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

Should you visit Osaka or Cologne?

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

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

Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a colorful, fun, and accessible city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Cologne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cologne attracts visitors for its christmas markets and impressive beauty. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Cologne is famous for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Osaka different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Osaka 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 Osaka on the map. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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 Osaka or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Osaka is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Osaka is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

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 Osaka or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is well known for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Osaka. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

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 Osaka or Cologne?

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

Osaka is a world class destination for shoppers. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

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 Osaka or Cologne Better for Christmas?

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

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Cologne draws large crowds. 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.

Osaka does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Osaka or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Osaka 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.

Osaka does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Osaka or Cologne Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Cologne is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Osaka or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

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 Osaka or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Osaka is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

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 Osaka or Cologne Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Cologne are very good destinations for students.

Osaka is a great city to visit as a student. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

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.

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

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Osaka and Cologne.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

Visitors in Cologne can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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 Osaka or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Osaka or Cologne?

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Cologne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this accessible big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Osaka or Cologne?

Because Osaka 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Osaka has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Osaka or Cologne?

Osaka 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.

Cologne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Cologne. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Osaka or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the accessible big city of Cologne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Cologne, we can see that Cologne is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka is in Asia and Cologne is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Osaka.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Cologne?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cologne. When comparing the sizes of Osaka 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 Osaka 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 Osaka or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Osaka in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Osaka is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Cologne. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Cologne. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, 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, Osaka is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Cologne. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Cologne. The winter months attract visitors to Osaka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Cologne. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Osaka is a little warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Cologne. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Osaka