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

Should you visit Windsor or Cologne?

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

Should I visit Windsor 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.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Windsor and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Windsor or Cologne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cologne. Although Windsor and Cologne are both popular with visitors, Cologne has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cologne is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Cologne 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.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Windsor different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Windsor and Cologne.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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 Windsor or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Windsor and Cologne both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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 Windsor or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Windsor and Cologne.

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Cologne?

Cologne is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Windsor does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Cologne is not to be missed. 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.

Windsor does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Windsor or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, Windsor does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to Cologne specifically for the 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.

Windsor does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Windsor or Cologne Better for Families?

Cologne is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cologne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is well known for students. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Cologne can get you around easily. 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 Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Cologne a more walkable city?

Windsor and Cologne both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Cologne?

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

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

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. 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.

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 Windsor or Cologne?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Cologne?

Windsor 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.

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 Windsor or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. Since Windsor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Windsor or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Cologne in the Summer?

Both Cologne and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and 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, Windsor is around the same temperature as Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Windsor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives less rain than Cologne. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Windsor or Cologne in the Autumn?

Both Cologne and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Windsor 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, Windsor is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cologne. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Windsor or Cologne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Cologne. Many travelers come to Windsor for the museums 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 Windsor. Windsor is a little warmer than Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Cologne. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Windsor or Cologne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Cologne. Many visitors come to Windsor in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In the spring, Windsor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. Windsor gets 45 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 Windsor