Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Cologne?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Cologne?
Many visitors spend one to three days in Cologne during their visit. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because there's so much to see and do. This city offers a number of attractions to explore, including the museums and landmarks, the big city activities, the nightlife, and the many shops.
Cologne is a city that combines both modern and historic features in a very compatible and fun style. From the impressive Cologne Cathedral to the many museums and outdoor spaces along the river, Cologne offers something for everyone. The city is also well connected to the rest of Germany and Europe with a very popular train station right in the heart of town.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Cologne? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Cologne?
Three days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to Cologne, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. Enjoy the chance to browse the museums, enjoy the city's energy, take advantage of the local nightlife, and browse the shops on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel or use Cologne as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding area.
How to spend 3 days in Cologne
Don't miss the Cologne Cathedral during your trip to Cologne, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.
Cologne is a very walkable city. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.
Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Cologne a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Aachen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour ($7)
- The Chocolate Museum Cologne Entrance Ticket ($17)
- Cologne Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour ($7)
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Köln Südstadt kulinarisch – Die Food Tour ($48)
- Colonia Tour: Explore Cologne by Segway with brewery beer tasting ($87)
- Cologne Wine Tasting and Tour with an Expert ($214)
Public transit in Cologne is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.
With its exciting energy, Cologne offers the chance to immerse yourself in its dynamic neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and fun activities. Set aside a full day to explore the city's historical sites and must-see landmarks.. The city is large enough to offer a diversity of neighborhoods that are fun to explore.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Cologne City Tour Experience cathedral city on the Rhine ($32)
- Rhine River Evening Panorama Cruise in Cologne ($27)
- Cologne Rhine River 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise ($19)
Cologne is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. You'll be greeted by the intricately designed Cologne Cathedral as you leave the train station. Old Town spreads out from this square and although many areas have been rebuilt, there city still offers a fascinating beauty.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Cologne Highlights 2h privat walking tour with own Tour Guide. ($185)
- Guided Brewhouse Walking Tour in Cologne ($22)
- Cologne Self Guided Walking Tour Discovering the Horrors of WWII ($8)
Is 4 days enough time in Cologne?
Four days is more than enough time to see everything that Cologne has to offer. Many visitors prefer to spend one to three days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the museums and landmarks, the big city activities, the nightlife, and the many shops at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.
How to spend 4 days in Cologne
With 4 days in Cologne, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.
Shopping in Cologne is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Is 5 days enough time in Cologne?
Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Cologne. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. You could also use Cologne as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.
How to spend 5 days in Cologne
If you have more than 5 days in Cologne, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the city has to offer.
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Cologne Highlights 2h privat walking tour with own Tour Guide. ($185)
- Guided tour of the old town with a visit to the brewery in Cologne ($19)
- Guided Brewhouse Walking Tour in Cologne ($22)
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
More Info
If you're looking for more information about Cologne, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.
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