Cologne, Germany-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) or take a train from another German city
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in at your hotel, such as Hotel im Wipperfürth or Mercure Hotel Koeln City Friesenplatz
  • 11:00 AM: Start exploring the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Visit the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), one of the largest Gothic churches in Europe
    • Wander through the narrow streets and alleys of the Old Town, admiring the charming architecture and lively atmosphere

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a traditional German restaurant, such as Früh am Dom or Friesenplatz 3
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum), which showcases the history of Roman Cologne

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional German dinner at Restaurant Schängel
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the lively nightlife in the Old Town, with many bars and clubs to choose from

Day 2: Museums and Shopping

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Museum Ludwig, which features an impressive collection of modern art
    • See works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the nearby Farina Fragrance Museum (Förderinstitut für die deutsche Parfümerie)
    • Learn about the history of perfume-making in Cologne

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a café or restaurant in the Museum Quarter
  • 2:30 PM: Shop for souvenirs and local products at the Ehrenhof shopping center
    • Find unique gifts, traditional German candies, and authentic Kölnese souvenirs

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving international cuisine, such as Restaurant Mezzo
  • 9:00 PM: Relax with a drink or coffee at one of the many cafes in the city center

Day 3: Beer Halls and Parks

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Cologne Beer Hall (Früh am Dom), where you can enjoy a traditional German breakfast
    • Try a local beer or coffee, accompanied by bread and pastries
  • 10:30 AM: Explore the beautiful Flora Park (Florapark)
    • Stroll through the gardens and admire the variety of plants and flowers

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a restaurant serving traditional German cuisine, such as Restaurant Brauhaus
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Rhine Park (Rheinpark)
    • Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Rhine River and admire the views of the city

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving local specialties, such as Restaurant Schängel
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the lively nightlife in the Beer Hall area

Day 4: Castles and Nature

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the impressive Pfaffenberg Castle (Burg Pfaffenberg)
    • Explore the castle’s historic rooms, gardens, and scenic views
  • 11:30 AM: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the nearby Pfaffenberg Forest
    • Take in the sights and sounds of nature

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at a restaurant serving local cuisine, such as Restaurant Waldhaus
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Gummersbach Castle (Schloss Gummersbach)
    • Explore the castle’s historic rooms and beautiful gardens

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant serving international cuisine, such as Restaurant Mezzo
  • 9:00 PM: Relax with a drink or coffee in one of the many cafes in the city center

Day 5: Markets and Departure

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the lively Cologne Market (Kölner Wochenmarkt)
    • Browse the stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and local products
  • 11:30 AM: Have a farewell lunch at one of the many restaurants in the market area
  • 12:30 PM: Depart for the airport or another German city

Tips and Essentials

  • Getting Around: Use public transportation ( buses, trams, and trains) to get around the city. You can also walk or bike.
  • Safety: Cologne is a safe city, but be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
  • Language: Most locals speak English, but it’s always helpful to learn a few basic German phrases.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency.
  • Weather: Cologne has a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Pack accordingly.

Accommodation Options

Restaurant Options

Shopping Options

  • Local Markets: Visit the Cologne Market (Kölner Wochenmarkt) for fresh produce, flowers, and local products.
  • Shopping Centers: Explore the Ehrenhof shopping center for unique gifts, traditional German candies, and authentic Kölnese souvenirs.