Cologne, a hip city in Germany close to the Dutch border. Ideal for a day of shopping but even better for a weekend away. Now you may be thinking hip? Yes indeed! Cologne has much more to offer than the famous Christmas market at the end of the year, which is also great to visit! With its high student population, the city has many hip cafes, affordable restaurants and cool sights. Check out all our tips and get the most out of your weekend away to Cologne.
All about a city break to Cologne
Transport to and in Cologne
If you choose a city trip to Cologne, you have several options. You can go by plane, train or car. Our preference is the train or car since the distance is so short. If you go by train then we recommend you check out the site of NSInternational check for current prices.
Tip: If you go by car, fill up in Germany and don't forget your environmental sticker. You need this environmental sticker to drive in the city. Applying is easy and you will receive it within 3 days. Order the environment sticker here at a discount!
Tip: If you go by car, download the app Parkopedia Parking. It shows you all parking options at a glance!
If you are in Cologne there are several options to see as much of the city as possible. Opt for public transport, bicycle or explore the city on one of the scooters. We recommend renting a lime scooter for a day. A day ticket is 10,- and booking a ride is easy to arrange via the app.
Would you also like to visit museums and one of the many other attractions? Then look for a Köln Card. This also allows unlimited free travel on buses and trains in Cologne. You can choose from a card for 24 or 48 hours.
Tip: You can rent Lime scooters via the app on your phone. However, you do need a credit card for this, as it will be linked to your Lime account. After downloading the app and activating your account; you will be taken step-by-step through the instructions. Note: make sure your battery is well charged when using the scooters, so you can check out and log out after use.
Where best to stay in Cologne
Cologne is divided into several districts, each with its own charms. Many people limit themselves to a visit to Altstadt. Too bad, because Cologne has many more highlights than the cathedral and the Hohenzollernbrücke.
Altstadt: This beautiful city centre is home to Cologne Cathedral. This is the largest cathedral in Germany and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also find the famous coloured houses at the Fischmarkt and the Hohenzollernbrücke, better known as the Little Castle Bridge. Altstad is definitely not to be missed but we recommend looking further afield.
Ehrenfeld: On the outskirts of Cologne you will find Ehrenfeld. This is a trendy district with lots of street art, hip bars & coffee shops and vintage shops. It is atmospheric and therefore definitely worth a visit.
Rheinauhafen: This district is perfect for photographers and it is a popular walking area. This district is full of modern architecture and the famous Schokoladen Museum. After the bombings, this area was revived and successfully. It is a fusion of old buildings, the old harbour to the Rhine and modern architecture. From here, you can also see Cologne's beach. Perfect for cooling off on hot days.
Belgisches Viertel: This is our favourite district centred on Brüsseler Platz. It is the perfect district for travellers who want to discover more of Cologne. You will also find hip cafés and restaurants with the latest food trends here. But also concept stores, small boutiques and vintage shops.
We slept at the Steigenberger Hotel Köln just around the corner from Aachener Strasse. A fine street where you can go for a good breakfast, sumptuous lunch or a romantic dinner. A good chance you'll be as enthusiastic about the district as we are!
What to do on your city break to Cologne
During a walk in the above districts, you are guaranteed to pass by these sights.
- Cologne Cathedral: This impressive Cathedral is a must-see. The Cathedral, better known as Cologne Cathedral, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is as impressive inside as it is outside.
- Hohenzollern Birdge: Known among Dutch people as the slotjesbrug, as the name suggests, hangs full of locks. It is one of the busiest railway and pedestrian bridges in Germany.
- Fischmarket: You'll find these colourful houses in the old town on the Rhine.
- Rheinauhafen: As mentioned above, this is definitely a place to visit. The view over the Rhine is beautiful, the buildings impressive and the cafes complete it.
- Köln Triangle: This is one of the best vantage points in the city. For a few euros, you can take the lift up and look out over the historic centre. We haven't done this ourselves but have heard a lot about it. Will you let us know what you think of this?
But besides these places, there is so much more to do in Cologne! Check out the chocolate museum, go beer tasting at a brewery or discover the most beautiful spots of Cologne on a 3-hour guided bike tour.
The nicest restaurants in Cologne
- Herr Pimock: For a good cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast, after which you'll probably stick around for lunch, drinks and dinner! Herr Pimock can be found in the Belgisch Viertel district in Aachener Strasse.
- Café Bauturm: Also on Aachener Strasse, you'll find Café Bauturm. Everything they serve here is organic/ fair trade/ veg and you can have a great breakfast here.
- Papa Joe's Climbing Cabinets: In the middle of the Altermarkt is Papa Joe's Climbing Cupboards. A real beer pub with special décor inside. A great place to take a little drinking break.
- Spencer & Hill: If you love Italian food we recommend this restaurant. They have simple dishes but the taste is fantastic. Besides, the staff is friendly and this restaurant has a very nice atmosphere.
Tip: Be the first to ask at a restaurant if you can pay with your Dutch debit card or make sure you have contact money. In some cafés and restaurants, it is not possible to pay with a Dutch debit or credit card.
Are you looking for even more locations just across the border? Check out this round trip through Germany from Reisgenieters.
Would you like to know more about this city trip to Cologne Or has anything changed from the above text? Please let us know at [email protected]. Need more travel inspiration? Take a look at our landing page.