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

Should you visit York or Cologne?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Cologne?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cologne than York. Cologne is bigger than York, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cologne is better known for its shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while York is more popular for its food and historical sights. York is well known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Cologne is well known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Also, Cologne is famous for The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is York different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both York and Cologne have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

York offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York 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, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Both York and Cologne are high quality when it comes to partying.

York offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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.

Is York or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

York 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, York offers plenty to see. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

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 York or Cologne?

Cologne is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Cologne Better for Christmas?

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

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. 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.

York does not offer Christmas activities.

Is York or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a world-class destination for its Christmas markets. However, York 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.

York does not offer Christmas markets.

Is York or Cologne Better for Families?

York is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, York is a very family-friendly destination. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

Cologne is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is York or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit York frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

York is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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 York or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. However, York 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.

York is not popular with students.

Is York 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, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is York or Cologne a more walkable city?

Cologne is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or York?

How long in York or Cologne?

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

Families should spend more time in York than Cologne. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in York, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in York or Cologne?

In York, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Cologne is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in York or Cologne?

In York, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that York has to offer.

Cologne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Cologne?

York 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun big city of Cologne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting York. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.

The fun city of Cologne offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, York or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Cologne. The summer months attract visitors to York because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

In July, York is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than Cologne. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Cologne. The shopping scene are the main draw to York 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.

York is cooler than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, York often gets more sunshine than Cologne. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to York 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 York. In the winter, York is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives less rain than Cologne. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and York during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cologne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, York is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Cologne. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and York