A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Snowdonia National Park vs. Cologne for Couples, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park and Cologne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a natural, scenic, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Cologne

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

Snowdonia National Park and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne. Although Snowdonia National Park and Cologne are both popular with visitors, Cologne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cologne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Snowdonia National Park is known for its skiing, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is known 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. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park is a national park with a few options for winter skiing. However, Cologne is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Cologne is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

Cologne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Snowdonia National Park and Cologne offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Snowdonia National Park. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

Snowdonia National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is very good for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Cologne to see the 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

People visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

Cologne is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Cologne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Snowdonia National Park 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Snowdonia National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make Cologne very popular during this season. 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.

Snowdonia National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Cologne.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Snowdonia National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Snowdonia National Park is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. However, Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

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.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Cologne has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere 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.

Snowdonia National Park has some public transit options. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

Cologne is a very walkable city. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Snowdonia National Park and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than in Cologne. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Snowdonia National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park. 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.

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

People visit Cologne because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Snowdonia National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cologne is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia National Park. In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Cologne. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, 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 the summer, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Snowdonia National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Cologne. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Cologne. The autumn months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the hiking trails 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.

In October, Snowdonia National Park is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 12°C (53°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing and the cuisine are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, 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. Snowdonia National Park is much warmer than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Cologne. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Snowdonia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cologne. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Snowdonia National Park