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

Should you visit Palermo 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 Palermo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Palermo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its museums, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Palermo attracts visitors for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Cologne is more touristy than Palermo and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also well known for The Cologne Cathedral. Palermo is famous for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Palermo different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Palermo 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 Palermo is an experience not to be missed. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Cologne are excellent when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Cologne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Palermo or Cologne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few good snorkeling spots. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Palermo is well known for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Palermo is considered a top beach destination. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Cologne?

Both Palermo and Cologne are excellent shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Palermo or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Palermo or Cologne Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Cologne are excellent to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Cologne Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Cologne are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban 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 Palermo or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Palermo and Cologne are nice destinations for backpackers.

Palermo is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

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 Palermo or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Cologne is very popular for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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 is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Cologne a more walkable city?

Palermo and Cologne both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Cologne?

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

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

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

In Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Because Cologne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

A weekend in Palermo or Cologne?

In Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo has to offer.

Because Cologne 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 Cologne has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Cologne?

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 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.

A week in Palermo or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Palermo. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Cologne in the Summer?

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

Palermo is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Cologne. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Palermo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, 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 the autumn, Palermo is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palermo in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo 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. In January, Palermo is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 12°C (53°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Cologne. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Cologne in the Spring?

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

Palermo is a little warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Palermo