If you’re planning a trip to Cologne, Germany, you’re in for a treat! This beautiful city is full of history, culture, and amazing sights. In this article, we’ll give you all the tips and advice you need to make the most of your 3-day visit.
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
- Start your day with a visit to the Cologne Cathedral, one of the most important landmarks in the city. This Gothic masterpiece took over 600 years to build and is absolutely breathtaking.
- Next, take a stroll through the charming Old Town, which is full of colorful buildings, cozy cafes, and unique shops. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Rathaus, the historic city hall.
- For lunch, head to Brauhaus Früh am Dom, a traditional brewery that serves delicious local cuisine.
- In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat tour on the Rhine River, which offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
- End your day with a visit to the Chocolate Museum, where you can learn all about the history of chocolate and even try some delicious samples!
Day 2: Museums and Art Galleries
- Start your day with a visit to the Ludwig Museum, which is home to an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein.
- Next, head to the Römisch-Germanisches Museum, which is dedicated to the history of the Roman Empire in Germany. Don’t miss the chance to see the impressive Roman mosaic floor.
- For lunch, try Fischers Brauhaus, a local brewery and restaurant that serves traditional German food and beer.
- In the afternoon, explore the Museum Ludwig, which is known for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. You can also visit the nearby Cologne Philharmonic Hall, which is one of the most beautiful concert halls in Europe.
- End your day with a relaxing walk through the beautiful Rheinpark, which offers stunning views of the Rhine River and the city skyline.
Day 3: Discovering the Surroundings
- Start your day with a visit to the Cologne Zoo, which is home to over 10,000 animals from all over the world. Don’t miss the chance to see the adorable giant pandas!
- Next, head to the nearby Schloss Drachenburg, a stunning castle that offers panoramic views of the Rhine Valley. You can take a guided tour of the castle and its beautiful gardens.
- For lunch, try Im Ferkulum, a local restaurant that serves delicious German cuisine and offers stunning views of the city.
- In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Bonn, which is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Beethoven House, where the famous composer was born.
- End your day with a relaxing stroll through the Königsallee, a beautiful shopping street that is famous for its luxury boutiques and designer stores.
Where to Stay in Cologne
There are many great options for accommodation in Cologne, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:
- Hyatt Regency Cologne: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Rhine River and the Cologne Cathedral, as well as a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Hotel Lyskirchen: This modern hotel is located in the heart of the Old Town and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a sauna.
- Cologne Marriott Hotel: This centrally located hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Cologne Downtown Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory and private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and lounge.
For more options, check out the official website of Cologne Tourism.
Where to Eat in Cologne
Cologne is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes specialties like sausages, beer, and sweet treats like chocolate and marzipan. Here are a few recommendations for places to eat:
- Brauhaus Früh am Dom: This traditional brewery and restaurant is located near the Cologne Cathedral and serves delicious local cuisine and beer.
- Fischers Brauhaus: This local brewery and restaurant is known for its delicious German food and beer, and is located near the Museum Ludwig.
- Im Ferkulum: This local restaurant offers stunning views of the city and serves delicious German cuisine.
- Reissdorf am Hahnentor: This cozy pub is known for its delicious Reissdorf Kölsch beer and traditional German dishes.
- Chocolat Grand Café: This cozy café is located near the Chocolate Museum and offers delicious chocolate treats and coffee.
Free Tours in Cologne
If you’re on a budget or just want to learn more about the city, there are several free tours available in Cologne. Here are a few options:
- Cologne Free Walking Tour: This 2.5-hour tour covers the main sights of the Old Town, including the Cologne Cathedral, the Rathaus, and the historic Jewish Quarter.
- Free Tour Cologne: This 2.5-hour tour covers the main sights of the city, including the Cologne Cathedral, the Museum Ludwig, and the Rhine River.
- Alternative Cologne Tour: This 2-hour tour covers the alternative side of Cologne, including street art, independent shops, and local bars.
- Green Capital Tour: This 2.5-hour tour covers the sustainable side of Cologne, including green spaces, organic markets, and eco-friendly buildings.
For more information and to book a free tour, visit the Free Tour website.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Cologne? The best time to visit Cologne is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
- How do I get around Cologne? Cologne has a great public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. You can also rent a bike or walk to explore the city.
- What are some other attractions near Cologne? Some nearby attractions include the cities of Bonn and Düsseldorf, as well as the beautiful Rhine Valley.
- Is English widely spoken in Cologne? Yes, English is widely spoken in Cologne, especially in tourist areas.
- What is the currency in Cologne? The currency in Cologne, and in Germany as a whole, is the Euro (EUR).
Conclusion
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a fun and relaxing vacation, Cologne has something for everyone. From the stunning Cologne Cathedral to the delicious local cuisine, there are plenty of reasons to visit this beautiful city. We hope this itinerary and travel tips have helped you plan your 3-day trip to Cologne, Germany. Have a great time!
