A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Linz vs. Cologne for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Linz or Cologne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Linz and Cologne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Linz

Linz is a cultural, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Linz and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Linz or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Linz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its nightlife, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Linz is known for its impressive beauty. Linz is popular for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. Cologne is popular for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Linz different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Linz and Cologne.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Linz and Cologne both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Linz. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Cologne is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Linz or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

Cologne offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Linz or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Both Linz and Cologne have good historic old towns worth visiting.

Many people head to Linz to see the old town. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Cologne has an old town worth visiting. 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 Linz or Cologne?

Both Linz and Cologne are excellent shopping destinations.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Is Linz or Cologne Better for Christmas?

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

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. 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.

Linz does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Linz or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Linz does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Linz or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Linz is a family-friendly town. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Linz or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Linz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

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 Linz or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Linz and Cologne are good destinations for backpackers.

Linz is a good town to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Linz or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

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.

Linz is not popular with students.

Is Linz 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. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Linz or Cologne a more walkable city?

Linz and Cologne both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

Cologne is a very walkable destination. 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 Linz Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Linz?

How long in Linz or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Linz. 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.

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

In Linz, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Cologne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Linz or Cologne?

In Linz, 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 Linz has to offer.

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Linz or Cologne?

Linz 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible big city of Cologne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Linz or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Linz. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Linz. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The colorful city of Cologne offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Linz or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Linz 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 Linz 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 Linz or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Linz and Cologne. Many travelers come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Linz is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Linz in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Linz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Linz usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Linz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Linz usually receives more rain than Cologne. Linz gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Linz or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Linz as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Linz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Linz is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Linz average around 11°C (52°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Linz often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Linz gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Linz gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Linz or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Linz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Linz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cologne because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Cologne can be very cold. Linz can be very cold during winter. Linz is much colder than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Linz averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Linz usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Linz gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Linz usually receives less rain than Cologne. Linz gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Linz or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Linz during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Linz because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In the spring, Linz is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Linz in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Linz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Linz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cologne. Linz gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Linz