Cologne-4-day-itinerary

August 5, 2024

Day 1: Explore the Old Town and Rhine River

9:00 AM: Start your day at the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour of the interior and climb up to the cathedral’s southern tower for breathtaking views.
11:00 AM: Visit the Old Town (Altstadt), where you’ll find charming streets, historic buildings, and lively squares.

1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Früh am Dom, a historic beer hall located in the heart of the Old Town. Try their traditional Kölsch beer and enjoy local dishes like Himmel un Ääd (heaven and earth).
2:30 PM: Take a stroll along the Rhine River and enjoy the views of the city’s picturesque waterfront.

7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Freddy Schaub’s, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern German cuisine.
9:00 PM: End your day with a drink at Pfefferhaus, a cozy pub located in the Old Town, offering a wide selection of beers and live music.

Hotel am Dom (3)*: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the Old Town, within walking distance to the Cologne Cathedral.
Residence Inn by Marriott Cologne (4)*: A stylish hotel featuring modern rooms and suites, with a fitness center and free breakfast.

Day 2: Art and Culture

9:00 AM: Visit the Museum Ludwig, which features an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Warhol.
11:30 AM: Head to the Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum), located near the Cathedral. The museum showcases Roman artifacts and mosaics from the city’s rich history.

1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Tavern am Markt, a cozy restaurant serving traditional German cuisine in the heart of the Old Town.
2:30 PM: Explore the Kunst-Station Sankt Peter (KSU), an alternative art space featuring contemporary art exhibitions and performances.

7:00 PM: Dine at Schulz-Krebs, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
9:00 PM: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cologne’s Friesenviertel neighborhood, known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Cologne Airport (CGN): Located about 15 km from the city center, with frequent connections to major European cities.
Public Transportation: Cologne has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can use the VRS ticket app or purchase a day pass for unlimited travel.

Language: While many locals speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic German phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Auf Wiedersehen” (goodbye).
Weather: Cologne experiences mild winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly and enjoy the city’s many outdoor attractions.
Food: Don’t miss trying traditional Kölsch beer and local dishes like Himmel un Ääd, Halve Hahn (a bread roll with cheese), or Käsekrainer (a sausage).

Day 3: Parks and Gardens

9:00 AM: Visit the Flora-Tower, a historic tower located in the Flora Park. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from its rooftop platform.
11:30 AM: Explore the beautiful Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten), featuring over 6,000 plant species and a tranquil atmosphere.

1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Taverne am Flora-Turm, a cozy restaurant located in the heart of the park.
2:30 PM: Take a stroll through the Rheinpark, a picturesque park along the Rhine River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant am Rhein, a stylish restaurant serving modern German cuisine with stunning river views.
9:00 PM: End your day with a drink at Kolner Kiez, a lively neighborhood featuring bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Hotel Flandrischer Hof (4)*: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the city, within walking distance to the Rhine River.
Q! Hotel Cologne (3)*: A stylish hotel featuring modern rooms and suites, with a fitness center and free breakfast.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

9:00 AM: Visit the Cologne Market (Kölner Markt), one of Germany’s largest markets. Browse stalls selling local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
11:30 AM: Explore the Hohe Strasse, a shopping street featuring high-end boutiques, department stores, and specialty shops.

1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Restaurant am Markt, a cozy restaurant serving traditional German cuisine in the heart of the market.
2:30 PM: Visit the Friedrichshofen Shopping Center, an upscale shopping mall featuring international brands and local designers.

7:00 PM: Dine at Restaurant im Gartenhaus, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
9:00 PM: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cologne’s Ehrenfeld neighborhood, known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted based on your preferences and interests.