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

Should you visit Cologne or Pisa?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Pisa? 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. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pisa

Pisa is a iconic, world-famous, and classic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cologne and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Pisa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Pisa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets and big city activities, while Pisa is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral. Pisa is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Pisa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

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

Pisa is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Pisa is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

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 Pisa Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Pisa for the nightlife scene. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a popular place for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Pisa is a good option for a beach vacation. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Pisa 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 Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

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 Pisa?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pisa 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 Pisa. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Pisa does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Cologne. 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.

Pisa does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Pisa 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.

Pisa does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for Families?

Cologne is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. 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.

Pisa is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Pisa make for a good 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.

Pisa is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Cologne or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Pisa is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

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 Pisa Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Pisa. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

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 Pisa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cologne is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Cologne can take you anywhere. 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.

Pisa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Cologne or Pisa a more walkable city?

Cologne and Pisa 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.

Pisa is very walkable. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Pisa?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Pisa. 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.

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

One day in Cologne or Pisa?

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 Pisa, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Pisa?

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 Pisa, 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 Pisa has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Pisa?

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.

Pisa 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 Pisa?

The colorful 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 Pisa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pisa. 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Pisa?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Pisa, 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 Pisa?

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 Pisa in the Summer?

Both Pisa 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. Furthermore, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Pisa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Pisa. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cologne is cooler than Pisa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cologne usually receives less rain than Pisa. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cologne or Pisa in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. In the winter, Cologne is much colder than Pisa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Pisa averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Pisa. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in January than Pisa. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa 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 Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cologne is generally cooler than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Pisa during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. In April, Cologne usually receives less rain than Pisa. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Cologne