5 Days of Fun in Cologne, Germany

Discover history, culture, and the city's signature cologne in the heart of Germany.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting to know Cologne

  • Check-in at Lindner Hotel Dom Residence
  • Visit Cologne Cathedral marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture and climb up the tower for breathtaking views of the city
  • Wander through the colorful Old Town and grab a bite to eat at one of the quaint cafes or breweries
  • Explore the Roman-Germanic Museum to learn about the city's ancient history
  • End the day with a scenic river cruise on the Rhine
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Start the day with a traditional German breakfast at Café Fassbender
  • Visit Museum Ludwig home to some of the world's most impressive contemporary art collections
  • Stroll through tranquil gardens of Botanical Garden Flora
  • Take in a show at the Cologne Opera House or Philharmonic hall
  • Dine at the chic and trendy Wartesaal am Dom, serving contemporary European cuisine
Day 3

Science and Technology

  • Begin the morning with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Schmitz
  • Experience the wonders of science at the interactive museum Odysseum
  • Explore the Museum of Applied Arts and browse through the exquisite collection of design and crafts
  • Catch a 3D film at the Cinedom cinema complex, one of the largest in Germany
  • Relax at the Kölsch brewery Früh am Dom and enjoy a famous local beer with some traditional German fare
Day 4

Excursions out of Cologne

  • Head over to the charming medieval town of Monschau for a day trip, indulge in delicious chocolates and visit the ancient castle
  • Drive to the nearby town of Brühl, home to the magnificent 18th century Augustusburg Palace and Falkenlust hunting lodge
  • Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Eifel National Park and enjoy some of the breathtaking countryside
  • Have a wine tasting session at a local winery in the Ahr Valley, known for its high-quality wine production
  • End the day with dinner at Hanse-Stube in the Excelsior Hotel, known for its exceptional gourmet cuisine
Day 5

Shopping and Relaxation

  • Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at the minimalist café Bülow Carré
  • Shop for some unique souvenirs at the vibrant Neumarkt and Schildergasse shopping districts
  • Relax and unwind at Claudius Therme, a luxurious Roman-style spa
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at the modern Rhein-Center Mall
  • Feast on some delicious pan-Asian cuisine at Vapiano, a trendy Italian-inspired restaurant chain

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

The Fantastic Family Day Trip to Cologne, Germany

A family friendly trip to Cologne, Germany offers a diverse range of activities for all ages. Visitors can explore the picturesque Old Town and marvel at the iconic Cologne Cathedral, which offers panoramic views of the city. Additionally, families can enjoy a visit to the Chocolate Museum, take boat tours along the Rhine River, and visit the Cologne Zoo for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

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.

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.

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.