A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Stuttgart vs. Cologne for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Stuttgart or Cologne?

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

Should I visit Stuttgart 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.

Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a dynamic, modern, and authentic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a colorful, fun, and accessible city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Stuttgart and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stuttgart or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne than Stuttgart. 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 impressive beauty, while Stuttgart attracts visitors for its food. Cologne is more touristy than Stuttgart and is popular 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. Stuttgart is famous for its many automobile museums including the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Stuttgart different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Stuttgart is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city's influence over the car industry is reflected in the museums in town. You can visit both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart. Also check out Schlossplatz, the Ludwigsburg Palace, and Altes Schloss and Landesmuseum while you're in town.

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

Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart is an experience not to be missed. The city blends traditional German flavors with modern twists. You'll find much more than the standard bratworsts that so many people associate with German cuisine. One favorite dish is maultaschen, which is like a ravioli. Also make sure you try spätzle, zwiebelrostbraten (roast and onions) and flädlesuppe (soup with long pasta).

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 Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Stuttgart and Cologne.

Stuttgart has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene stays active late into the evening. You'll find no shortage of clubs, bars, music venues, and beer gardens. You'll meet a combination of locals, tourists, students, and expats at many venues.

Cologne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Stuttgart or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

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

Cologne has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Stuttgart does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stuttgart or Cologne?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Stuttgart and Cologne.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Stuttgart. The city is filled with pedestrian shopping streets as well as flea markets and major shopping malls. The main shopping street in town is Koenigstrasse, where you'll find many upscale boutiques. For a local food market head to Markthalle Stuttgart. The flagship store of the Breuninger chain is also found in Stuttgart.

Cologne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Stuttgart does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. 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.

Stuttgart does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Stuttgart 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.

Stuttgart does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stuttgart. Like many German city's, there's a great zoo to explore. There's also some unique museums like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Kids will also enjoy taking in the view from the top of the Fernsehturm.

Is Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Stuttgart and Cologne make for a nice place to visit.

Stuttgart is a good city for couples to visit. The city is large enough to have some nice romantic hotels, spas, luxury restaurants, and other activities that make for a great date night.

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 Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stuttgart and Cologne are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Stuttgart. It's not on the backpacker circuit for most people but there are still plenty of hostels and affordable accommodation options. You'll also find plenty of activities and affordable restaurants to choose from.

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 Stuttgart or Cologne Better for Students?

Both Stuttgart and Cologne are high quality destinations for students.

Stuttgart is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's an international city with great universities and a friendly and central location. There's also a lively nightlife and plenty of things to do.

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 Stuttgart 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. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Visitors to Stuttgart can move around easily with public transportation. The city's transit system includes buses, the U‑Bahn and the S‑Bahn. The U-Bahn is a denser train system in the city center and the S-Bahn covers more distance and reaches into the suburbs with stops that are more spread out.

Is Stuttgart or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Stuttgart is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Stuttgart is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Stuttgart?

How long in Stuttgart or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stuttgart and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stuttgart than in Cologne. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Stuttgart, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

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

Because Stuttgart is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cologne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cologne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stuttgart or Cologne?

Because Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun big city of Cologne. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stuttgart or Cologne?

Stuttgart 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Cologne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stuttgart or Cologne?

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

Cologne is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Stuttgart and Cologne, we can see that Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stuttgart or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Stuttgart. When comparing the sizes of Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Stuttgart during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Stuttgart because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

Stuttgart is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Stuttgart averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Stuttgart. In the summer, Stuttgart often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Stuttgart gets 238 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Stuttgart gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Stuttgart and Cologne. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Stuttgart 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 the autumn, Stuttgart is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Stuttgart in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Stuttgart usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Stuttgart gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stuttgart usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Stuttgart gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Stuttgart as well as Cologne. Many travelers come to Stuttgart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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 Stuttgart. In January, Stuttgart is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Stuttgart average around 3°C (38°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Stuttgart often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Stuttgart gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Stuttgart usually gets less rain in January than Cologne. Stuttgart gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stuttgart or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Stuttgart are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stuttgart in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Stuttgart is a little warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Stuttgart averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Stuttgart usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during spring. Stuttgart gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stuttgart usually receives more rain than Cologne. Stuttgart gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Stuttgart