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

Should you visit Faro or Cologne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Cologne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a accessible, vibrant, and colorful 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Faro and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Faro or Cologne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cologne than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cologne is better known for its museums, food, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Faro is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture. 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.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Faro different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is great for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cologne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Faro and Cologne.

Many people head to Faro for the nightlife scene. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

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.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Resorts?

Faro is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Cologne is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Faro is a great choice. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Cologne is not a resort destination.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Faro is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Faro has a few good snorkeling spots. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Faro is a popular place for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Faro is a good option for a beach vacation. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Faro and Cologne both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Faro is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Many people head to Cologne to see the 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 Faro or Cologne?

Cologne is great for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Faro does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Cologne is a top place to visit during 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.

Faro does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Faro does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make Cologne very popular during this season. 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.

Faro does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination 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.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Couples?

Faro and Cologne are both notable to visit as a couple.

Faro is a nice destination for couples. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Cologne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Faro or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Faro and Cologne are notable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Faro. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Cologne is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Faro or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Faro is not popular with students.

Cologne is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Faro is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its public transit.

Cologne has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere 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.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Faro or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Faro?

How long in Faro or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Faro. 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 Faro. 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 Faro 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 Faro or Cologne?

In Faro, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Cologne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Faro or Cologne?

In Faro, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer.

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Faro or Cologne?

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Faro has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible big city of Cologne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Faro or Cologne?

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

The colorful city of Cologne offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Faro or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Faro 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 Faro 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 Faro or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Faro as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Faro in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Faro is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 25°C (78°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In the summer, Faro often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Faro for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Faro is much warmer than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Faro averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Faro usually receives more rain than Cologne. Faro 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 Faro or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Faro during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Faro because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. In the winter, Faro is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Faro in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets more rain in January than Cologne. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Faro or Cologne in the Spring?

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

In April, Faro is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Faro average around 17°C (62°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Cologne. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Faro