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

Should you visit Southampton or Cologne?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Cologne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Southampton

Southampton is a dynamic, up-and-coming, and waterfront port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a accessible, vibrant, and colorful 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Southampton and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Southampton or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Southampton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more touristy than Southampton and is popular 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. Southampton is popular for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Southampton different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Cologne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Southampton. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Southampton and Cologne can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Southampton has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cologne area. 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 Southampton or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Cologne has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Southampton. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

Is Southampton or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is a popular place for its old town. However, Southampton does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Cologne. 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.

Southampton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Cologne?

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

Cologne is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

Is Southampton or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Southampton 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.

Southampton does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Southampton or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Southampton does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful 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.

Southampton does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Southampton or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. 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.

Southampton is a family-friendly place to visit. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.

Is Southampton or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Southampton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

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 Southampton or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Southampton or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Southampton is not popular with students.

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Southampton is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Cologne is top-notch. 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 generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.

Is Southampton or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Southampton is a somewhat walkable port city. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Southampton. 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 Southampton. 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Cologne?

In Southampton, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Cologne is a fun city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Cologne?

In Southampton, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Southampton has to offer.

Cologne is a accessible big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Southampton or Cologne?

Southampton 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.

The accessible city of Cologne offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Southampton or Cologne?

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

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Southampton or Cologne?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Cologne. The summer months attract visitors to Southampton because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In the summer, Southampton is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Southampton in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In the summer, Southampton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Southampton or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Southampton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during autumn. Southampton gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Southampton usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Southampton or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Southampton during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Southampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cologne in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cologne can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Southampton. Southampton is a little warmer than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Southampton often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Southampton gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in January than Cologne. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Southampton or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Cologne. Many visitors come to Southampton in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Southampton is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Southampton in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Southampton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during spring. Southampton gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Southampton usually receives less rain than Cologne. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Southampton