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

Should you visit Manchester or Cologne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Cologne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Manchester and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Manchester. Cologne is bigger than Manchester, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its historical sights, christmas markets, and impressive beauty, while Manchester is more popular for its food and music. Cologne is more touristy than Manchester 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. Manchester is well known for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Manchester different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Manchester or Cologne.

Many visitors head to Manchester specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cologne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Manchester or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester 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 Manchester is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

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 Manchester or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Manchester and Cologne.

Many people head to Manchester for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Cologne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Manchester or Cologne Better for Music?

Manchester is well known for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Manchester or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is very good for its historic old town. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Cologne?

If you're looking to go shopping, Manchester and Cologne both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

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 Manchester or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Manchester or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Manchester does not offer Christmas markets.

Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. 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.

Manchester does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Manchester or Cologne Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Manchester or Cologne.

Manchester is a very family-friendly destination. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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.

Is Manchester or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Manchester frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

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 Manchester or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Manchester and Cologne are notable places to visit.

Manchester is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Manchester or Cologne Better for Students?

For students, both Manchester and Cologne are great places to visit.

Manchester is very popular with students. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

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.

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

Cologne is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Public transit in Manchester can get you to some places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Is Manchester or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester 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.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Manchester Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Manchester and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Manchester than in Cologne. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

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

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

Because Manchester is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the colorful city of Cologne, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Manchester or Cologne?

Because Manchester 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 Manchester has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Cologne, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Manchester or Cologne?

Manchester 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Cologne?

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

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Manchester and Cologne, we can see that Manchester is more expensive. And not only is Cologne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cologne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cologne 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 Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester than you might in Cologne.

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

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Manchester for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Manchester is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 16°C (62°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Manchester often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

Manchester is cooler than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Manchester usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives more rain than Cologne. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Manchester during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. It's quite cold in Manchester in the winter. In the winter, Manchester is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Manchester in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in January than Cologne. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Cologne. Many travelers come to Manchester for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Manchester is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 8°C (46°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Manchester usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Manchester gets 51 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 Manchester