Nightlife in Cologne vs Nightlife in Düsseldorf? Which city should I pick?

Hi! I'm planning a long weekend trip to the Rhine-Ruhr area and will be staying in Cologne or Düsseldorf (my day trip will be to another city). My idea is to stay in a city that has a "better" nightlife, and if I stay in that city, I will experience it. My definition of a "good nightlife" is a busy city center at night with lots of people, lots of busy pubs, bars, clubs (could be any music genre: from commercials to techno raves, etc.) - just lots of people enjoying Good life time. I'd rather have a place like that than go to a quiet downtown area or venture into an underground club in an uneven part of town. So, would it be better for me to stay in Cologne or Düsseldorf? Thanks!

Do you understand the consequences of asking that question?

OP unknowingly sparked a battle between two Reddit communities.

: when it comes to a city with an unending chain of clubs and bars, Düsseldorf is the place to go! We even have a song about it!

Cologne is way ahead of Düsseldorf when it comes to nightlife. You'll find more clubs, parties, and people out on any given night. Düsseldorf is better if you're looking for a super fancy night out, with top-notch bars and nightclubs. On the weekends, the Altstadt in Düsseldorf has lots of bars and small clubs, but it's mainly tourists and bachelor-party goers. The locals usually stay away.

I haven't been to Düsseldorf's nightlife, so I can't confirm this. However, I've heard that it's more difficult for Indians and people from the Middle East to get into downtown clubs in Düsseldorf. This could be wrong, so be sure to check before you go.

Cologne is bigger than Düsseldorf. To hear less mainstream music, go to Cologne. Bochum and the "Bermuda Dreieck" near the main station are great options too. They are close to the station and easy to get to.

of Germany

Cologne is a major techno music hub in Germany.

Didn't I think that was the same city?

I'm from Cologne, and I can tell you that comparing the two cities isn't fair. So, if you want to enjoy the nightlife, it's best to go to Düsseldorf. Cologne may not be the best option in terms of safety.