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

Should you visit Cologne or Rouen?

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

Should I visit Cologne or Rouen? 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 vibrant, colorful, and fun 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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Rouen

Rouen is a charming, compact, and impressive city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Rouen?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Rouen, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Rouen is known for its food and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Rouen and is known 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. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cologne is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Rouen 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 Rouen is an experience not to be missed. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

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 Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Cologne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Cologne or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Cologne and Rouen.

Cologne offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Rouen is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Rouen?

Cologne is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Cologne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Cologne or Rouen Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Rouen does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a fantastic destination at 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.

Rouen does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Rouen Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Rouen does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Rouen Better for Families?

Cologne is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Cologne or Rouen Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Rouen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

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 Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

Is Cologne or Rouen Better for Students?

Cologne is notable for students. However, Rouen is not popular with students.

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Rouen is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

The public transit in Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

Is Cologne or Rouen a more walkable city?

Cologne and Rouen 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.

Rouen is very walkable. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Rouen?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cologne or Rouen to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cologne than Rouen because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cologne, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rouen.

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

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 Rouen, you'll find nightlife and 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rouen has to offer.

Five days in Cologne or Rouen?

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.

Rouen 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 Rouen?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun 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 Rouen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rouen. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Rouen?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Cologne and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Rouen. The summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rouen this time of year.

In July, Cologne is generally around the same temperature as Rouen. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rouen this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Rouen. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Rouen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cologne as well as Rouen. 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 Rouen for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cologne is around the same temperature as Rouen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Rouen fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Rouen. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 127 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Rouen. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Rouen in the Winter?

Both Rouen and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Rouen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Rouen can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. In the winter, Cologne is cooler than Rouen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Rouen averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rouen. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Rouen in the Spring?

Both Rouen and Cologne during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rouen for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cologne is generally a little warmer than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Rouen. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets more rain in April than Rouen. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Cologne