After savoring all the things to do in Cologne, from its majestic Cathedral to the charming Old Town, day trips from Cologne allow you to discover the rich tapestry of the Rhineland and beyond. These excursions offer a glimpse into medieval castles, lush vineyards, and historic cities, providing a perfect complement to your Cologne adventure.
Beyond Cologne, you’re invited to explore a wider range of things to do in Germany, from hiking in the Eifel National Park to cruising the romantic Rhine River. Each journey outside the city promises new discoveries, blending Germany’s historical depth with its natural beauty.
Choosing where to stay in Cologne is crucial for travelers aiming to immerse themselves in the city’s cultural vibrancy while being well-positioned for day trips. The right accommodation places you at the heart of Cologne, ensuring that every exploration begins and ends with the utmost convenience and comfort.
Discover Best Day Trips from Cologne, Germany
1. Aachen, Germany
Aachen is famous for its historic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Aachen Rathaus, a Gothic town hall. The city was a favorite of Charlemagne and later, the site of coronations for German kings and queens.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Historic Aachen Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Aachen Rathaus
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Aachen Cathedral: €5
- Aachen Rathaus: €4
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Katschhof Square, Carolus Thermen Spa
Travel Tip: Don’t miss trying Aachener Printen, a type of gingerbread local to the area.
2. Bonn, Germany
Bonn, the birthplace of Beethoven, is a city rich in culture and history. It offers numerous museums, the beautiful Botanical Gardens, and the old government quarter with its unique architecture.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Beethoven House, Bonn Botanical Gardens, Museums
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Beethoven House: €10
- Botanical Gardens: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rheinaue Park, Poppelsdorf Palace
Travel Tip: Visit the Beethoven House, the birthplace of the famous composer, now a museum and memorial site.
3. Düsseldorf, Germany
Düsseldorf is known for its fashion industry and art scene. The city’s Altstadt (Old Town) has been nicknamed “the longest bar in the world” due to the sheer number of pubs and breweries.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Königsallee, Rhine Promenade, Altstadt (Old Town)
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Art Collection North Rhine-Westphalia: €12
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rheinturm Tower, MedienHafen
Travel Tip: Explore the Königsallee, one of the most luxurious shopping streets in Germany, and enjoy a walk along the Rhine promenade.
4. Brühl, Germany
Brühl is home to the stunning Augustusburg and Falkenlust Palaces, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The town is also famous for Phantasialand, one of Europe’s top theme parks.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Augustusburg Palace, Falkenlust Palace, Phantasialand Theme Park
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Augustusburg Palace: €8
- Falkenlust Palace: €6
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Brühl Gardens, River Rhine Views
Travel Tip: If visiting Phantasialand, plan to spend the whole day there as the park offers numerous attractions and shows.
5. Koblenz, Germany
Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is known for its historic architecture, ancient fortress, and the Deutsches Eck (German Corner) where the two rivers meet.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Deutsches Eck, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, Rhine and Moselle Rivers Confluence
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress: €10
- Cable Car Ride: €12
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rhine and Moselle River Views, Koblenz Old Town
Travel Tip: Take a cable car ride up to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for a spectacular view of the city and the rivers.
6. Monschau, Germany
Monschau is a charming small town in the Eifel region, with well-preserved half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets. It’s nestled in a valley and surrounded by scenic hills and forests.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Historic Half-Timbered Houses, Monschau Castle, Red House Museum
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Red House Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Monschau Town Center, Rur River
Travel Tip: Try the local mustard, Monschauer Senf, and visit the Red House (Rotes Haus) for a glimpse into 18th-century living.
7. Essen, Germany
Essen is known for the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an icon of Germany’s industrial past. The city also offers a variety of museums and cultural activities.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Ruhr Museum, Essen Cathedral
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Zollverein Coal Mine: €10
- Ruhr Museum: €8
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Zollverein Complex, Essen City Center
Travel Tip: Explore the Ruhr Museum at the Zollverein complex to learn about the region’s industrial heritage.
8. Cochem, Germany
Cochem is set in the beautiful Moselle Valley, known for its romantic river landscape, vineyards, and the Reichsburg Cochem, a medieval castle. The town is also a hub for wine production in the Moselle region.
Distance: Approximately 110 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Reichsburg Cochem Castle, Moselle River, Vineyards
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Reichsburg Cochem: €6
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Moselle Valley, Cochem Old Town
Travel Tip: Enjoy a river cruise on the Moselle and don’t miss tasting the local Riesling wines.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Cologne, Germany
What are some recommended day trips from Cologne?
Popular day trips from Cologne include visiting the picturesque town of Brühl, exploring the historic city of Bonn, taking a Rhine River cruise, and visiting the charming town of Monschau.
Is a visit to the Phantasialand theme park worth it?
Absolutely! Located in Brühl, Phantasialand is one of Germany’s top theme parks, offering a variety of thrilling rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. It’s a great family-friendly destination near Cologne.
Can I explore the Aachen Cathedral on a day trip?
Yes, Aachen, known for its historic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is easily accessible from Cologne. The city’s rich history and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit destination.
Are there wine tasting tours in the Rhine Valley?
Yes, the Rhine Valley is renowned for its wine production. There are many wine tasting tours available, offering a chance to sample some of Germany’s finest wines amidst picturesque vineyard settings.
What natural landscapes can I see near Cologne?
The Eifel National Park, located southwest of Cologne, offers stunning natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and wildlife. It’s perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
Is a trip to the Drachenfels in the Seven Mountains worth it?
Definitely! The Drachenfels, part of the Seven Mountains range, offers breathtaking views of the Rhine River and the surrounding countryside. You can reach the summit by foot, train, or cable car.
Can I visit the medieval town of Cochem from Cologne?
Yes, Cochem, with its iconic Reichsburg Castle and scenic location along the Moselle River, is a wonderful day trip from Cologne. The town is known for its historic charm and wine culture.
Are there guided tours to the Neanderthal Museum?
Guided tours are available to the Neanderthal Museum, located in the scenic Neander Valley. The museum offers fascinating insights into the history of human evolution.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/cologne-l19?activity_type=dayTrip
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