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

Should you visit Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a accessible, bustling, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Heraklion and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Heraklion, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is known for its food and beaches. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Heraklion different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Cologne.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cologne. 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 Heraklion or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion 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 Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

Heraklion has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is well known for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a city with good options for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Cologne. 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Cologne?

Cologne is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Heraklion or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Heraklion or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

Is Heraklion or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

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 Heraklion or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Heraklion or Cologne a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Cologne are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Cologne?

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

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 Heraklion or Cologne?

In Heraklion, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Cologne?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

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 Heraklion or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Cologne, we can see that Cologne 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 Heraklion Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, 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, Heraklion is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Cologne. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Cologne. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Heraklion is much warmer than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Cologne. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Cologne. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Heraklion