Discover Cologne's Charm in One Perfect Day

Experience the vibrant and historic city of Cologne in the heart of Germany.

22 April 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Cologne in One Day

  • Start the day with a visit to the iconic Cologne Cathedral one of Germany's most famous landmarks and enjoy stunning views from the top.
  • Take a stroll in the Old Town and explore the colorful streets lined with traditional German buildings, cafes, and shops.
  • Check out the Museum Ludwig and immerse yourself in contemporary art, including works by Picasso and Warhol.
  • Enjoy the picturesque views of Rhine River from the Hohenzollern Bridge and lock a love padlock on the fence for luck.
  • Satisfy your taste buds at Früh am Dom with their delicious traditional German dish, Haxen roasted pork knuckle and a pint of their famous Kölsch beer.
  • End the day with a visit to the Chocolate Museum and indulge in the world-famous chocolate made by Lindt, while learning about the history of chocolate making.
  • Cologne is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, and it is possible to explore all its charms in just one day! Don't miss out on the chance to experience this iconic German city.

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.

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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.

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Explore the charm of Cologne, Germany on a limited budget by taking a stroll along the Rhine river, which offers stunning views of the city's skyline. Visit the Gothic-style Cologne Cathedral, which is free to enter and marvel at its impressive architecture. Spend your evenings in the lively Old Town, where you can indulge in authentic German cuisine and local beer at budget-friendly prices.

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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.