A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Munich vs. Cologne for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Munich or Cologne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich 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.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Munich or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Munich than Cologne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Munich is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cologne attracts visitors for its historical sights, christmas markets, and impressive beauty. Munich is famous for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also well known for The Nymphenburg Palace. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Munich different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Munich or Cologne.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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 Munich or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Munich 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 Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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 Munich or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Munich is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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.

Is Munich or Cologne Better for Music?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

In Munich you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Munich or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Munich does not have a historic old town.

Cologne offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Cologne?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Munich or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Munich does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Cologne is not to be missed. 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.

Munich does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Munich or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Munich does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make Cologne very popular during this season. 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.

Munich does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Munich or Cologne Better for Families?

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

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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.

Is Munich or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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 Munich or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Munich is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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 Munich or Cologne Better for Students?

Munich is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Munich. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Cologne is very popular with students. 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 Munich or Cologne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Munich and Cologne.

Munich has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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.

Is Munich or Cologne a more walkable city?

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

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

Cologne is very walkable. 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 Munich Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Munich?

How long in Munich or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Munich and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than in Cologne. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Munich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

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

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

One day in Munich or Cologne?

Because Munich 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Cologne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Munich or Cologne?

Because Munich 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 Munich has to offer.

Cologne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Munich or Cologne?

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Munich or Cologne?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Cologne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Munich and Cologne, we can see that Cologne 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 Munich Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Munich or Cologne?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Munich in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Munich is around the same temperature as Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Munich. Munich usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Munich or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Munich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Munich for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music 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.

In the autumn, Munich is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Munich in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Cologne. The winter months attract visitors to Munich 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 Munich can be very cold. In January, Munich is generally much colder than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Munich average around -1°C (31°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Cologne during winter. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Munich usually receives less rain than Cologne. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Munich or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Munich as well as Cologne. The activities around the city are the main draw to Munich this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Munich is a little warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Munich often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Munich gets 48 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 Munich