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

Should you visit Cologne or Portland?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Portland? 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.

Portland

Portland is a tree-lined, nature-filled, and scenic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Cologne and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Portland. Cologne is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Cologne is well known 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. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cologne is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Cologne is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Cologne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Portland 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.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Portland?

Cologne is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Portland 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.

Portland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Portland does not offer Christmas markets.

Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. 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.

Portland does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Families?

Cologne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cologne and Portland 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Cologne or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

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

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

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

Cologne has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Cologne or Portland a more walkable city?

Cologne and Portland both are excellent 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.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Portland?

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

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

Cologne is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Portland?

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Portland?

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

Cologne is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cologne and Portland, we can see that Portland 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 Portland 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 Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Portland?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

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

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. In the summer, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Portland. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland 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 Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Portland. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 12°C (54°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Cologne or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland 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 shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Cologne can be very cold. Cologne is cooler than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Portland. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cologne usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Portland in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Cologne is around the same temperature as Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cologne in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cologne usually receives less rain than Portland. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Cologne