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

Should you visit Dundee or Cologne?

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

Should I visit Dundee or Cologne? 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.

Dundee

Dundee is a historic, coastal, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dundee and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dundee or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Dundee. Cologne is bigger than Dundee, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is more touristy than Dundee and is 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. Dundee is well known for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Dundee different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dundee 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.

Dundee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Dundee and Cologne can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Dundee offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

Cologne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Dundee or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Cologne offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cologne to see the historical 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.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Cologne?

Cologne is a well-known place for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city for its shopping opportunities.

Cologne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Dundee has some nice offerings. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Dundee does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. 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.

Dundee does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Dundee does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful 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.

Dundee does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Dundee is a family-friendly city. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for Couples?

Cologne is a popular place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Dundee or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Dundee. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

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

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Dundee has some public transit options. The city has a public bus system.

Is Dundee or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Dundee is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walks through the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Cologne?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cologne than Dundee 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 Dundee or Cologne?

In Dundee, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

Cologne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Dundee or Cologne?

In Dundee, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Dundee has to offer.

Cologne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Dundee or Cologne?

Dundee 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dundee or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dundee. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dundee. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Cologne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Dundee or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Dundee. When comparing the sizes of Dundee 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 Dundee or Cologne?

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 Dundee or Cologne in the Summer?

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

In July, Dundee is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 14°C (58°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Dundee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during summer. Dundee gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dundee usually receives less rain than Cologne. Dundee gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dundee or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dundee as well as Cologne. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dundee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dundee is cooler than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dundee averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Dundee gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Dundee gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dundee or Cologne in the Winter?

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

Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Dundee. In the winter, Dundee is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dundee in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Dundee usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Dundee gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dundee usually receives more rain than Cologne. Dundee gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dundee or Cologne in the Spring?

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

In April, Dundee is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 7°C (45°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Dundee gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Dundee gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Dundee