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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Cologne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Copenhagen and Cologne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a welcoming, relaxed, and beautiful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a colorful, fun, and accessible 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne. Although Copenhagen and Cologne are both popular with visitors, Cologne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets and big city activities, while Copenhagen is known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Copenhagen and 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. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Copenhagen different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cologne and Copenhagen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Copenhagen or Cologne?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Copenhagen and Cologne.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Copenhagen 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, Copenhagen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Copenhagen is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne?

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

Copenhagen is a world class destination for shoppers. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is renowned for visiting Christmas markets. However, Copenhagen does not offer Christmas markets.

People travel to Cologne specifically to enjoy its famous 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.

Copenhagen does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Families?

Copenhagen 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, Copenhagen is a very family-friendly destination. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Copenhagen makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Copenhagen is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

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 Copenhagen or Cologne Better for Students?

Both Copenhagen and Cologne are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Copenhagen. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

Many students visit 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.

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

Visitors will find terrific public transit in both Copenhagen and Cologne.

Copenhagen has a great public transit system. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Public transit in Cologne is top-notch. 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.

Is Copenhagen or Cologne a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Copenhagen on foot is easy. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Copenhagen and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than in Cologne. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

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

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Cologne?

In Copenhagen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

When visiting Cologne, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Cologne?

In Copenhagen, 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 Copenhagen has to offer.

When visiting Cologne, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Cologne?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cologne, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. 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.

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Copenhagen and Cologne, we can see that Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Cologne?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Cologne, 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 Copenhagen or Cologne?

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 Copenhagen or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Cologne. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.

In October, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Cologne. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cologne because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Cologne can be very cold. Copenhagen can be very cold during winter. Copenhagen is much colder than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in January than Cologne. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In the spring, Copenhagen is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Cologne. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Copenhagen