Cologne, Germany-2-day-itinerary

2-Day Cologne Itinerary: Exploring History, Culture & Beer

Where to Stay: Consider these options based on your budget:

  • Budget: Hostel Köln, a&o Köln Hauptbahnhof
  • Mid-Range: Hotel am Dom, Excelsior Hotel Ernst
  • Luxury: Hyatt Regency Cologne, The Qvest

Things to Know:

  • Language: German, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Transportation: Cologne has a great public transport system with trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway). Purchase a 24-hour ticket for unlimited travel within the city.

Day 1: History & Architecture

  • Morning:

    • Start your day at the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb to the top of the south tower for breathtaking views. Allow about 2 hours for exploration.
    • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Kölsch beer and hearty German fare at Früh am Dom, a historic brewery with a beautiful terrace overlooking the cathedral.

  • Afternoon:

    • Immerse yourself in Roman history at the Römisch-Germanisches Museum which houses artifacts from Cologne’s Roman past. (Allow 1.5 hours).
    • Stroll along the Rhine River and cross the Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with love locks.

  • Evening:

    • Experience Cologne’s lively nightlife in the Belgian Quarter, known for its bars, restaurants, and trendy shops.
    • Dinner: Indulge in a delicious meal at Peters Brauhaus, another popular brewery serving authentic Kölsch cuisine.

Day 2: Art & Culture

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Museum Ludwig, showcasing modern and contemporary art with works by Picasso, Warhol, and others. (Allow 2 hours).

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore the charming Old Town (Altstadt), with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and hidden courtyards.
    • Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a traditional bakery like Beckers Bäckerei, known for their fresh pretzels and pastries.

  • Evening:

    • Take a scenic Rhine River cruise for stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding vineyards.
    • Dinner: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Ox & Klee, renowned for its innovative cuisine and elegant ambiance.

Transportation Tips:

  • Purchase a “KölnCard” for discounted access to museums, attractions, and public transport.

  • Download the KVB app for real-time information on trams, buses, and the U-Bahn.

  • Consider renting a bike to explore the city at your own pace.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Chocolate Museum (Chocoholics delight!)
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Eau de Cologne 4711 House: Learn about the history of this famous perfume

Enjoy your time in beautiful Cologne!