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

Should you visit Zurich 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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Zurich and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Cologne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Zurich, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets and big city activities, while Zurich is known for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. 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 Zurich different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Zurich and Cologne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Cologne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Zurich or Cologne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich 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 Zurich is an experience not to be missed. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Cologne are superb when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Cologne Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for its music scene. However, Cologne is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Cologne is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Zurich 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, Zurich offers plenty to see. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

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 Zurich or Cologne?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cologne. 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 Zurich or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Zurich or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Zurich does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make Cologne very popular during this season. 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.

Zurich does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Zurich or Cologne Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Cologne are superb family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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.

Is Zurich or Cologne Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Cologne are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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.

Is Zurich or Cologne Better for Students?

Zurich is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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.

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

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Cologne has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere 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.

The public transit in Zurich can get you to most places easily. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Is Zurich or Cologne a more walkable city?

Zurich and Cologne both are superb when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Cologne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Cologne?

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Cologne?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Cologne?

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Cologne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Cologne?

Zurich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible big city of Cologne. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Zurich and Cologne, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich 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 Zurich Expensive? and Is Cologne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Cologne in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Zurich is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Cologne averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Cologne. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Cologne. Many travelers come to Zurich for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Zurich is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Cologne. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zurich 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. Zurich can get quite cold in the winter. Zurich is around the same temperature as Cologne in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Cologne fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Cologne. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Cologne in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Zurich is a little warmer than Cologne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Cologne averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Cologne. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Zurich