Romantic Getaway: 3 Days in Cologne, Germany

Experience timeless love in the charm of Cologne, Germany.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bienvenue à Cologne

  • Check into Excelsior Hotel Ernst, located in the heart of Cologne by the Cathedral
  • Take a romantic stroll through the old town, Altstadt, and stop to admire the colorful houses along the Rhine
  • Visit the Chocolate Museum and indulge in the delicious treats on display
  • Have dinner at Die Fette Kuh, known for its juicy burgers and craft beer selection
  • End the night with a nightcap at the Harry's New York Bar located inside the hotel
Day 2

Art and Architecture

  • Start the day with a visit to the Museum Ludwig to see modern art and photography
  • Cross the Hohenzollern Bridge and take a picture with the Love Locks before exploring the other side of the Rhine
  • Visit the Cologne Cathedral and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city
  • Have lunch at Restaurant Wein am Rhein for German cuisine and wine
  • Take a stroll through the Rheinauhafen area and admire the unique architecture of the buildings
Day 3

Shop and Sip

  • Start the day shopping at the Belgian Quarter for boutique shops and trendy fashion
  • Visit the Fragrance Museum Farina Haus, where Eau de Cologne was invented in the 18th century
  • Have lunch at Brauhaus Früh am Dom for traditional breweries and hearty German fare
  • Take a scenic boat tour on the Rhine River
  • Indulge in wine tasting at Weinhaus Brungs, a cozy spot to relax and enjoy local wines.

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

Budget-friendly Fun in Cologne: A 5-day Journey

Cologne, Germany offers plenty of affordable attractions for budget-conscious travelers. Visiting its iconic Cologne Cathedral, wandering around the Altstadt (Old Town), and exploring the charming Rheinauhafen district are all free and enjoyable experiences. Hostels and budget hotels provide affordable accommodation options, and visitors can also sample local cuisine at affordable prices through street vendors and traditional taverns.

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.

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.

Cologne: 5 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

Cologne, Germany offers a vibrant and family-friendly destination for an unforgettable trip. The city is well-known for its stunning Cologne Cathedral, a World Heritage site that both kids and adults will marvel at. Families can also have a blast at the Cologne Zoo, explore interactive museums like the Chocolate Museum, and enjoy boat tours along the Rhine River with breathtaking views of the city.