Cologne-7-day-itinerary

Cologne 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Morning: Arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) and take the S-Bahn train (S13) to Hauptbahnhof, the main railway station in Cologne.
• Afternoon: Check-in at Hotel im Wasserturm, a unique hotel located in a historic water tower.
• Evening: Visit the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take a stroll along the nearby Rhine River.

Day 2: Roman History and Beer Culture

• Morning: Explore the Roman-Germanic Museum, which features an impressive collection of Roman artifacts.
• Afternoon: Visit the Cologne Brewery (Kölner Brauhaus) to learn about Cologne’s famous beer culture and sample some local brews.
• Evening: Enjoy traditional German cuisine at Brauhaus Sion, a cozy brewery restaurant.

Day 3: Museums and Parks

• Morning: Visit the Museum Ludwig, which features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
• Afternoon: Relax in the beautiful Stadtgarten Cologne, a large urban park with gardens, walking trails, and a lake.
• Evening: Head to the trendy Ehrenfeld neighborhood for dinner and drinks.

Day 4: Day Trip to Bonn

• Morning: Take the train (S13) to Bonn, the former capital of West Germany ( approx. 30 minutes journey).
• Afternoon: Visit the Bonn Minster, a beautiful Catholic church, and explore the historic city center.
• Evening: Return to Cologne and enjoy dinner at Restaurant Vendôme, a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 5: Markets and Shopping

• Morning: Visit the bustling Cologne Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt) (if traveling in December) or explore the Ehrenfeld Market, a weekly market offering local produce and crafts.
• Afternoon: Shop at Hohe Strasse, one of Cologne’s main shopping streets, or explore the trendy boutiques in the Belgian Quarter.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Le Moisson, a French-inspired bistro.

Day 6: Sports and Entertainment

• Morning: Visit the RheinEnergieStadion, home of the FC Köln football team, for a guided tour.
• Afternoon: Catch a show or concert at the Cologne Philharmonic (Kölner Philharmonie) or explore the Odysseum, a science and entertainment center.
• Evening: End your day with a visit to the Cologne Carnival Museum (Kölner Karnevalsmuseum) to learn about Cologne’s famous carnival celebrations.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute sights before departing from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN).

Things to Know

• Cologne is a walkable city, but public transportation is also convenient and efficient. Consider purchasing a Cologne Welcome Card for free public transportation and discounts at attractions.
• Try some traditional Cologne dishes like Himmel un Ääd (heaven and earth), Mettbrötchen (raw minced pork on bread), or Halve Hahn (a type of cheese).
• Don’t forget to try some Kölsch, the local beer specialty.

Transportation

• Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is located about 15 km southeast of Cologne’s city center.
• The S-Bahn train (S13) connects the airport to Hauptbahnhof, the main railway station in Cologne.
• Public transportation options include buses, trams, and trains.

Tips

• Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like the Cologne Cathedral.
• Try to avoid visiting during peak hours or season if possible.
• Don’t be afraid to ask locals for directions or recommendations – many speak English fluently.