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

Should you visit Zermatt or Cologne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Cologne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

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.

Zermatt and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Cologne?

Both Cologne and Zermatt have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cologne is more popular for its museums, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Cologne and is known for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Cologne is well known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River.

How is Zermatt different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Cologne Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, Cologne is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Zermatt should be on your list. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Cologne is not a skiing destination.

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

Cologne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

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

Zermatt is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Zermatt is an experience not to be missed. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

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 Zermatt or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Cologne are great when it comes to partying.

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

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 Zermatt or Cologne Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is well known for its resorts. However, Cologne is not a resort destination.

Zermatt is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Cologne is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Cologne is very good for its historic old town. However, Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cologne to see the historical 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.

Zermatt does not have a historic old town.

Is Zermatt or Cologne Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Cologne is not a hiking destination.

People visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Cologne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Cologne?

Both Zermatt and Cologne are great shopping destinations.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Cologne is well-known for its shopping. 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 Zermatt or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Zermatt 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.

Zermatt does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Zermatt or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Zermatt 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.

Zermatt does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Zermatt or Cologne Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Cologne.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. 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 Zermatt or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Zermatt makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

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 Zermatt or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Zermatt is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

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 Zermatt or Cologne Better for Students?

Cologne is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Cologne is very popular with students. 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.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

Cologne is very popular for its public transit. Also, Zermatt is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Zermatt or Cologne a more walkable city?

Zermatt 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 Zermatt on foot is easy. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

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 Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Cologne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Cologne. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cologne.

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

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

One day in Zermatt or Cologne?

In Zermatt, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Zermatt or Cologne?

In Zermatt, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt 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 Zermatt or Cologne?

Zermatt is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zermatt has to offer. 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 Zermatt or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zermatt. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Zermatt. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zermatt and Cologne, we can see that Zermatt is more expensive. And not only is Cologne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cologne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cologne 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 Zermatt would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zermatt than you might in Cologne.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt 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 Zermatt 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 Zermatt or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Cologne. Most visitors come to Zermatt for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Zermatt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Cologne. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zermatt or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Cologne. The autumn months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

Zermatt is a little warmer than Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Zermatt usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. It's quite cold in Zermatt in the winter. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Cologne. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zermatt or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Zermatt during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Zermatt. Zermatt usually gets more rain in April than Cologne. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Zermatt