A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Nuremberg vs. Cologne for Attractions, Old Town, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a charming, beautiful, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nuremberg and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Nuremberg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets and big city activities, while Nuremberg is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nuremberg is popular for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. 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 Nuremberg different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nuremberg is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Nuremberg on the map. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

Many visitors head to Cologne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Nuremberg or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nuremberg. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

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 Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nuremberg and Cologne.

Nuremberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

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 Nuremberg or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Nuremberg offers plenty to see. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nuremberg or Cologne?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cologne and Nuremberg.

Nuremberg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

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 Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Nuremberg does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Families?

Both Nuremberg and Cologne are excellent to visit with kids.

Nuremberg is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cologne. 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 Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Nuremberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg is well known for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nuremberg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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 Nuremberg or Cologne Better for Students?

Nuremberg and Cologne are excellent places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Many students visit 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.

Is Nuremberg 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, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Nuremberg offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

Is Nuremberg or Cologne a more walkable city?

Nuremberg and Cologne both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Nuremberg is a very walkable city. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored 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 Nuremberg Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nuremberg and Cologne. In our opinion, Nuremberg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nuremberg than Cologne. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Nuremberg or Cologne?

In Nuremberg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nuremberg or Cologne?

In Nuremberg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nuremberg has to offer.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nuremberg or Cologne?

Nuremberg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Cologne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nuremberg or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nuremberg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nuremberg. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Nuremberg. When comparing the sizes of Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Nuremberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nuremberg 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, Nuremberg is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nuremberg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nuremberg. Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Cologne. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Nuremberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nuremberg 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, Nuremberg is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 12°C (53°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Nuremberg often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nuremberg and Cologne. Most visitors come to Nuremberg 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. Nuremberg can be very cold during winter. Nuremberg is much colder than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Nuremberg usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Cologne. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nuremberg or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nuremberg as well as Cologne. The spring months attract visitors to Nuremberg because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

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

In the spring, Nuremberg often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg