A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Cologne for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne are both popular with visitors, Cologne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cologne is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) 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. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

The Cologne Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Thiva (Thebes). It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Cologne know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a city with good options for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Cologne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Students?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a great destination for students. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Cologne. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not popular with students.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is very popular for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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.

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Cologne

Cologne is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in Cologne than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Cologne 1-3

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

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

Because Cologne is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

In Thiva (Thebes), 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 Thiva (Thebes) has to offer.

Cologne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Cologne. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Cologne or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Cologne is €161. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Cologne 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Cologne 182
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Cologne


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cologne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Cologne 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cologne

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cologne:

  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Bonn hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Bonn hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109
  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Cologne hotels - Round-trip Private Transfer : $98
  • Cologne hotels to Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Superior Private Transfer from Cologne City to Dortmund City: $64
  • Transfer from Cologne Airport CGN to Cologne City by Luxury Car: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

Prices for flights to both Cologne and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Cologne 50

Typical Food Prices in Cologne

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cologne:


  • Dinner
    14
  • Donner Kebab
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cologne

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cologne.

  • Hard Rock Café with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Hard Rock Cafe Cologne With Set Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Köln Südstadt kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Südstadt Food Tour: $481

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Cologne 20

Tours and Activities in Cologne

Here are a few actual costs in Cologne for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Cologne Walking Tour: The essential and unmissable one: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Original funky-fun Free Tour of Cologne: $3.21
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Tour: $5.88
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Cologne Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Aachen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Horrors of World War II Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.48
  • Cologne Scavenger Hunt and Self Guided Walking Tour on your Phone: $7.63
  • Aachen Scavenger Hunt and Self Guided Walking Tour on your Phone: $7.63

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Cologne 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Cologne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cologne:

  • Old Town Walking Tour with Brewery and Kölsch Beer: $18
  • Public brewery tour in Cologne in English: $18
  • Public brewery tour in German in Cologne: $18
  • Guided tour of the old town with a visit to the brewery in Cologne: $19
  • Old Town Walking Tour inkl Brewery Visit: $24
  • Entertaining Brewery Tour: Feel Good Package including local beer: $27
  • South Cologne Walking Tour with brewery visit: $27
  • Pub Crawl Cologne Including Admission Fee for Bars and Shots: $27
  • Brewery Tour with 3 Kölsch Beer Tastings: $29
  • Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting and Halven Hahn: $31
  • The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour: $32
  • The Legendary Kölsch Brewery Tour: $33


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

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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Cologne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Cologne 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cologne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 19°C (67°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Cologne 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Cologne. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Cologne because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Cologne can be very cold. Thiva (Thebes) is much warmer than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Cologne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Cologne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Cologne. The spring months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Cologne 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Cologne and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Cologne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (45°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)