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

Should you visit Hydra or Cologne?

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

Should I visit Hydra or Cologne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hydra and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Cologne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cologne than Hydra, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cologne is better known for its nightlife, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Hydra is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hydra is well known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. 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 Hydra different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Cologne have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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

Foodies will find both Hydra and Cologne both to be notable destinations.

Hydra offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

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.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a great destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Cologne know how to have a good time. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Resorts?

Hydra is a popular place for its resorts. However, Cologne is not a resort destination.

Hydra has a few great resort options. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Cologne is not a resort destination.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Beaches?

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

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Hydra 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 Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its 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 Hydra or Cologne Better for Hiking?

Hydra is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Cologne?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cologne and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

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 Hydra or Cologne Better for Christmas?

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

Cologne is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Hydra does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Hydra does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Cologne.

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Couples?

Hydra is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

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 Hydra or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a great destination for students. However, Hydra is not popular with students.

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Hydra is not popular with students.

Is Hydra 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. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Cologne a more walkable city?

Hydra 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 Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

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 Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Hydra than Cologne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hydra, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cologne than Hydra 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 Hydra or Cologne?

Hydra is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This island 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 Hydra or Cologne?

Hydra 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hydra 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 Hydra or Cologne?

Hydra 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 Hydra or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. Since Hydra is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 accessible 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 420 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hydra because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In July, Hydra is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 27°C (81°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Cologne. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hydra is much warmer than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Cologne. Many travelers come to Hydra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Hydra is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hydra in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hydra usually receives less rain than Cologne. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Hydra in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Hydra is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 16°C (60°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Hydra