Trip to Cologne, Germany

Day 1: Arrival and Walk around the City Center

On your first day in Cologne, take a walk around the city center to soak in the cultural and historical sights. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Rhine River, the impressive Gothic architecture of Cologne Cathedral, and the stunning Romanesque architecture and mosaics of the Church of St. Martin. Other highlights include the Museum Ludwig, Praetorium, which was once an ancient palace, and the city’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants, where you can indulge in some shopping and local cuisine.

Day 2: Visit the Historical Rheinau Peninsula

On your second day in Cologne, take a trip to the Rheinau Peninsula, which is home to the famous Cologne Zoo. Here you can see a wide variety of animals, including elephants, monkeys, and tigers. Nearby is the Flora Botanical Garden, which is one of the oldest gardens in Germany, filled with tropical plants, flowers, and fountains. You can also take a stroll around the Cologne cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the city from the air.

Day 3: Discover the Chocolate Museum and the Old Town

On your third day in Cologne, get a glimpse into the city’s delicious chocolate-making history by visiting the Chocolate Museum. Here you can learn all about chocolate from its origins to modern-day production methods, then sample some delicious local chocolate creations. Afterwards, take a stroll around the charming Old Town (Altstadt), where you can experience some of Cologne’s oldest and most beautiful buildings, such as the historical Town Hall and colorful houses. The area is also dotted with plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants, so you can treat yourself to some local cuisine and souvenirs.

Day 4: Explore the Art Museum and Parks

On your fourth day in Cologne, visit the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, where you can see an impressive collection of paintings from different periods and artists. After that, head over to the Stadtgarten Park, which is famous for its beautiful flower gardens, lakes, and walking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike or boat, or simply relax and have a picnic.

Day 5: Visit Theodor Heuss Park and the Chocolate Museum

On your fifth day in Cologne, visit the Theodor Heuss Park, which is one of the largest city parks in Europe. Within the park, there is a cozy beer garden, an open-air theater, and plenty of sports facilities. You can have a picnic on the banks of the Rhine, feed the ducks or simply stroll through the green spaces. Later, head back to the Chocolate Museum for a hands-on chocolate-making workshop, where you can create some of your own sweet treats under the guidance of a master chocolatier.

Day 6: Explore the Rhine River Tour

On your sixth day in Cologne, take a romantic Rhine River tour and enjoy a different perspective of the city. Take in the breathtaking views of the cityscape and picturesque green landscapes while cruising along the tranquil waters, and stop off at some of the small river towns along the way. In the evening, enjoy some local nightlife with a visit to a trendy karaoke bar or techno club.

Day 7: Day Trip to Düsseldorf

On your last day in Cologne, take a day trip to the nearby city of Düsseldorf, which is known for its fashion, art, and nightlife. Take a stroll down the elegant shopping avenue, Königsallee, where you can explore designer shops, boutiques, and department stores. After that, head to the modern art museums, such as K21 or Kunstpalast, which showcase works from local and international artists. End the day with a visit to the famous Altstadt area, known as ‘the longest bar in the world’, hosting over 260 bars, clubs and discos, with some of the best beer and nightlife in the region.