Famous for the fragrance of Cologne water, the city of the same name - Köln in German - has some wonderful sights in store for you. Nicknamed the "Rome of the North" because of its strong historical past, the city has embraced modernity without sacrificing the splendor of its ancient vestiges. The superb cathedral, which can be admired against a backdrop of greenery in Rheinpark, is a must-see. A long weekend won't go amiss for a leisurely visit to the city's treasures. Discover our itinerary tips for visiting Cologne in 3 days.
Day 1: From the Old Town to the Rheinpark
Soak up the historic atmosphere of the city by starting your 2-3 day weekend in Cologne in the heart of its historic center.
Morning 1: Cologne's Old Town and Cathedral
Cologne's Old Town - Altstadt - has its fair share of landmarks: Alter Markt, Rathaus, Fish Market and Neumarkt. Your stroll through the Old Town leads you to the majestic, UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral, a true Gothic masterpiece dating from the XIIIᵉ century. In fact, Cologne Cathedral is one of the most beautiful sights to visit in Germany, such is its majestic architecture. However, we recommend arriving early to visit it, to avoid the crowds.
Activities to book: Discover Cologne's historic old town by booking this tour with a local guide who will show you the city's most beautiful spots and give you tips for your stay.
Keep strolling until you reach the Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its love locks and panoramic views, including of the cathedral. If you come back in the evening, you'll have a breathtaking view of the illuminated cathedral from here. Your steps will then lead you to Agnesviertel, a colorful and lively district appreciated for its bohemian atmosphere.
Petit Futé tip: Cologne is particularly magical during Christmas, when the square around the cathedral lights up!
Afternoon 1: Quartier Belge and Rheinpark
After a hearty local meal, it's time to take a leisurely stroll to the Rheinparkvoted Germany's best park in 2007. This vast green space is perfect for a family stroll, with its beaches, open-air theater and little train. The park's 14 ornamental fountains are a delight to behold, taking refuge in a peaceful setting. The park, with its colorful trees and flowers, is a haven of peace in the heart of the city.
Now you're ready to explore one of the city's most emblematic districts: the Quartier Belge(Belgisches Viertel). Lively and trendy, it welcomes you to a cheerful hubbub of boutiques, bars and other party venues. It's the ideal place to enjoy Kölsch, a typical Cologne beer, accompanied by Halve Hahn, a rye bread with Gouda cheese. The district is renowned for its festive atmosphere, so don't hesitate to extend your escapade until nightfall!
Activities to book: Discover Cologne's famous brewing culture by booking this this brewery tour. You'll immerse yourself in the city's fascinating legends while enjoying a delicious Kölsch.
Day 2: A museum day to visit Cologne in 3 days
Between culture and delicacies, Cologne's museums have plenty of surprises in store for you.
Morning 2: Perfume Museum and late-morning brunch
Discover the city's flagship product: eau de Cologne! Head for the Farina House, birthplace of this famous perfume in 1708, where you'll discover the original formula still in use today. You can create your own perfume at store 4711, with expert guidance. The museum exhibits hundreds of objects spanning 300 years of perfume history, from bottles to manufacturing tools. A wonderful visit to make in Cologne during your 3-day weekend!
A visit to the Cologne Perfume Museum will only take about an hour. It's a quiet, yet typical, little tour of the city, giving you plenty of time to finish your morning witha brunch of local specialities. Good places like Saint-Louis Breakfast will delight your taste buds.
Good to know: if you book your KölnCard here , you'll enjoy free public transport and 50% discount on admission to the Perfume Museum and many other museums and attractions.
Afternoon 2: Chocolate Museum and Sports and Olympic Museum
You've been looking forward to it: the Chocolate Museumthe Chocolate Museum is one of Cologne's 13 must-see attractions, loved by gourmets young and old alike. Founded in 1993 by Hans Imhoff, it takes you on a gourmet journey through the history of chocolate, its manufacturing methods... not forgetting the (very important!) tasting phase. The highlight of your visit, which you can book right here, is the giant chocolate fountain, the wild dream of the museum's founder.
Good to know: workshops allow you to create your own sweets, for an even more immersive experience around this delicacy.
