Which place is cheaper, Cologne or Leipzig?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Leipzig 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.
Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Leipzig travel costs.
Cologne is a accessible, vibrant, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Cologne is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Cologne travel costs.
You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Leipzig. Cologne is bigger than Leipzig, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig is more popular for its quaint atmosphere. Cologne is more touristy than Leipzig and is popular 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. Leipzig is well known for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.
The Cologne Cathedral
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cologne and Leipzig. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Leipzig or Cologne.
With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leipzig can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.
Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Leipzig and Cologne.
There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.
Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.
Cologne is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
Many people head to Cologne for the nightlife scene. 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.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.
Cologne is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Leipzig 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.
Leipzig does not have a historic old town.
If you're looking to go shopping, Leipzig and Cologne both offer plenty of very good spots.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.
Cologne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.
Cologne is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Leipzig is not a destination known for its beauty.
Cologne is a gorgeous place to visit. You'll be greeted by the intricately designed Cologne Cathedral as you leave the train station. Old Town spreads out from this square and although many areas have been rebuilt, there city still offers a fascinating beauty.
Leipzig is not a destination known for its beauty.
Cologne is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.
Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.
Leipzig and Cologne are both notable to visit as a couple.
Leipzig is a nice destination for couples. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.
Cologne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.
For backpackers, both Leipzig and Cologne are notable places to visit.
It's common for backpackers to visit Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.
Cologne is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.
Cologne is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.
Cologne is a great city to visit as a student. 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.
Leipzig is not popular with students.
Cologne is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.
Cologne is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.
Cologne is very walkable. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.
Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.
For even more information, also check out Is Leipzig Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Leipzig and Cologne. In our opinion, Cologne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cologne than Leipzig. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Cologne than Leipzig. 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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig 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.
In Leipzig, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.
Because Cologne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.
In Leipzig, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Leipzig has to offer.
Because Cologne 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. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer.
Leipzig is a great place to explore. 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 great place to explore. 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Leipzig. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, and The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €204, while the average daily cost in Cologne is €197. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Leipzig and Cologne in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Leipzig or Cologne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Also for Leipzig, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cologne:
Prices for flights to both Cologne and Leipzig change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cologne:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cologne.
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.
Here are a few actual costs in Cologne for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Leipzig:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cologne:
When comparing the travel costs between Leipzig and Cologne, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.
Cologne has a larger population, and is about 91% larger than the population of Leipzig. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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.
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.
The summer brings many poeple to Leipzig as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Leipzig in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In July, Leipzig is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 19°C (67°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Leipzig this time of the year. In the summer, Leipzig often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.
Leipzig usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Cologne and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Leipzig for the shopping scene during these months. Also, 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.
Leipzig is around the same temperature as Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).
Leipzig usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during autumn. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Cologne. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both Cologne and Leipzig during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Leipzig 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. The weather in Leipzig can be very cold. In the winter, Leipzig is much colder than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Leipzig in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).
In the winter, Leipzig often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.
Leipzig usually gets less rain in January than Cologne. Leipzig gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Cologne. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In April, Leipzig is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 10°C (49°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).
Leipzig usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during spring. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Cologne. Leipzig gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Leipzig | Cologne | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 1°C (33°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 3°C (37°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
Feb | 2°C (35°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) | 4°C (39°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Mar | 5°C (42°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
Apr | 10°C (49°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
May | 14°C (58°F) | 54 mm (2.1 in) | 14°C (58°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
Jun | 18°C (64°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
Jul | 19°C (67°F) | 52 mm (2.1 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) |
Aug | 19°C (66°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) | 19°C (66°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
Sep | 16°C (60°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 62 mm (2.5 in) |
Oct | 11°C (52°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 54 mm (2.1 in) |
Nov | 6°C (42°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) | 7°C (45°F) | 65 mm (2.6 in) |
Dec | 2°C (36°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) | 4°C (39°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |