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

Should you visit Salzburg or Cologne?

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

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Salzburg and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Salzburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cologne is very popular for its nightlife, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Salzburg attracts visitors for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Cologne and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Cologne is famous 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.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Salzburg different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Salzburg or Cologne Better for Music?

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

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg offers plenty to see. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

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 Salzburg or Cologne?

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

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Salzburg or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas markets. However, Salzburg does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Cologne are not to be missed. 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.

Salzburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Salzburg or Cologne Better for Families?

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

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Cologne Better for Couples?

Salzburg is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg or Cologne Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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

Cologne is terrific for its public transit. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Salzburg or Cologne a more walkable city?

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

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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 Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Salzburg or Cologne?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

Cologne is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Salzburg or Cologne?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Cologne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cologne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Cologne?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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 great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Salzburg 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 Salzburg Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Cologne. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for 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.

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

In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Cologne. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Cologne. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cologne. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Salzburg 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 Salzburg can be very cold. In January, Salzburg is generally much colder than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around -0°C (31°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Salzburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Cologne. Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Salzburg is around the same temperature as Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cologne. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Salzburg