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

Should you visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a character-filled, vibrant, and gothic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and theater.

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.

Edinburgh and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Cologne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Cologne. While Cologne is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cologne is known for its food, christmas markets, and big city activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Cologne and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Edinburgh different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Edinburgh on the map. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

Many visitors head to Cologne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Cologne is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Cologne is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Cologne.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

In Edinburgh you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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 Edinburgh or Cologne?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Edinburgh and Cologne.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Edinburgh does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Cologne are excellent to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Cologne is known to be 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.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh or Cologne Better for Students?

Both Edinburgh and Cologne are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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 Edinburgh or Cologne 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, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Cologne a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Cologne?

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Cologne?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh has to offer.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Cologne?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the accessible city of Cologne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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 choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh and Cologne, we can see that Edinburgh 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, 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, Edinburgh is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Cologne. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Cologne. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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, Edinburgh is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Edinburgh or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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. Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cologne. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Edinburgh in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Cologne during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Cologne. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Edinburgh