Cologne: 5 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

Discover family fun in Cologne, where culture and adventure collide!

19 July 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic Heartbeat

  • Check into the Novotel Cologne City Hotel, a family-friendly oasis in the heart of Cologne.
  • Embark on a riveting adventure at Cologne Cathedral, a colossal masterpiece of Gothic architecture that will leave you breathless.
  • Dive into the colorful realm of the Old Town, where cobblestone streets are imbued with charm, and quaint cafés beckon you for a schnitzel feast.
  • Unleash your inner shopaholic on Schildergasse, Cologne's main shopping street, where an assortment of boutiques and big-name brands await your retail cravings.
  • Indulge your senses at the Chocolate Museum, as you feast your eyes on chocolate sculptures and fulfill your Willy Wonka dreams with delicious tastings.
Day 2

Of Art, Adventure, and River Rhine

  • Grab a hearty German breakfast at Café Riese and fuel up for an artistic escapade.
  • Visit the Museum Ludwig, a treasure trove of modern art, featuring iconic works from Warhol, Picasso, and the enigmatic Dali.
  • Embark on a thrilling boat tour along the majestic River Rhine, immersing yourself in the stunning panorama of Cologne's skyline.
  • Spend a whimsical afternoon at Cologne Zoo, where you can frolic with penguins, roar with lions, and witness firsthand the wonders of the animal kingdom.
  • Savor a scrumptious dinner at Brauhaus Früh am Dom, where authentic Cologne cuisine and refreshing Kölsch beer await to tantalize your taste buds.
Day 3

A Day for Castles and Gardens

  • Embark on a fairytale journey to Schloss Drachenburg, a jaw-dropping sight nestled atop the Drachenfels hill, offering breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley.
  • Immerse yourself in nature's splendor at the Botanical Gardens Flora, a serene oasis where you can marvel at exotic plant species and unwind amidst lush greenery.
  • Dine like royalty at Schloss Lerbach, a Michelin-starred restaurant housed in a majestic castle, serving exquisite cuisine that will transport your taste buds to heaven.
Day 4

Tales of Brews and History

  • Embark on a spirited pilgrimage to the picturesque Früh am Dom brewery, where the heavenly scent of hops and malt embrace your nostrils, and brewing secrets are revealed.
  • Unravel Cologne's tumultuous past at the Roman-Germanic Museum, housing an impressive collection of ancient Roman artifacts that transport you back in time.
  • Stroll along the charming Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with love locks, and capture eternal memories of Cologne's enchanting riverside.
  • Treat your little ones to a visit to Odysseum, Cologne's science adventure museum, where captivating exhibits and mind-blowing experiments mesmerize young and old alike.
  • Feast on traditional German delights at Brauhaus zur Malzmühle, where sausages sizzle, pretzels beckon, and Cologne's vibrant spirit fills the air.
Day 5

Farewell, Cologne!

  • Before bidding adieu to Cologne, embark on a hot air balloon ride over the city, experiencing a bird's-eye view of the majestic skyline and the winding Rhine River.
  • Stroll through the vibrant Belgian Quarter, exploring quirky boutiques, hip cafés, and street art that breathe life into this bohemian neighborhood.
  • Savor a delightful farewell lunch at dasWirtshaus am Bürgerpark, a charming restaurant serving traditional German fare in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the Rheinpark, savoring the tranquility and lush green spaces, as you bid Cologne adieu, with a heart full of cherished memories. Enjoy your journey!

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.

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.

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.

A Romantic Day in Cologne: A Perfect Getaway

Experience a romantic excursion to Cologne, Germany, with your loved one, and fall in love with the city's stunning architecture and charming atmosphere. Indulge in a candlelit dinner by the Rhine River, sip on locally-brewed Kölsch beer, and visit the breathtaking Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.