3 days in Cologne
Created by Laura Silver 
Day 1
This skyscraper offers commanding views of the Cologne Cathedral and invites visitors to look at exhibitions, eat at its Mongolian barbecue restaurant and take in views of the surrounding area from its Panorama Observatory. Entrance to the building is free, access to the viewing platform costs 3 euros. Open Oct. 1 to April 30, Monday-Friday from noon-6 p.m., from 10 a.m. on weekends...
More
This skyscraper offers commanding views of the Cologne Cathedral and invites visitors to look at exhibitions, eat at its Mongolian barbecue restaurant and take in views of the surrounding area from its Panorama Observatory. Entrance to the building is free, access to the viewing platform costs 3 euros. Open Oct. 1 to April 30, Monday-Friday from noon-6 p.m., from 10 a.m. on weekends. May through September open until 10 p.m. Less
This giant Gothic cathedral, which until its completion in 1880 had been under construction for over 500 years, is perhaps Germany's most famous religious structure and includes two huge towers that serve as the defining symbol of Cologne's skyline.
This famous Romanesque cathedral, re-opened in 1985 following extreme damage during World War II, takes second billing behind only the Dom as Cologne's most prominent religious structure.
Day 2
The installations and the pools are very big. The price is quite reasonable and staff are friendly. The pools are divided into connected inside and... more »
Cacti and plant houses make up this garden, which dates from the 1800s, along the Rhine River. Gardens are open 8 a.m. until dusk daily. Plant houses are open October to March 10 a.m.-4 p.m., April to September 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
This art museum houses a diverse collection that includes everything from Dali to Warhol to one of the world's largest Picasso collections. Open Tuesday to Sunday (including public holidays) from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., every first Thursday of the month until 10 p.m.
Day 3
This impressive museum houses artwork covering every genre from the 13th century through the 19th century.
This museum houses an impressive collection of classical art, including the famous Dionysus mosaic and the tomb of Publicus.
One of Cologne's 12 churches built in Romenesque style, Saint Gereon's Basilica dates to the 11th century and has unique architectural features including a dome, an intricate floor mosaic of David and Goliath and the remains of Roman walls. Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. It is not possible to visit the church during Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. and...
More
One of Cologne's 12 churches built in Romenesque style, Saint Gereon's Basilica dates to the 11th century and has unique architectural features including a dome, an intricate floor mosaic of David and Goliath and the remains of Roman walls. Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. It is not possible to visit the church during Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Less
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
About this expert
Laura Silver is a writer who lives in New York. She rides a bike there and wherever she travels.
Places on this tour
Map Loading …