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

Should you visit Porto 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 Porto and Cologne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Porto and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than Porto. Cologne is bigger than Porto, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its shopping and christmas markets, while Porto is more popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Porto is well known for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Cologne is well known 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.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Porto different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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 Porto or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto 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, Porto is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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 Porto or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Porto and Cologne.

The nightlife in Porto has something for everybody. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Cologne offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Porto or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Porto 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 Porto. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

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 Porto or Cologne?

Cologne is a great city for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Porto does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Cologne. 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.

Porto does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Porto or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for visiting Christmas markets. However, Porto 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.

Porto does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Porto or Cologne Better for Families?

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

Porto is a very family-friendly destination. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly port 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 Porto or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

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 Porto or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Porto is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto or Cologne Better for Students?

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

Porto is very popular with students. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Cologne is a great port 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 Porto 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, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Porto has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Is Porto or Cologne a more walkable city?

Porto and Cologne are great when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Cologne is a very walkable port city. 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 Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Porto?

How long in Porto or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Porto or Cologne?

Because Porto 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This port 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 fun 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 Porto or Cologne?

Because Porto 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto 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 Porto or Cologne?

Porto is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Porto has to offer. 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 Porto or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 fun 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Porto 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 Porto 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 Porto or Cologne in the Summer?

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

In July, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 21°C (69°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

Porto is a little warmer than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Porto usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives more rain than Cologne. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Furthermore, 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. In the winter, Porto is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Porto in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Cologne. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Cologne in the Spring?

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

In April, Porto is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 14°C (56°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Cologne. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Porto