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

Should you visit Istanbul or Cologne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Cologne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Istanbul and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Cologne. Istanbul is bigger than Cologne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets. Istanbul is more touristy than Cologne and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Cologne is well known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Istanbul different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Istanbul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Istanbul and Cologne.

Istanbul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Cologne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Istanbul or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Istanbul offers plenty to see. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

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 Istanbul or Cologne?

Both Istanbul and Cologne are very good shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Istanbul does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a fantastic destination at 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.

Istanbul does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Istanbul or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Istanbul does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful 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.

Istanbul does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Istanbul or Cologne Better for Families?

Istanbul and Cologne are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Istanbul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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 Istanbul or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Cologne Better for Students?

Istanbul and Cologne are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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.

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

Both Istanbul and Cologne offer fantastic public transit options.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Cologne has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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 Istanbul or Cologne a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Cologne both are very good when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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 Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Cologne. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

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

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Cologne?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Cologne offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Cologne?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Cologne?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Cologne is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Cologne?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Cologne. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Cologne. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cologne in the winter. In the winter, Istanbul is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Cologne. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Istanbul