Cologne 6 Day Itinerary

Title: 6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Cologne

Day 1: Arrival & City Center Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport (CNX). Check-in at your hotel, we recommend Hotel Im Wasserturm or Pullman Cologne.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), explore the Old Town (Altstadt) and stroll along the Rhine Waterfront (Rheinauhafen).
  • Evening: Savor local specialties at Zum Schlüssel, a traditional tavern with a rich history.

Day 2: Museums & More

  • Morning: Visit the Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum), learn about the city’s chocolate-making tradition.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Wallraf Richartz Museum and the Ludwig Museum - Museum of Modern Art.
  • Evening: Dine at Fischmarkt, a lively fish market with various food stalls.

Day 3: Green Spaces & History

  • Morning: Visit the German Sports and Olympic Museum in the green oasis of Rheinpark Duisburg Nord.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historical area of Ehrenfeld, known for its vibrant street art, cafes, and bars.
  • Evening: Dine at Fleischerei im Ehrenfeld, offering a contemporary take on traditional German cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Druscheid & Bonn

  • Morning: Take a day trip to nearby Druscheid, known for its beautiful lakes and hiking trails.
  • Afternoon: Head to Bonn, the former capital of West Germany, visit the Bonn Museum Mile, and the Beethoven House.
  • Evening: Return to Cologne and rest.

Day 5: Rhine Cruise & Nightlife

  • Morning/Afternoon: Take a Rhine cruise (e.g., Flussschifffahrt Koln) to enjoy the beautiful river scenery.
  • Evening: Explore Cologne’s vibrant nightlife in the districts of Belgian Quarter (Belgienviertel) and Zollstock.
  • Dinner: Dine at Tante Shews, a popular restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.

Day 6: Farewell & Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the Souvenir Mile (Schokoladenstraße), where you can find traditional Kolsch beer and local chocolate.
  • Afternoon: If time permits, explore more of the city or revisit your favorite spots.
  • Departure: Depart from Cologne Bonn Airport with cherished memories of your trip.

Things to Know:

  1. Kolsch beer is a local specialty; it’s brewed according to strict guidelines and served in a small, cylindrical glass called a Stange.
  2. The city center is pedestrianized, making it easy to explore on foot.
  3. Public transportation is well-organized, with trams (Straßenbahn) and buses (Bus) operated by KVB.
  4. English is widely spoken in Cologne, but learning a few German phrases can enhance your experience.
  5. The city’s official app, KoelnApp, offers information on events, attractions, and transportation.

Tips:

  1. Try to visit the Cathedral at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.
  2. Don’t miss out on the street food scene, especially the currywurst and Döner kebabs.
  3. Plan your trip during one of Cologne’s many festivals, such as Karneval or Lichterfest.