Book my ticket for the Musée du Chocolat
If you still have time on your second afternoon of your 3 days in Cologne to visit the Museum of Sport and the Olympic Games , book your ticket here. It traces 3,000 years of sporting history, with no fewer than 2,000 exhibits. Among other things, you'll discover the major developments in sport, from ancient sports to modern disciplines. Best of all, you can take part in interactive activities and enjoy sports fields on the roof, with a breathtaking view over Cologne!
Day 3: Cologne Botanical Garden and Rhine River tour
You've already immersed yourself in the lively atmosphere of this superb German city, but there are still a few must-dos for your 3-day weekend in Cologne.
Morning 3: The Botanical Garden, a must-see when visiting Cologne in 3 days
The Flora Botanical Garden is a flower-lover's paradise. As soon as you enter this shimmering paradise, you'll find 1001 plant species, offering a superb mosaic of colors. From the orangery to the Crystal Palace-inspired glass palace, floral magic is everywhere. A parterre à la française, framed by an avenue of red-flowered chestnut trees, is one of the highlights of Cologne's Flora Botanical Garden. The Italian garden, with its pergolas and waterfalls, adds a special charm. You'll also find rose gardens, a pond with water lilies, and greenhouses displaying tropical and exotic plants. Simply superb!
Once you've completed your visit, head nearby to the KölnTriangle, a huge modern tower with a 103-metre-high observation platform. While there's nothing extraordinary about the building itself, there's something quite different about the breathtaking view of Cologne, with the cathedral in the background.
Good to know: when booking this bus tour of all Cologne's must-see sights you'll pass this famous KölnTriangle!
Afternoon 3: Boat trip on the Rhine and unusual shopping center
For your last afternoon, embark on an original discovery of Cologne on the Rhine. You've earned a well-deserved rest after all the activities you've done in Cologne in 3 days! From the main quay of the Hohenzollern bridge or the zoo pier, you can admire emblematic sites such as the cathedral, the Chocolate Museum and the renovated Rheinauhafen district. This boat trip offers you a unique perspective on the city's treasures, whether aboard a steamboat (the best!) or a classic boat.
Book my boat cruise on the Rhine
Got a little time left? We invite you to discover one of Cologne's most unusual places: Globetrotter, a shopping center dedicated to outdoor sports. Spread over three floors, it's not just a place to buy... You can test your equipment in real-life conditions! Try out your future kayak in a large pool, test out rain gear in adjustable rain simulators... In short, have fun and experience your favorite sports to the full before you buy! Every piece of equipment can be put to the test, for a 100% fun experience.
Where to stay in Cologne for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
To make the most of a 2 or 3-day weekend in Cologne, you need to be comfortable. You'll find plenty of comfortable, well-located hotels close to the cathedral or the Chocolate Museum. The Old Town remains the ideal location, so as to retain a central position.
- Quiet, family-friendly and conveniently located
Is theHotel Brandenburger Hof the perfect compromise for a 3-day weekend in Cologne? Located close to the cathedral, it offers appreciable peace and quiet despite its central position in the heart of the city. Click here to to book this family-run hotel in Cologne.
- The most historic
TheHotel Stadtpalais is tangible proof that you can make something new out of something old. Located in a former bathhouse, this establishment was converted into a contemporary hotel in 2010. The result is stunning! Click here to book a room in this atypical hotel.
- The most complete
Are you looking for a hotel that's close to all the main attractions and offers a comprehensive range of services? Welcome to the Ameron Hotel Regent, with its excellent Italian restaurant. A sauna, gym and comfortable room accompany your 3-day weekend in Cologne. Book your room your room.
If you're on a road trip, Cologne is a must on your itinerary for discovering Germany. Did you know that Cologne is one of Germany's must-visit Christmas towns? Adorned with its festive lights, it's even more beautiful when the magic of Christmas takes hold of its lively streets! Germany is famous for its beautiful Christmas markets, so don't hesitate! You'll also find plenty of excitement during the Cologne Carnival, one of the best in the world, which is reputed to start on November 11 at 11.11 a.m. Are you planning a 3-day weekend in Cologne with your children? Then be sure to include the city's zoo in your itinerary. As well as the Chocolate Museum, it's a great stop-off for the youngest visitors.
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