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Paris. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Paris during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cologne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Paris. Many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. Cologne is much colder than Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Paris. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cologne is cooler than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cologne in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Paris during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives more rain than Paris. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Cologne