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

Should you visit Valletta 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 Valletta 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Valletta and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne. Although Valletta and Cologne are popular destinations, Cologne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cologne is very popular for its nightlife, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Valletta attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Valletta 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. Valletta is famous for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Valletta different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Valletta on the map. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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.

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

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Valletta is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Cologne has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Valletta or Cologne Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a town with a few options for the beach. However, Cologne is not a beach destination.

The beach in Valletta is worth checking out. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Valletta 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, Valletta offers plenty to see. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 Valletta or Cologne?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Valletta and Cologne.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Valletta. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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 Valletta or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Valletta or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is terrific for visiting Christmas markets. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Valletta or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta 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 Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Valletta or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Valletta makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Valletta is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

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 Valletta or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Valletta or Cologne a more walkable city?

Valletta is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Valletta on foot is easy. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Valletta or Cologne?

In Valletta, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town 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 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 Valletta or Cologne?

In Valletta, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valletta has to offer.

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 Valletta or Cologne?

Valletta is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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 Valletta or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valletta. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta 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 Valletta or Cologne?

Cologne has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Valletta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Cologne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Valletta is a little warmer than Cologne in the summer. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the summer, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Cologne. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Cologne. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Also, 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 the autumn, Valletta is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valletta in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Cologne averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during autumn. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Valletta usually receives more rain than Cologne. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valletta or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Cologne. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, 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. In January, Valletta is generally much warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 13°C (55°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets more rain in January than Cologne. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

Valletta is much warmer than Cologne in the spring. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during spring. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valletta usually receives less rain than Cologne. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Valletta