Weekend Getaway to Experience Cologne, Germany

Discover the heart of Rhineland in Cologne.

03 May 2023

Cologne, Germany offers a great mix of historical and modern attractions. A visit to the Cologne Cathedral is a must, followed by a stroll along the picturesque Rhine River. Beer lovers can indulge in the local brews and experience the lively nightlife scene in areas such as the famous Ehrenfeld and Belgisches Viertel neighborhoods.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Cologne's Old Town

  • Hotel: Stay at the art-deco luxury hotel “Excelsior Hotel Ernst” to experience refined luxury, with a twist of quirky interior design.
  • Tour the city's most quintessential landmark, the Gothic-style Cologne Cathedral, a symbol of the city's resilience and history.
  • Stroll through the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town “Altstadt”, discovering wonderful local shops, cafes, and bars.
  • Visit the historical Town Hall & Cologne's Roman Germanic Museum with exciting exhibits from the Roman era.
  • Relish in the scent of Cologne's famous “Water of Cologne” at the Fragrance museum, where you can create your own personalized scent.
  • Indulge in local delicacies such as Himmel un Äd (Heaven and Earth), a mix of pureed apples and potatoes, and finish with a Kölsch beer at 'Fruh am Dom', brewery.
Day 2

Nature, Art and fun at Cologne.

  • Experience the beauty of nature with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, featuring plants from around the world, and a beautiful butterfly house.
  • Enjoy modern art at the stunning Museum Ludwig and explore the huge collection of Pablo Picasso's works.
  • Discover Cologne from a different perspective, from the sky in a Hot Air Balloon ride.
  • Round off a great day of fun with family and friends at the Cologne Chocolate Museum, indulging in chocolate tastings, workshops, and sculptures.
  • Finally, relax at the lively 'Gilden im Zims' eatery and enjoy German cuisine, with hand-poured wines and fabulous cocktails.
  • There you go folks! Your perfect 2-day itinerary to explore the city of Cologne, encompassing its history, culture, art, and nature. No doubt, you'll leave Cologne feeling energized, inspired, and fulfilled.

How to get there

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.

More travel plans

Cologne on a Budget: A Day of History and Fun

Experience a historic and vibrant city with a limited budget by visiting Cologne, Germany. Discover the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, explore the picturesque Old Town, and enjoy the lively riverside promenade. Stay in affordable accommodations and indulge in delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank.

Discover Cologne's Charm in One Perfect Day

A trip to Cologne, Germany as a tourist would offer the chance to explore the city's rich history, with its stunning Gothic-style cathedral, Romanesque churches, and medieval Old Town. Visitors can sample delicious local cuisine, such as Kölsch beer and hearty sausages, at traditional beer halls and restaurants. The city is also famous for its lively carnivals and numerous cultural events throughout the year, making it a vibrant and exciting place to visit.

A Romantic Weekend in Cologne, Germany

Enjoy a romantic getaway to the romantic city of Cologne in Germany, filled with rich cultural experiences, picturesque sights and unique cuisines. Explore the iconic Cologne Cathedral, take a leisurely walk along the romantic Rhine River and indulge in traditional spa treatments at the historic Roman Baths. End your day with romantic dinner at the charming local restaurants serving delicious German delicacies.

The Ultimate 4-Day Cologne Adventure!

As a tourist in Cologne, Germany, visitors can explore the city's iconic Gothic Cathedral, view impressive art pieces at the Museum Ludwig, and stroll along the picturesque Rhine River. The city is also known for its famous chocolate museum, where visitors can learn about the history and production of chocolate while indulging in delicious samples. With its rich architecture, cultural heritage, and scenic views, Cologne is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Germany.