7 day itinerary for Cologne

Itinerary

Cologne is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Here's an ideal itinerary for 7 days in Cologne:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive in Cologne and check into your hotel
• Take a stroll around the city center and explore the famous Cologne Cathedral
• Visit the Museum Ludwig, which houses an impressive collection of modern art
• Enjoy a traditional German dinner at one of the many restaurants in the city center

Day 2: Historic Cologne

• Start your day with a visit to the Roman-Germanic Museum, which showcases the city's Roman history
• Take a guided tour of the historic Old Town, including the Alter Markt and the Rathaus (City Hall)
• Visit the Fragrance Museum, which explores the history of perfume-making in Cologne
• End your day with a relaxing boat tour on the Rhine River

Day 3: Parks and Gardens

• Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Botanical Garden Flora
• Take a picnic lunch to the Rheinpark, which offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline
• Visit the Japanese Garden, which is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
• End your day with a visit to the Claudius Therme, a luxurious spa with thermal baths and saunas

Day 4: Chocolate and Beer

• Start your day with a visit to the Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate-making and sample some delicious treats
• Take a brewery tour at the Früh Kölsch Brewery, which produces the city's famous beer
• Enjoy a traditional German lunch at a local brewery or beer garden
• Spend the afternoon exploring the trendy Ehrenfeld neighborhood, which is known for its street art and independent shops

Day 5: Day Trip to Bonn

• Take a day trip to the nearby city of Bonn, which was the capital of West Germany from 1949 to 1990
• Visit the Beethoven-Haus, where the famous composer was born and lived for many years
• Explore the historic Old Town, including the Marktplatz and the Münster Basilica
• End your day with a visit to the Rheinaue Park, which offers beautiful views of the Rhine River

Day 6: Shopping and Nightlife

• Spend the morning shopping at the Hohe Straße and Schildergasse, which are two of the city's most popular shopping streets
• Visit the Museum of Applied Arts, which showcases the history of design and craftsmanship
• Enjoy dinner at one of the city's many restaurants, and then head out for a night on the town at one of the city's many bars and clubs

Day 7: Farewell Cologne

• Spend your last day in Cologne visiting any sights you may have missed, or simply relaxing and enjoying the city
• Take a final stroll around the city center and say goodbye to the beautiful Cologne Cathedral
• Depart Cologne with fond memories of your time in this wonderful city!