Cologne-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) or take a train from another German city
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in to your hotel (see recommendations below)
  • 10:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), one of Germany’s most famous landmarks
    • Take a guided tour (€8) or explore on your own
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Brauhaus Pfeffermill, a traditional German brewery with delicious food and beer
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum), which showcases ancient Roman artifacts and mosaics
    • Admission: €5
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Fritz, a modern German restaurant with a focus on local ingredients

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Mondial am Dom: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Cologne, within walking distance to the cathedral
    • Prices start from around €120 per night
  • Hotel im Wasserturm: A unique, 5-star hotel built into a historic water tower, with stunning views of the city

Transportation:

  • The most convenient way to get around is on foot or by public transportation (bus and tram)
  • Buy a Cologne Tourist Card (€10) for unlimited travel on public transportation for 24 hours
  • If you prefer to drive, parking fees range from €2-€5 per hour in designated areas

Things to Know:

  • Tipping: In Germany, it’s customary to tip around 5-10% in restaurants and bars
  • 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)
  • Safety: Cologne is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings

Tips:

  • Book tickets in advance: For popular attractions and restaurants to avoid long wait times
  • Try local specialties: Sample traditional German dishes like Kölnische Käse (Cologne cheese) and Printen (a type of gingerbread)
  • Explore beyond the city center: Visit the charming neighborhood of Lindenthal, known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere

Day 2: More Cologne

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the Hahnentor, a medieval gate that marks the entrance to the old town
    • Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and alleys surrounding the gate
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Gütersloh Museum (Museum für Kunst und Kultur), which showcases a collection of art and cultural artifacts from around the world
    • Admission: €5
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Das Viertel, a cozy restaurant serving traditional German cuisine with a modern twist
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Historisches Archiv der Stadt Köln (Historical Archive of the City of Cologne), which houses an impressive collection of historical documents and artifacts
    • Admission: €5
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Kaspar, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern, seasonal cuisine

Additional Tips:

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable German weather, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) in spring and autumn
  • Shopping: Visit the popular shopping street Schildergasse for a wide range of shops and boutiques
  • Nightlife: Experience Cologne’s vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the many bars or clubs, like Kodex or Tante

This itinerary provides a good balance of culture, history, food, and entertainment, but feel free to adjust it based on your personal preferences and interests. Enjoy your time in Cologne!