Your Perfect Cologne Adventure with GoTravelDaily

With a world-famous cathedral, museums, murals, and a unique local beer scene, Cologne is the perfect European city break. There’s so much to enjoy, from exceptional fine dining to late-night clubbing, making Cologne a great alternative to other more touristed German cities. Here’s how to spend a perfect few days in Cologne.

Day One in Cologne

Morning

Any trip to Cologne (Köln in German) ought to begin by exploring Germany’s most visited landmark – the magnificent Kölner Dom. A Gothic architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site, the cathedral dominates the skyline and serves as the historical and spiritual heart of the city.

Access to the cathedral is free. Inside, you’ll discover treasures like the Shrine of the Three Kings and an impressive collection of medieval stained-glass windows, alongside a modern abstract design by contemporary artist Gerhard Richter. For those with a head for heights, climbing the 533 steps up the Dom’s south spire offers panoramic views over the city and the Rhine. Additionally, don’t miss Cologne’s 12 Romanesque churches, including the Church of St Ursula, the Church of St Gereon, and the Church of Gross St Martin.

Behind the cathedral, the impressive Hohenzollern Bridge spans the Rhine and has become a pilgrimage for lovers who affix love locks to its iron railings. Walk across to reach the Kölner Triangle – one of Cologne’s tallest buildings with an observation deck that provides dramatic views of the cathedral and the city. If heights are daunting, consider one of the many riverboat cruises that offer sightseeing trips along the Rhine.

Afternoon

Cologne is renowned for its Brauhaus culture. These traditional beer halls or breweries serve delicious food, and the Old Town is home to some of the best. Savor local delicacies such as Halve Hahn (thick slices of Gouda cheese with raw onion, butter, and bread), Mettbrötche (raw minced pork with onions and bread), and Himmel un Ääd (fried black pudding with chunky apple puree and mashed potato), all paired with a glass (or two) of Kölsch beer. This specialty cold ale is exclusive to Cologne and is traditionally served in 0.2l glasses. For an authentic experience, sample local favorites at beer halls like Peters Brauhaus or Früh am Dom.

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleyways of Cologne’s picturesque Old Town or sign up for one of the many Kölsch tours to delve deeper into the history and culture of this local beer.

Evening

Experience the lively atmosphere of the Belgian Quarter, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Cologne. Indulge in delectable Belgian cuisine or dance the night away at popular clubs. Schaafenstraße is the epicenter of queer culture in Cologne, boasting a vibrant collection of LGBTQIA+ bars and clubs. Prepare for a memorable night as you explore places like Die Mumu and see where the evening leads.

Day Two in Cologne

Morning

Start your day with an aromatic coffee at local favorites like Espresso Perfetto, or head to stylish café-bars such as Waidmeister, Café Rico, or Funk Haus near the main train station for a more leisurely breakfast.

Since you’re on holiday, why not relax like the locals do at one of Cologne’s spa and wellness centers? Claudius Therme is a top choice, featuring thermal pools, outdoor saunas, massages, beauty treatments, and an outdoor terrace. Influenced by Scandinavian-style bathing, German bathhouse culture offers a unique and liberating experience.

Afternoon

Fully refreshed, take a stroll back through one of Cologne’s many parks, such as the Rheinpark, which offers breathtaking views of the Rhine, or visit the open-air Sculpture Park showcasing a variety of sculptures by renowned artists.

Continue pampering yourself with a visit to the Schokoladenmuseum, where you can learn about the 5,000-year-old history of chocolate, craft your own bespoke chocolate bar, and indulge in samples from the magnificent chocolate fountain.

Evening

Cologne’s culinary scene extends far beyond Brauhaus fare. Treat yourself to an evening at one of the city’s well-regarded restaurants. For innovative fine dining, consider Amabile or Ox und Klee. Alternatively, delight in sumptuous Italian dishes at Alfredo or Da Damiano. Don’t forget to visit Café Feynsinn, a pioneer of Cologne’s slow-food movement. Reservations are recommended to ensure a delightful dining experience!

If you prefer traditional German dishes, make your way to family-owned Bei Oma Kleinmann for a hearty meal, or unwind with locals at Brauhaus Pütz in the Belgian Quarter, where you can relish top-quality schnitzel.

Day Three

Morning

Begin your morning by treating yourself to pastries from the well-established Bäckerei Zimmerman, a treasure trove of exquisite baked goods, and set out to explore Cologne’s wealth of museums.

Museum Ludwig boasts one of Europe’s largest Picasso collections, while art enthusiasts should visit the Wallraf-Richartz Museum for classical works. Notable historical sites are plentiful, including the Römisch-Germanisches Museum, with its Roman foundations, and the Kolumba building, which spectacularly showcases the ruins of the late-Gothic Church of St Kolumba.

If you’re seeking a fresh-air retreat, take a walk to the trendy Ehrenfeld district, known for its remarkable street-art murals.

Afternoon

Finally, return to your favorite Brauhaus for one last Kölsch and Halve Hahn to soak up the joyful, relaxed atmosphere of this stunning Gothic city.