A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Cologne for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a dramatic, scenic, and picturesque island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Cologne

Cologne is a colorful, fun, and accessible 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cologne than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cologne is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is well known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. 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 Isle of Skye different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

Cologne is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye is an experience not to be missed. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Cologne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is well known for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is considered a top beach destination. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

People visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

Cologne is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Isle of Skye does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Cologne are not to be missed. 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.

Isle of Skye does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Isle of Skye is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Cologne Better for Students?

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

Many students visit 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.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Cologne can take you anywhere. 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 limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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.

One day in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Cologne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. 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 Isle of Skye has to offer.

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

Isle of Skye is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible big city of Cologne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Cologne. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Cologne. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Cologne. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the hiking trails 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.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Cologne. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the winter for 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. Isle of Skye can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Cologne. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally much colder than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Isle of Skye