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

Should you visit Ghent or Cologne?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Cologne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a youthful, high energy, and cultural city. 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 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.

Ghent and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Ghent. Cologne is bigger than Ghent, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its christmas markets and big city activities, while Ghent is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Ghent 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. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Ghent different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Ghent and Cologne have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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.

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

Ghent 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 Ghent is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Ghent is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

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 Ghent or Cologne?

Both Ghent and Cologne are superb shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Cologne is well-known for its shopping. 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 Ghent or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Ghent or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Ghent does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Ghent or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Ghent or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Ghent frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Cologne are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

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.

Is Ghent or Cologne Better for Students?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Cologne is very popular with students. 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 Ghent or Cologne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Ghent and Cologne offer amazing public transit options.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Visitors in Cologne can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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 Ghent or Cologne a more walkable city?

Ghent and Cologne both are superb when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

Cologne is a very walkable city. 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 Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ghent and Cologne. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ghent than Cologne. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Ghent or Cologne?

In Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.

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.

A weekend in Ghent or Cologne?

In Ghent, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

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.

Five days in Ghent or Cologne?

Ghent is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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.

A week in Ghent or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Cologne. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives less rain than Cologne. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ghent or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Cologne. Many travelers come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ghent in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cologne can be very cold during winter. Ghent can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Ghent is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ghent in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Ghent usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Ghent or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ghent for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Ghent is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 8°C (47°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Ghent