A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Leipzig vs. Cologne for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Leipzig or Cologne?

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

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

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.

Cologne

Cologne is a accessible, vibrant, and colorful 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leipzig or Cologne?

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

How is Leipzig different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Cologne?

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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Leipzig does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Cologne is a top place to visit during 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.

Leipzig does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Families?

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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Couples?

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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne Better for Students?

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.

Is Leipzig 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. 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.

Is Leipzig or Cologne a more walkable city?

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?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Cologne?

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.

One day in Leipzig or 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.

A weekend in Leipzig or Cologne?

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.

Five days in Leipzig or Cologne?

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.

A week in Leipzig or Cologne?

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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Germany, and The Best Luxury Tours to Germany.

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?.

Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Cologne?

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.

When is the best time to visit Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Cologne in the Summer?

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.

Should I visit Leipzig or Cologne in the Autumn?

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.

Should I visit Leipzig or Cologne in the Winter?

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.

Should I visit Leipzig or Cologne in the Spring?

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.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Leipzig