Cologne, Germany
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
Recommended Hotels
Family-Friendly Activities
RELATED ARTICLES
DIY Deals
FAQs
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.
Keep up to date...
This is a great family holiday option. There are a variety of themed onsite hotels at Portaventura and also peripheral hotels that often include tickets.
Comment “Spain” and I’ll send you a DM with some links. For a lower budget option, look at peripheral hotels. We loved the onsite Colorado creek but it is on the more expensive side of how you can visit.
Links we send are affiliate links. We aren’t asked to post or promote particular places.
#thetravelmum #portaventuraworld #themeparkholiday #familytravel
Apr 15
This is a great family holiday option. There are a variety of themed onsite hotels at Portaventura and also peripheral hotels that often include tickets.
Comment “Spain” and I’ll send you a DM with some links. For a lower budget option, look at peripheral hotels. We loved the onsite Colorado creek but it is on the more expensive side of how you can visit.
Links we send are affiliate links. We aren’t asked to post or promote particular places.
#thetravelmum #portaventuraworld #themeparkholiday #familytravel
There are some fab holiday deals for May half term this year, usually it’s a super pricey time to travel! The code SAVEONSUMMER currently gets you another £100 off Jet2holidays - this can be used with our link that gets you a £50 voucher too!
The links we share are affiliate links.
We have lots of great family holiday deals over on our website thetravelmum.com
#thetravelmum #jet2holidays #holidaydeals #familytravel
Apr 14
There are some fab holiday deals for May half term this year, usually it’s a super pricey time to travel! The code SAVEONSUMMER currently gets you another £100 off Jet2holidays - this can be used with our link that gets you a £50 voucher too!
The links we share are affiliate links.
We have lots of great family holiday deals over on our website thetravelmum.com
#thetravelmum #jet2holidays #holidaydeals #familytravel
The first thing we noticed online is how many “regulars” this place seems to have. People don’t just go once, they return year on year. The best sign of a great place. And after visiting we can see why. Although it is expensive, you get what you pay for. The ease of everything already being covered means the holiday feels like a holiday. We didn’t have to say no to the kids when they wanted to do an activity, they could do whatever they wanted.
To help you with the cost I’ve got you a discount code for £100 off per person! Which is a huge saving for a family. Comment “potters” and I’ll send you the code and more info. You need to book this month for either May bank hol, May half term, or the summer hols.
We were invited for a PR visit but had no pressure to post. I always tell brands that we won’t promote something if we don’t think it’s fab 🫶🏻❤️
#pottersresort #thetravelmum #allinclusiveresort #uktravel
Apr 13
The first thing we noticed online is how many “regulars” this place seems to have. People don’t just go once, they return year on year. The best sign of a great place. And after visiting we can see why. Although it is expensive, you get what you pay for. The ease of everything already being covered means the holiday feels like a holiday. We didn’t have to say no to the kids when they wanted to do an activity, they could do whatever they wanted.
To help you with the cost I’ve got you a discount code for £100 off per person! Which is a huge saving for a family. Comment “potters” and I’ll send you the code and more info. You need to book this month for either May bank hol, May half term, or the summer hols.
We were invited for a PR visit but had no pressure to post. I always tell brands that we won’t promote something if we don’t think it’s fab 🫶🏻❤️
#pottersresort #thetravelmum #allinclusiveresort #uktravel
Which is your favourite Merlin theme park?!
If you buy a ticket to any park before the 19th April, you get a second ticket for free. That can be at any of the other parks.
I’ve put the links to redeem this offer in my linktree which you can find in my bio - the links we share are affiliate links.
#themeparks #thetravelmum #thorpepark #altontowers
Apr 7
Which is your favourite Merlin theme park?!
If you buy a ticket to any park before the 19th April, you get a second ticket for free. That can be at any of the other parks.
I’ve put the links to redeem this offer in my linktree which you can find in my bio - the links we share are affiliate links.
#themeparks #thetravelmum #thorpepark #altontowers
Unlock the perfect
Cheap holiday
Build a custom DIY trip in 30 seconds!