Cologne on a Budget
Cologne, Germany’s vibrant city on the Rhine River, is famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral, rich history, and many museums. You can enjoy exploring charming streets, enjoy some local beer, and marvel at the Cologne Cathedral without spending a fortune.
Average weather in Cologne
5 Reasons to Visit Cologne
Cologne, with its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere, invites you to explore its rich heritage and vibrant culture. From iconic landmarks to unique local experiences, the city offers something for everyone. It is a great destination to visit over the festive period.
Cologne Cathedral
Rhineland Carnival
Chocolate Museum
Historic Old Town
Rhine River Cruises
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Cologne’s highlights include the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Gothic architecture and panoramic tower views. The Roman-Germanic Museum offers fascinating Roman artifacts. Explore the vibrant Old Town, with its charming streets and historic buildings. Visit the Ludwig Museum for modern art and enjoy the scenic Rhine River walks and cruises. The Cologne Zoo and Chocolate Museum are also popular attractions.
Cologne has an excellent public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains operated by KVB. The Cologne Card offers unlimited travel and discounts on attractions. Biking is popular with many rental options and bike paths throughout the city. Walking is pleasant in areas like the Old Town and along the Rhi
The best times to visit Cologne are spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and vibrant city events. Spring is perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and flower displays, while Autumn provides cooler temperatures and seasonal festivals. Summer is lively with festivals but can be crowded, and winter, with its Christmas markets, offers a festive atmosphere despite the chill.
In Cologne, try Kölsch beer, a light, crisp ale brewed locally. Enjoy traditional dishes like Himmel un Ääd (black pudding with apples and mashed potatoes) and Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef roast). Don’t miss sampling local pastries like Kölner Karnevalsbömmel. Visit the traditional breweries, such as Früh and Gaffel, for an authentic taste of Cologne’s culinary heritage. The city’s diverse dining scene offers a range of international and local options.
Yes, Cologne is great for families. The Cologne Zoo is a popular spot with a wide variety of animals and family-friendly activities. The Cologne Chocolate Museum offers interactive exhibits that kids will love. Explore the Odysseum, an interactive science adventure park. Many parks and playgrounds, like the Rheinpark, provide outdoor fun. The city’s family-friendly restaurants and accommodations make it a comfortable destination for all ages.
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A great page to find a last minute holiday deal! I’ve always got the link you need in my linktree as so many of you ask me for it.
If you’re on a tight budget and just want to get away for a bit of sun, it’s the perfect place to look 🫶🏻
Links in my linktree are affiliate links, that just means I earn commission if anyone clicks one one and book (at no extra cost to you - it’s how we afford to run The Travel Mum) xx
#thetravelmum #familytravel #lastminuteholiday #holidaydeals
Aug 25
A great page to find a last minute holiday deal! I’ve always got the link you need in my linktree as so many of you ask me for it.
If you’re on a tight budget and just want to get away for a bit of sun, it’s the perfect place to look 🫶🏻
Links in my linktree are affiliate links, that just means I earn commission if anyone clicks one one and book (at no extra cost to you - it’s how we afford to run The Travel Mum) xx
#thetravelmum #familytravel #lastminuteholiday #holidaydeals
Does anyone actually enjoy perfectly polished family travel videos? The ones where the kids never cry, the parents never argue, and everyone’s effortlessly smiling on a sunset beach? 🌅
Because honestly… I don’t.
And yet, here I am - working in a space where that’s sort of what’s expected. Pretty feeds. Perfect moments. Carefree families. Effortless experiences. But behind the camera? Tantrums are obviously had, fights break out, and someone’s usually mid-meltdown (…often me 🙃).
Here’s the thing: I love sharing tips and showing you amazing places, but I never want to pretend family travel is easy or perfect. It’s messy. It’s chaotic. It’s real life squeezed into new places - but, that’s where the best memories are made, and it’s the reality I want to share more of. ❤️
#instavsreality #familytravel #thetravelmum
Aug 23
Does anyone actually enjoy perfectly polished family travel videos? The ones where the kids never cry, the parents never argue, and everyone’s effortlessly smiling on a sunset beach? 🌅
Because honestly… I don’t.
And yet, here I am - working in a space where that’s sort of what’s expected. Pretty feeds. Perfect moments. Carefree families. Effortless experiences. But behind the camera? Tantrums are obviously had, fights break out, and someone’s usually mid-meltdown (…often me 🙃).
Here’s the thing: I love sharing tips and showing you amazing places, but I never want to pretend family travel is easy or perfect. It’s messy. It’s chaotic. It’s real life squeezed into new places - but, that’s where the best memories are made, and it’s the reality I want to share more of. ❤️
#instavsreality #familytravel #thetravelmum
£350pp HALF BOARD in the October Half term with flights AND daily park tickets! 🤩
I’ll start by saying our stay here was part of a previous campaign with magicbreaks, but I didn’t need to post about it again (I saw the half term prices and had to share)
We absolutely loved our stay at Portaventura World, its impossible for the kids to get bored, the pool areas are really relaxed (as most people are at the park) and the half board allows you to eat in the park for lunch if you wish!
I have a highlight on here showing our trip there. I also have a blog post if you want to know more.
The £350pp is based on 27th - 30th October staying at the Hotel Caribe on a half board basis - shared by a family of 4. (family of 5 rooms are available)
I’ve put the link you need to book in my linktree - not an affiliate link.
#thetravelmum #portaventuraworld #familytravel #themeparks
Aug 20
£350pp HALF BOARD in the October Half term with flights AND daily park tickets! 🤩
I’ll start by saying our stay here was part of a previous campaign with magicbreaks, but I didn’t need to post about it again (I saw the half term prices and had to share)
We absolutely loved our stay at Portaventura World, its impossible for the kids to get bored, the pool areas are really relaxed (as most people are at the park) and the half board allows you to eat in the park for lunch if you wish!
I have a highlight on here showing our trip there. I also have a blog post if you want to know more.
The £350pp is based on 27th - 30th October staying at the Hotel Caribe on a half board basis - shared by a family of 4. (family of 5 rooms are available)
I’ve put the link you need to book in my linktree - not an affiliate link.
#thetravelmum #portaventuraworld #familytravel #themeparks
Have you done a cruise with a baby before?!
Traveling with kids is one thing, with a baby who has just learnt to walk is a whole other ball game 🫠🙃
I’ve written a blog over on our website with more details about our trip 😅🫶🏻
#cruisewithkids #familycruise #marelladiscovery #marellacruises
Aug 18
Have you done a cruise with a baby before?!
Traveling with kids is one thing, with a baby who has just learnt to walk is a whole other ball game 🫠🙃
I’ve written a blog over on our website with more details about our trip 😅🫶🏻
#cruisewithkids #familycruise #marelladiscovery #marellacruises
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