Cologne Travel Plans

This city may not be spelled like the perfume, but it sure does smell just as good. Get ready to experience Cologne, a place where your senses will be tickled in more ways than one.

Save destination

Best of lists

Best 20 things to do in Cologne, Germany

Welcome to Cologne, the city that's as charming as a fairytale and as buzzing as a bee in a lederhosen! If your senses are longing for adventure, fear not, for we bring you the crème de la crème of this wonderful city. First, don't let those whoops of laughter fool you, the Chocolate Museum is a delightful spot that takes you on a cocoa-infused journey like no other. Next up, climb the dizzying heights of the Cologne Cathedral, making sure you don't lose your breath or your underpants on the way. Lastly, grab your daring spirit and explore the rustic streets of the Belgian Quarter, where funky shops, mouthwatering flavors, and hipster vibes will leave you saying "Guten Tag, Cologne!"

The very best 12 nightlife spots in Cologne, Germany

Welcome to Cologne, the city that knows how to party! Prepare yourself for a wild night out as we unveil the best 12 nightlife spots in town. From lively beer gardens where you can cheers with the locals to quirky underground clubs that will make you question reality, Cologne has it all. So grab your dancing shoes, unleash your inner party animal, and let the night unfold in this vibrant city full of possibilities.

15 perfect restaurants in Cologne, Germany

Prepare your taste buds for a grand culinary adventure in the charming city of Cologne! From delightful local favorites to sophisticated dining experiences, this article unveils the 15 best restaurants in town. Whether you're longing for mouthwatering Schnitzels or craving avant-garde creations, Cologne has got you covered – just remember, do not attempt to eat your screen while reading this delicious guide!

How long are you staying?

Romantic stays

Stays on a budget

Family-friendly stays

How to get to Cologne

Plane

The best way to reach Cologne, Germany by plane is to fly into Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN). Many airlines offer direct flights to CGN from major cities in Europe and beyond.

Car

Driving to Cologne is a great option as the city is well-connected to the rest of the country by the German autobahn. If you are driving from another country, you can take the A1 or A61 highways, which connect Cologne to the Netherlands and Belgium.

Train

Getting to Cologne by train is easy as the city has one of the best train connections in Germany. Cologne's main station is Cologne Hauptbahnhof, which is located in the city center and serves both national and international destinations.

Boat

While there are no direct boat connections to Cologne, you can take a river cruise down the Rhine to nearby cities like Bonn or Düsseldorf and then take a train or bus to Cologne. Cologne also has a large port, the Rheinauhafen, where you can dock your boat and explore the city.

Bus

Traveling to Cologne by bus is an affordable option with many coach companies operating routes to the city. The main bus station in Cologne is the Cologne Central Bus Station (ZOB), located near the train station and the city center.

Explore elsewhere

Stuttgart on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun and Adventure!

Stuttgart, Germany offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a rich combination of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. Explore the Mercedes-Benz Museum or the imposing Stuttgart Castle, providing children with an educational and enjoyable experience. The nearby Stuttgart Zoo and Wilhelma Gardens offer a delightful opportunity to interact with animals while enjoying beautiful landscapes, making it a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

Unraveling the Magic of Siegen: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Siegen, Germany offers a wonderful family-friendly trip with its charming mixture of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the Siegen Castle, a majestic fortress dating back to the 13th century, while enjoying stunning views of the city. Take your little ones to the Schlosspark, a beautiful park with playgrounds and a fairy tale fountain, ideal for picnicking and relaxing amidst nature.

Bergisch Gladbach on a Budget: Unleash the Charm!

Discover the hidden charms of Bergisch Gladbach through a budget-friendly trip. Start off with a visit to the historical Bensberg Castle, followed by a nature walk in the forested Reitersiefen Nature Reserve. Savor local specialties at affordable eateries like El Greco and Brauhaus am Bock for an authentic taste of German cuisine.

Discover Jena: A Romantic Weekend Getaway

A romantic trip to Jena, Germany offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the charming Old Town, visit the renowned Zeiss Planetarium, and take a stroll along the picturesque Saale River. End your days in a cozy hotel or charming bed and breakfast, enjoying local cuisine and fine wines.