Cologne, Germany-3-day-itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Cologne, Germany

Day 1: Exploring the City Centre

Morning

  • Start your day at Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Germany’s most famous landmarks. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
  • From there, walk to Roncalli Square, a vibrant area surrounded by cafes, shops, and street performers.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum) to discover Cologne’s Roman heritage and see artifacts like mosaics and sculptures.
  • Take a stroll along the Rhine River (Rhein) and enjoy the city views from the riverbank.

Evening

  • Head to Brauhaus Sion, a traditional brewery serving local Kölsch beer and delicious German cuisine. Try their famous “Himmel un Ääd” dish!
  • Stay at Hotel Im Wasserturm, a stylish boutique hotel located in a historic water tower, offering comfortable rooms and a great breakfast buffet.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Entertainment

Morning

  • Visit the Wallraf-Richartz Museum (Wallraf-Richartz-Museum), which features an impressive collection of European art from the 13th to the 20th century.
  • Stop by the Ludwig Museum, showcasing modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein.

Afternoon

  • Explore the trendy Ehrenfeld neighbourhood, known for its street art, indie shops, and multicultural atmosphere. Grab lunch at one of the many international eateries.
  • Visit the Cologne Philharmonic (Kölner Philharmonie), a stunning concert hall hosting various performances throughout the year.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Götterspeise, a cosy restaurant serving seasonal, organic dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Be sure to book in advance!
  • Catch a show or concert at the Schauspiel Köln theatre, featuring a diverse programme of plays, dance performances, and music events.

Day 3: Day Trip and Local Delights

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Bonn, the former capital city of West Germany, located about 30 minutes south of Cologne. Visit the Beethoven-Haus, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Ludwig van Beethoven.
  • Explore Bonn’s charming old town, including the Marktplatz and Bonn Minster.

Afternoon

  • Return to Cologne and visit the Fragrance Museum (Duftmuseum), showcasing a collection of perfume bottles and fragrances from around the world.
  • Indulge in some local chocolate at Peters Brauhaus, a popular spot for Kölsch beer and delicious desserts.

Evening

  • End your trip with a scenic Rhine River Cruise, offering stunning views of Cologne’s skyline and waterfront areas.
  • Stay overnight at Hotel am Augustiner Hof, a comfortable hotel in the heart of the city, with easy access to public transportation.

Things to Know

  • Cologne is easily accessible by air (Cologne Bonn Airport), train (Köln Hauptbahnhof), or bus (Köln Süd).
  • The city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. You can purchase a KölnCard for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.
  • Be prepared for variable weather; Cologne can be rainy, even in summer.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June to August) for smaller crowds and lower prices.

Tips

  • Learn some basic German phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
  • Be respectful of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Don’t forget to try some local Kölsch beer and traditional dishes like Himmel un Ääd or Metzgerei.
  • Explore Cologne’s many markets, like the Cologne Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt) or Ehrenfeld Market.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, entertainment, and local delights, giving you a comprehensive taste of what Cologne has to offer. Prost!