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

Should you visit Vilnius or Cologne?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Vilnius and Cologne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Vilnius

Vilnius is a historic, religious, and surprising city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Vilnius and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vilnius or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Vilnius, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its museums, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Vilnius is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Vilnius 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. Vilnius is popular for its authentic old town and long running history.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Vilnius different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Vilnius. The city has fascinating museums relating to Soviet times. These include the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights and the Lithuanian Diaspora Art Museum. Other notable sights include the Three Crosses Monument and the St. Anne's and Bernardine Church Complex.

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

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Vilnius. The food is hearty with plenty of meat and potatoes. There are also soups and herring dishes as well as great desserts. Popular dishes in the area include cepelinai (meat filled potato dumplings), kibinai (a pastry), and potato pancakes.

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 Vilnius or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Vilnius and Cologne.

Vilnius has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The large student population is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene. You'll find most of the activity centered around three streets - Vilniaus, Islandijos and Vokiečių. These areas have a number of bars and clubs, and they draw the biggest crowds.

Cologne has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Vilnius or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Vilnius is well known for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Vilnius. The old town is filled with history, architecture, and churches. It's also where you'll find Vilnius University. At the heart of the area is Pilies Gatve (Castle Street), which has shopping, cafes, and 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 Vilnius or Cologne?

Cologne is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For quaint shops, head to old town, particularly around Pilies Gatve. The city also has an open air market, Kalvarijų Turgus, that is popular on Saturdays. There are also a few shopping malls around town.

Is Vilnius or Cologne Better for Christmas?

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

Cologne is a fantastic destination at 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.

Vilnius does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Vilnius or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Vilnius 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.

Vilnius does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Vilnius or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of historic sights, but once your kids have had their fill, you can head to one of the outdoor or indoor play areas in the city center. There's also a toy museum and an Energy and Technology Museum that kids will enjoy. After a busy day, make sure you grab some ice cream to lift everyone's spirits.

Is Vilnius or Cologne Better for Couples?

Vilnius and Cologne both good destinations for a couple.

Vilnius makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with viewpoints, from hill tops to towers, where you can enjoy romantic views over the landscape. You can also dine in a local restaurant or enjoy a picnic in one of the outdoor settings.

Cologne is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Vilnius or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Vilnius is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. For backpackers who want to escape the crowds, this off-the-beaten path European capital is a great option. It has history, charm, and an authenticity that is hard to find in a more touristy area. It's also an affordable city, with hostels and plenty of cheap places to eat.

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 Vilnius or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is notable for students. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Vilnius. The city is small but charming with a number of places where international students can study. It's an affordable city with a lively atmosphere and an authenticate and genuine personality.

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

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Vilnius has some public transit options. Bus and trolleybuses are available.

Is Vilnius or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Vilnius is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Vilnius is a somewhat walkable city. The old town is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Vilnius?

How long in Vilnius or Cologne?

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

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

In Vilnius, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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. 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.

A weekend in Vilnius or Cologne?

In Vilnius, 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 Vilnius has to offer.

Because Cologne 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 Cologne has to offer.

Five days in Vilnius or Cologne?

Vilnius 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 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.

A week in Vilnius or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vilnius. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vilnius. 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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Lithuania, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Vilnius or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Vilnius. When comparing the sizes of Vilnius 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 Vilnius 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 Vilnius or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Vilnius and Cologne. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vilnius this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cologne for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Vilnius is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vilnius in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Vilnius, it's very sunny this time of the year. Vilnius usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Vilnius gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vilnius usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cologne. Vilnius gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vilnius or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Vilnius as well as Cologne. Many travelers come to Vilnius for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Cologne in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Vilnius is generally much colder than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Vilnius average around 8°C (46°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Vilnius often gets less sunshine than Cologne. Vilnius gets 94 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cologne. Vilnius gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vilnius or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Vilnius are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Vilnius in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cologne can be very cold during winter. Vilnius can get quite cold in the winter. Vilnius is much colder than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Vilnius averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Vilnius usually receives less sunshine than Cologne during winter. Vilnius gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vilnius usually receives less rain than Cologne. Vilnius gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vilnius or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Vilnius during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Vilnius for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cologne because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Vilnius is cooler than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vilnius in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Vilnius often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Vilnius gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Vilnius usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Vilnius gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Vilnius