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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I am SO bad at keeping secrets… and this has been a big one!
It has always been a dream of mine to publish a book, so when I got a genuine book deal, it was VERY hard to not shout it from the roof tops! Excitement turned into panic when I realised I actually had to write a whole book... but it’s been an incredible journey.
This is more than just a travel book - I share things I’ve never spoken about publicly before, including some difficult moments to revisit, alongside everything I know about bargain family travel.
Thank you @dkeyewitness for bringing my ideas to life, and to @belllomaxmoreton and @mackenzieweller_management for believing in me from the very start ❤️🙏🏻
@dklivinguk #thetravelmum #familytravel #booklaunch #budgettravel
Oct 9
I am SO bad at keeping secrets… and this has been a big one!
It has always been a dream of mine to publish a book, so when I got a genuine book deal, it was VERY hard to not shout it from the roof tops! Excitement turned into panic when I realised I actually had to write a whole book... but it’s been an incredible journey.
This is more than just a travel book - I share things I’ve never spoken about publicly before, including some difficult moments to revisit, alongside everything I know about bargain family travel.
Thank you @dkeyewitness for bringing my ideas to life, and to @belllomaxmoreton and @mackenzieweller_management for believing in me from the very start ❤️🙏🏻
@dklivinguk #thetravelmum #familytravel #booklaunch #budgettravel
We made it work - and you can too.
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt since having kids, it’s that your life will be chaotic and wild whether you’re sat at home, in Tescos or on a beach somewhere lush - I know where I’ll be 😅🍹
We have always been budget travellers, and our followers are always shocked at the price we spend on our trips. Follow along for tips, inspo and help getting your family out there ❤️
#thetravelmum #familytravel #budgettravel #travelideas #travelwithbaby
Oct 8
We made it work - and you can too.
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt since having kids, it’s that your life will be chaotic and wild whether you’re sat at home, in Tescos or on a beach somewhere lush - I know where I’ll be 😅🍹
We have always been budget travellers, and our followers are always shocked at the price we spend on our trips. Follow along for tips, inspo and help getting your family out there ❤️
#thetravelmum #familytravel #budgettravel #travelideas #travelwithbaby
Taking little Kids to Japan - My honest opinion 🙃
Pros:
👶🏻 In general, it’s a country that loves kids (quiet kids… see con #1)
✨ Toilets are cleaner than your kitchen.
🚽 Toilets are fun (the “bum spray” will never lose its novelty with a 5 year old)
🎢 Disney parks are much cheaper than in the US/EU
❤️ Very safe country.
😸 They love a cartoon character. Themed cafes are everywhere.
Cons:
🤫 It is a very quiet culture. Japanese children are very well behaved. If yours are anything like mine, you’ll get a few side eyes.
✈️ Travelling so far east = Crazy jet lag - Not fun with little ones who want to get ready at 3am.
🍽️ Tiny restaurants aren’t pram friendly, and it was rare anywhere had a baby chair.
🛏️ A family room often turned out to be one double bed for us all to share. Not one place we stayed had a baby cot.
We actually had a great holiday, but it isn’t one for the faint hearted. If a cute Eurocamp holiday in France is level 1 of the family holiday world, this was definitely level 50 😅
💻 I’ve got a blog post on our website with our itinerary and what the 3 week trip cost us ❤️
#thetravelmum #familytravel #travelideas #japanwithkids
Oct 7
Taking little Kids to Japan - My honest opinion 🙃
Pros:
👶🏻 In general, it’s a country that loves kids (quiet kids… see con #1)
✨ Toilets are cleaner than your kitchen.
🚽 Toilets are fun (the “bum spray” will never lose its novelty with a 5 year old)
🎢 Disney parks are much cheaper than in the US/EU
❤️ Very safe country.
😸 They love a cartoon character. Themed cafes are everywhere.
Cons:
🤫 It is a very quiet culture. Japanese children are very well behaved. If yours are anything like mine, you’ll get a few side eyes.
✈️ Travelling so far east = Crazy jet lag - Not fun with little ones who want to get ready at 3am.
🍽️ Tiny restaurants aren’t pram friendly, and it was rare anywhere had a baby chair.
🛏️ A family room often turned out to be one double bed for us all to share. Not one place we stayed had a baby cot.
We actually had a great holiday, but it isn’t one for the faint hearted. If a cute Eurocamp holiday in France is level 1 of the family holiday world, this was definitely level 50 😅
💻 I’ve got a blog post on our website with our itinerary and what the 3 week trip cost us ❤️
#thetravelmum #familytravel #travelideas #japanwithkids
The best Waterpark and Theme park right next door?!
Rulantica is an indoor/outdoor waterpark right next door to Europa park in Rust, Germany.
#rulantica #thetravelmum #europaparkrust #traveldeals #familytravel
Oct 6
The best Waterpark and Theme park right next door?!
Rulantica is an indoor/outdoor waterpark right next door to Europa park in Rust, Germany.
#rulantica #thetravelmum #europaparkrust #traveldeals #familytravel
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