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

Should you visit Grindelwald or Cologne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Grindelwald and Cologne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a high adrenaline, breathtaking, and beautiful town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and skiing.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne. Although Grindelwald and Cologne are popular destinations, Cologne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cologne is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Grindelwald attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is famous for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also well known for The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Grindelwald different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald is well known for winter skiing. However, Cologne is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Cologne is not a skiing destination.

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

Cologne is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

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

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Cologne both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Grindelwald area. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in 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 Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Cologne offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

People visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Cologne?

Cologne is well known for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

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.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Grindelwald does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Cologne is not to be missed. 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.

Grindelwald does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Grindelwald does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Cologne.

Grindelwald is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor 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.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Grindelwald frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

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 Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Grindelwald is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

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 Grindelwald or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Cologne can get you around easily. 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.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Grindelwald or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Grindelwald is somewhat walkable. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Cologne?

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

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

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town 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 accessible city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Grindelwald or Cologne?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer.

Cologne is a fun big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Grindelwald or Cologne?

Grindelwald is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

The vibrant city of Cologne offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grindelwald. Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Cologne. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Grindelwald during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Cologne. The skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. It's quite cold in Grindelwald in the winter. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Cologne. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Grindelwald or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Cologne. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the spring. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Cologne. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Grindelwald