Cologne Carnival: A Whimsical 3-Day Family Adventure!

Discover Cologne's magic together on an unforgettable family adventure.

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Cologne, Germany offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and amusement. Start your journey by exploring the iconic Cologne Cathedral, a stunning masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Immerse your kids in a fun-filled day at the Chocolate Museum, where they can learn about the history of chocolate and even create their own personalized bars. Wrap up the trip by strolling along the vibrant Rhine River promenade and enjoy the lively atmosphere, street performances, and stunning views of the city.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Time to Embrace the Quirky Cologne!

  • Check into a fabulous family-friendly hotel, like Hotel Stadtpalais, where whimsical decor and cozy rooms await.
  • Begin your Cologne adventure at Chocolate Museum, where even Granny’s chocolate cravings will be cured.
  • Head to Kölner Dom, the magnificent Gothic cathedral, and let the kids run wild chasing gargoyles.
  • Wander through the fun-filled streets of the Belgian Quarter, splurging on vintage treasures and quirky souvenirs.
  • Treat your taste buds to a culinary delight at Früh am Dom, indulging in hearty German dishes and lip-smacking Kölsch beer.
  • End your day in fragrance heaven with a visit to Farina Fragrance Museum, a scent-sational journey through history.
Day 2

Cologne's Legends and Laughter

  • Start your day at Schokoladenmuseum breakfast buffet, chocoholic’s dream come true.
  • Unleash your inner child at EL-DE Haus, a museum adoringly dedicated to cartoons and comic strips.
  • Board a boat at Rheinauhafen, enjoying a leisurely cruise along the mighty River Rhine, waving at quirky passing ships.
  • Discover the secrets of the legend of the Cologne Carnival at Festkomitee Kölner Karneval, where imagination comes alive.
  • Sample lip-smacking local treats at the bustling Cologne Central Market, finding delights a foodie’s heart will adore.
  • Shake a leg and join in the dance at the Live Music Hall, watching live concerts ranging from jazz to punk rock.
Day 3

Parks, Picnics, and Pints!

  • Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at Da Damiano, a charming café specializing in delicious Italian delicacies.
  • Embrace nature's beauty at the Botanical Gardens, where kids can go leaf-rolling down the hills while you admire exotic plants.
  • Meander through the Japanese Garden, a serene oasis for a picnic lunch surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Hohenzollern Bridge, stopping to admire love locks and stealing a kiss with your honey.
  • Refuel at Gaffel am Dom, a traditional brewhouse, where you can devour mouthwatering regional dishes and savor their famous Kölsch.
  • End your Cologne escapade on a magical note by attending a mesmerizing performance at the Cologne Opera, where dreams come alive.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Cologne

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.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5 Days of Fun in Cologne, Germany

As a tourist visiting Cologne, the first thing to see is the breathtaking Cologne Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is best known for its historic old town, which is home to traditional German pubs and a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Rhine River, shop for souvenirs, and taste Authentic German cuisine.

Romantic Getaway: 3 Days in Cologne, Germany

Cologne is a picturesque German city, perfect for a romantic getaway. Enjoy stunning views of the historic Rhine River and soak up the atmosphere of the city's charming Old Town. Savor a glass of Kölsch beer, visit the famous Cologne Cathedral, and treat yourself to a romantic boat ride down the river.

Cologne on a Budget: A 2-Day Adventure

Exploring Cologne on a limited budget is possible, thanks to the city's affordable public transportation and a range of free activities. Stop by the iconic Cologne Cathedral, wander throughout the charming Old Town, and take a stroll along the river Rhine. For budget-friendly eats, head to local markets and food trucks for delicious and wallet-friendly bites.

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.