Michelle Cacija

Discover the best of Cologne in just three days! Walk across the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its love locks and stunning views of the Rhine. Marvel at the towering Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural masterpiece. Glide over the Rhine in the Cologne Cable Car, offering breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Snap a photo with the beloved Sendung mit der Maus statue, a favorite for fans of all ages. If you visit during Carnival season, don’t miss the colorful parades and lively parties that take over the city. Cologne offers a mix of history, culture, and fun that will make your trip unforgettable! Are you ready to dive in? Then servus and welcome to a three-day Cologne itinerary!

As always, I want to remind you, that this blog isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all of my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.

Index

1. The Basics about Cologne
2. Things you need to be aware of
3. Medical insurance
4. Itinerary
5. Summary of activities
6. Where to eat
7. Other Germany Blogs

The Basics about Cologne

When to visit

Cologne is a wonderful destination year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and September when temperatures average 15–25°C (59–77°F). The warm weather makes it ideal for strolling along the Rhine or exploring the city’s historic sites. If you prefer vibrant festivities, visit in February for Cologne’s famous Carnival, when the city comes alive with parades and celebrations, even if the temperatures hover around 0–10°C (32–50°F).

Time period

A three to four day trip is perfect for experiencing the best of Cologne. This gives you enough time to explore iconic landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral, enjoy a boat ride on the Rhine, and sample local cuisine without feeling rushed.

Getting There

Cologne is well-connected and easy to reach. Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) offers a wide range of international and domestic flights and is just a 15-minute train ride from the city center. Alternatively, high-speed trains such as the ICE connect Cologne to major cities across Germany and neighboring countries like France, the Netherlands, Belgium, and more, making it a great stop on a European trip.

Where to stay

The Old Town (Altstadt) is perfect for first-time visitors and travelers in general. It’s close to famous landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral and has many restaurants to choose from. You’ll find a variety of places to stay in the city, with options for every budget — luxury, mid-range, and budget.

Getting around

Cologne’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use. Trams, buses, and trains connect all major areas. The KVB website or app is a convenient tool for navigating routes. Alternatively, the city is very walkable, and renting a bike is another great way to explore.

What to pack

If visiting in summer, pack light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a jumper or a light jacket for cooler evenings. In Winter you should bring a warm jacket or coat, gloves, beanie, and warm shoes, as temperatures range from -2 to 8°C (28–46°F). An umbrella or rain jacket is useful year-round since Cologne is known for occasional rain.

Additionally, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, after sun, etc. You never know what you might need it for, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than in a country where you don’t know the ingredients and languages. If you’re coming from outside Europe, don’t forget to bring a Type C power adapter.

Cost of Traveling

As for the expenses, the amount you’re going to spend depends on several factors, such as your choice of accommodation, your travel style, and the activities you’ll be doing. In general, Cologne is relatively affordable compared to other major European cities.

Things you need to be aware of

Sundays. On Sundays, shops and supermarkets are closed, while restaurants and cafes usually remain open. Don’t worry if you forgot to buy something or you’re starving for a snack; the supermarkets at the train stations will be open. Also, if you think that there is nothing to do on a Sunday you are wrong; maybe it’s time to explore the museums and the nature in and around Cologne!

Water in Germany. You can safely drink tap water in Germany as it’s clean and meets the World Health Organization standards.

Toilet situation. Unfortunately, public restrooms typically cost around 50 Cent to a euro in Germany (and many other European countries). So, make sure to carry a few coins with you and always use the restroom before leaving your accommodation, a restaurant, or a café.

Tipping. In Germany, tipping is very common. It’s customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services.

Currency. The currency in Germany is the Euro. While a few years ago, Cologne was still very cash-oriented, they now accept cards almost everywhere. It’s still advisable, though, to bring some cash with you.

Medical insurance

I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.

SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Itinerary

Day 1

After a short one hour drive from Aachen, my partner and a friend of ours arrived in Cologne. My partner and I had planned to stay in Cologne for three days before heading to Paris, while our friend, who lives in Aachen, would join us for the first two days of our trip. Once we had dropped off our luggage at the hotel, it didn’t take long for the three of us to dive straight into the heart of Cologne to explore.

The city center greeted us with its vibrant energy. Strolling through the lively streets, we encountered everything from popular clothing stores to charming little cafés and classic costume shops bursting with personality. Their windows were a feast for the eyes — filled with feathers, masks, glittering costumes, and quirky accessories — perfectly capturing Cologne’s love for creativity and its deep connection to the famous Carnival season.

Of course, we couldn’t resist stepping into one of these costume shops, and let me tell you, we had the time of our lives! My partner, who comes from Australia and isn’t familiar with Fasching or Carnival traditions, was absolutely fascinated. Trying on outrageous hats, colorful wigs, and dazzling costumes brought so much laughter and joy. For anyone visiting Cologne, this truly offers a glimpse into the city’s festive spirit.

After strolling through Cologne’s bustling city center, we made our way toward the Rhine. Along the way, we stumbled upon the once-famous five colorful gabled houses at the Cologne Fish Market. Sadly, two of them were hidden behind construction. These charming houses, much like the iconic Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine itself, were a defining feature of the city’s landscape. Tourists and locals alike adored these picturesque houses as a favorite photo spot in the historic old town. Unfortunately, due to irreparable damage to the original wooden beams, two of the houses were demolished in November 2023 — a heartbreaking loss for the city.

Continuing on, we reached the Rhine and enjoyed a relaxed walk along the riverside. Eventually, we crossed the famous Hohenzollern Bridge, a must-see landmark in Cologne. Not only does the bridge offer breathtaking views of the river and city skyline, but it’s also home to an incredible collection of love locks. Couples, families, and friends from all over the world have attached padlocks to the bridge as a symbol of their eternal bond. The tradition of locking a padlock onto a bridge and throwing the key into the river below is a romantic gesture of everlasting connection — a trend that’s become popular not just in Germany, but around the world.

Once we reached the other side of the bridge, we found the perfect spot along the promenade to sit back and relax. The lively atmosphere, with people strolling, cyclists passing by, and the calming sight of the Rhine flowing endlessly, made it a beautiful place to pause and soak in the charm of the city.

We crossed the bridge again, returning to the other side of the Rhine to visit the Cologne Cathedral which you simply can’t miss. If you arrive at Cologne’s Central Station, you’ll find yourself practically standing right next to it. Its towering spires are visible from many points around the city center though, making it an unmistakable landmark. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Germany’s top tourist attractions, the Cathedral deserves your time and attention. Be sure to take it all in — this is the second tallest church in Germany and an absolute masterpiece of gothic architecture.

Visitor information: Entry to the Cologne Cathedral is free of charge, making it accessible to everyone. You can visit this iconic landmark daily between 9:30 AM and 6:00 PM. For those looking to enhance their experience, consider climbing the Cathedral’s tower for stunning views or exploring the fascinating Cathedral Treasury. To learn more about visiting options and details, click here to visit the official website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

And while you’re in the area, don’t forget to stop by one of Cologne’s unique photo spots: the orange German mouse! For my German-speaking readers, you’ll know her as Die Sendung mit der Maus. This iconic character has been sparking curiosity and joy in children (and adults!) for decades with her clever and endearing personality. You’ll find her statue near the WDR building, just a short walk from the Cathedral and Central Station. Feeling hungry, we grabbed a late lunch, a fresh poke bowl, and headed to a nearby park to enjoy it under the warm sun. It was the perfect setting to chat, relax, and take in the lively vibe of the city.

Later, we continued wandering through Cologne’s streets and came across the Grüne Markt (Green Market) at Apostelnkloster. This charming market runs every Tuesday and Friday and is a nice and lively place to browse. While it’s not huge, it offers everything you could need, including some of the loveliest flowers in town. The rest of the day was spent wandering through Cologne’s streets, popping into various shops.

Day 2

Our second day in Cologne started with a breathtaking view of the city from the KölnTriangle. This modern observation deck, located just across the Rhine from the Cologne Cathedral, offers a 360-degree panoramic view that’s absolutely worth the climb (or elevator ride). From the top, we soaked in the sights of the iconic Cathedral, the Rhine, and the bustling streets below. It was the perfect way to get a new perspective on this vibrant city and snap some incredible photos.

After taking in the views, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the Rhine. The fresh breeze, the sound of the water, and the relaxed atmosphere made for a peaceful morning. It’s hard not to feel connected to the rhythm of the city when walking by the river, where locals and visitors alike take their time to enjoy the scenery.

For lunch, we headed back into the city center over the bridge for some Italian food and the restaurant we chose didn’t disappoint. The thin, crispy crust and fresh toppings on the pizza hit the spot, giving us the energy we needed for the rest of the day.

In the afternoon, we decided to do another fun activity — neon mini golf! This was no ordinary mini golf; the entire course glowed under blacklight, with vibrant, otherworldly colors and imaginative designs. We laughed our way through the course, cheering for good shots and groaning at missed ones. I’ll admit, I’m not the best at mini golf in general, but in the dark, it’s even harder — believe me! It was such a fun and unique way to spend the afternoon, and we all agreed it was one of the highlights of the day. As the day came to an end, we felt like we’d struck the perfect balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and fun.

Visitor information: Tickets are priced at €14 for adults and €13 for children aged 6 to 12, with no play allowed for children under 6. For more details, click here ^{(unpaid ad)}.

Day 3

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Buur ^{(unpaid ad)}, a trendy spot that has quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike. Despite its fame, this café is absolutely worth a visit. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the beautifully presented dishes were as delicious as they were Instagram-worthy. The menu offered everything from acai bowls to creamy avocado toast to satisfy any craving. Next, we headed to the Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, passing by the charming Fish Fountain at Kaiser-Wilhelm-Ring along the way.

As we entered the Botanical Gardens, we were greeted by an explosion of color — countless flowers in full bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. The garden was truly beautiful, with bright flowers arranged in carefully designed patterns. The greenhouse at the Botanical Gardens houses everything from towering palms to delicate orchids, thriving in the warm, humid environment. It was a perfect spot to linger, soaking in the rich diversity of nature and marvelling at the incredible array of colors and shapes of the plants.

Just a short walk from the garden, we stumbled upon the Cologne Cable Car (Kölner Seilbahn), which glides over the Rhine, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city. Without hesitation, we joined the queue. Moments later, we were suspended high above the water, slowly drifting across the river. The panoramic views were very nice — on one side, the sprawling cityscape with the iconic Cologne Cathedral piercing the skyline; on the other, the lush green expanse of the Rheinpark.

Visitor information: A one-way ticket costs €5.00 for adults and €3.00 for children aged 4 to 12, while a round-trip ticket is €9.00 for adults and €4.50 for children. For more information, click here ^{(unpaid ad)}.

On the other side of the Rhine, we took a stroll through the Rheinpark, a peaceful escape from the urban buzz. The park was alive with people picnicking, walking around, and joggers weaving through shaded paths. We found ourselves a quiet spot to sit and simply take in the natural beauty surrounding us.

Eventually, we crossed back over the Rhine over the Hohenzollern Bridge, with its famous love locks sparkling in the afternoon light. Back in the city center, we couldn’t resist indulging in a classic local treat: Reibekuchen. These crispy potato pancakes, served hot and golden brown, were the perfect snack to enjoy by the river. We also enjoyed a classic Bratwurst. With the Rhine stretching out before us and the bustling city behind us, it was the ideal way to end our day and trip in general. See you soon, Cologne.

Summary of activities

• Hohenzollernbrücke
• Kölner Dom
• KölnTriangle
• Botanical Gardens
• Cable car over the rhine
• Rheinpark
• Fischmarkt
• Alter Markt
• Statue of Die Sendung mit der Maus
• MuseumLudwig
• Schokoladenmuseum Köln
• Mini Golf
• Fasching costume shop

Where to eat

• Mama Trattoria Köln – Italian cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Rievkoochebud – Traditional Reibekuchen ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Café Buur – Café/Brunch spot ^{(unpaid ad)}

Other Germany Blogs