Cologne Germany 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the adjacent Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum)
  • Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, discovering historic buildings and quaint shops

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional German cuisine at Götterspeise, known for its delicious Kölsch beer and local dishes
  • Take a stroll along the Rhine River promenade, offering beautiful views of the city

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the NS-Dokumentationszentrum (National Socialist Documentation Center), a museum exploring Cologne’s history during WWII
  • Stop by the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, featuring an impressive collection of European art

Afternoon

  • Explore the trendy Ehrenfeld neighborhood, known for its street art, independent shops, and cafes
  • Visit the Museum Ludwig, showcasing modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso and Warhol

Evening

  • Dine at Brauhaus Sion, a brewery restaurant serving local specialties and craft beers
  • Catch a performance or concert at the Kölner Philharmonie (Cologne Philharmonic)

Day 3: Day Trip to Bonn

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Bonn, a charming university town located about 30 minutes south of Cologne by train
  • Visit the Bonn Minster, a beautiful church with stunning views of the city

Afternoon

  • Explore the Bundesviertel (Federal Quarter), home to many government buildings and institutions
  • Stop by the Beethoven-Haus Bonn, a museum dedicated to the life and works of Ludwig van Beethoven

Evening

  • Return to Cologne and enjoy dinner at Früh am Dom, a cozy restaurant serving traditional German cuisine
  • Relax with a drink at Bar Oveja, known for its extensive selection of spirits and cocktails

Day 4: Parks and Recreation

Morning

  • Visit the Flora Botanical Garden, featuring over 10,000 plant species and beautiful greenhouses
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Stadtgarten (City Garden), a peaceful oasis in the heart of Cologne

Afternoon

  • Rent a bike and explore the Rheinauhafen, a scenic waterfront area with parks and restaurants
  • Visit the Sport- und Olympia Museum, showcasing the history of sports and the Olympic Games

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Götterspeise (again, because it’s that good!)
  • Take in the city views from the Kölnturm (Cologne Tower), offering panoramic views from its observation deck

Day 5: Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Visit the bustling Cologne Market Hall, offering a wide range of food, drinks, and local products
  • Explore the Schildergasse, one of Cologne’s main shopping streets with international brands and boutiques

Afternoon

  • Browse the stalls at the Ehrenfeld Market, featuring handmade crafts, vintage items, and street food
  • Relax with a coffee or snack at Café Reichard, a charming spot with a cozy atmosphere

Evening

  • Farewell dinner at Brauhaus Sion (because you can’t leave Cologne without trying their beer again!)
  • Departure from Cologne Bonn Airport or the main train station

Things to Know

  • Cologne is a bike-friendly city; consider renting a bike for easy transportation
  • The KölnCard offers free admission to many museums and attractions, as well as public transportation
  • Don’t forget to try some Kölsch, the local beer style that’s only brewed in Cologne!

Transportation

  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is about 15 km from the city center; take a taxi or bus (S-Bahn S13)
  • The main train station, Köln Hauptbahnhof, is centrally located and offers easy access to public transportation
  • Use the KVB (Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe) public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains

Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather; pack layers and waterproof gear
  • Learn some basic German phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions; locals are generally friendly and willing to assist