Cologne-3-day-itinerary

Cologne 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City Center

  • Morning: Start at the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour inside the cathedral and climb up to the south tower for breathtaking views.
  • Lunch: Head to the nearby Old Town (Altstadt) and try some traditional German cuisine like schnitzel or sausages at Götterspiel restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum), which features an impressive collection of Roman artifacts. Afterwards, stroll along the Rhine River promenade and enjoy the city’s scenic views.
  • Evening: End the day with a visit to the lively Heumarkt square, where you can find street performers, food stalls, and bars.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Beer

  • Morning: Visit the Wallraf-Richartz Museum (Wallraf-Richartz-Museum), which boasts an impressive collection of European art from the 13th to 20th centuries.
  • Lunch: Head to the trendy Belgische Viertel neighborhood, known for its boutique shops and cafes. Try some delicious Belgian waffles at Café Wohlgenannt.
  • Afternoon: Take a brewery tour at Früh am Dom, one of Cologne’s oldest breweries. Learn about the brewing process and sample some of their famous Kölsch beer.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Maredo, a cozy restaurant serving modern German cuisine.

Day 3: Castles, Parks, and More Beer

  • Morning: Visit the majestic Museum Ludwig, which features an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso and Warhol.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and head to the scenic Stadtgarten park, where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
  • Afternoon: Take a short tram ride ( Line 12 or 15) to the Schloss Deutz, a beautiful castle with stunning views of the Rhine River. Afterwards, visit the nearby Brauhaus Sion, another iconic Cologne brewery.
  • Evening: End your trip with a scenic sunset cruise on the Rhine River.

Where to Stay

  • Budget: Stay at Jugendherberge Köln-Deutz, a modern hostel located near the city center.
  • Mid-range: Book a room at Hotel Im Wasserturm, a charming hotel in a historic building.
  • Luxury: Treat yourself to Excelsior Hotel Ernst, a 5-star hotel with elegant rooms and a great location.

Transportation

  • Airport: Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is approximately 15 km from the city center. Take the S-Bahn train (S13 or S19) or a taxi to reach the city.
  • Public Transport: Use the KölnCard, which grants you free public transport and discounts on attractions.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Cologne Carnival: If you’re visiting in February or March, don’t miss the colorful Cologne Carnival celebrations!
  • Rhine River Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour to explore the city’s scenic waterfront.
  • Christmas Markets: Visit Cologne’s festive Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmarkt) during the winter season.
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Enjoy your trip to Cologne!