Cologne on a Budget: A Day of History and Fun

Experience the beauty of Cologne without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Cologne in a Day

  • Start with a traditional German breakfast at Cafe Fridolin, with delicious bread and sausage options.
  • Head to the world-famous Cologne Cathedral, marvel at the architecture and climb the tower for stunning city views.
  • Take a stroll along the Rhine River, stopping to snap photos and admire street performers.
  • Explore the historic Old Town, including the charming Alter Markt square and the quirky Heinzelmännchen fountain.
  • Indulge in a classic German lunch at Fruh am Dom, with schnitzel, sauerkraut, and Kölsch beer.
  • End the day with a visit to the Cologne Chocolate Museum, learning about the sweet history and sampling some treats.

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 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.

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 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.

3-Day Cologne: Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

As a thriving hub of culture, Cologne offers tourists an immersive experience that blends its rich history and contemporary lifestyle. From its iconic gothic cathedral to the bustling pedestrian streets, the city offers visitors a plethora of attractions, including museums, galleries, and a thriving nightlife scene. Whether you're looking to explore the beautiful Rhine River, indulge in delicious German cuisine, or simply soak up the city's unique atmosphere, Cologne is a must-visit destination for any avid traveler.