How Many Days in Cologne Do You Need (And What to Do With Them) 2025

Cologne, Germany, is a city I’d include on almost any Germany itinerary. And no, that’s not just because I grew up nearby, I genuinely think it’s well worth a visit.

The city has one of the prettiest old towns, lively markets, and one of the most impressive cathedrals in the country. On top of that Cologne has such a rich culture with Carnival in Cologne being a massive celebration and Christmas in Cologne turns the city into a beautiful winter wonderland with super cute Christmas Markets.

Since I grew up close by, I’ve visited Cologne countless times over the years and know my way around pretty well. So, to help you plan, here’s a quick guide to answer the question: how many days in Cologne you need and exactly what to do with them.

How Many Days in Cologne – My Experience & Quick Answer

I grew up just outside Cologne, so naturally, I’ve visited countless times, sometimes for a quick day trip, other times for a full weekend. And honestly, I’ve enjoyed it every single time.

I’m definitely the kind of traveler who could spend days in a city, exploring sights, finding local spots, and just wandering, but I know that when you’re on a Germany or Europe trip, time isn’t always on your side.

I’d say two days in Cologne is ideal. It gives you enough time to see the main sights, enjoy the atmosphere, and not feel rushed. If you only have one day, that works too. I’ve done plenty of day trips and still managed to see a lot. Three days, though, is even better. It means you can take things at a slower pace or even head out on a little day trip to the surrounding areas.

The only time I’d definitely add an extra day is during Carnival or Christmas. Both are huge events, and between parades, celebrations, and wandering through the Christmas markets, you’ll want that extra time to enjoy the festivities.

1 Day in Cologne Germany

A day trip to Cologne can be surprisingly full, and I’ve done plenty of them myself. Whenever I go for just the day, I usually start in the heart of the city, the Old Town and Cologne Cathedral. 

If it’s your first time here, the cathedral deserves your full attention. It’s the city’s crown jewel, and yes, climbing its 500-plus steps to the top is a bit of a challenge, but the views are worth every step (and calf burn).

After that, I wander through the Old Market and Heumarkt, two of the prettiest parts of Cologne, especially in winter when the most beautiful Christmas markets in Cologne take over the squares and turn everything into a festive wonderland.

For museums, I like to mix it up depending on my mood. The Chocolate Museum is always fun (and yes, there are free samples), but if you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, the Ludwig Museum is a great pick for modern art.

I usually finish the day in either the Studentenviertel or the Belgian Quarter, both are packed with lively pubs, great spots for a hearty dinner, and plenty of opportunities for one last Kölsch before heading back.

How to Spend 2 Days in Cologne

If I have a second day in Cologne, there are a few extra things I’d definitely want to include, even though one day already covers most of the essentials.

One of my top picks would be a proper walking tour of the Old Town. I haven’t done one in years, but Cologne has layers of history worth hearing about, from its Roman roots to its role in the Catholic Church to the devastation of World War II. A guided tour really brings that to life and gives you a sense of just how old (and resilient) this city is.

If you’d rather focus on Cologne’s fun side, I’d suggest a brewery tour. Kölsch beer is something of a local icon, though Germans love to debate whether it’s actually good (I personally think that it doesn’t deserve all the hate but that’s just my opinion!). Regardless, sampling it in a traditional beer hall is half the fun.

For a classic (and yes, slightly touristy)dinner and beer experience, Gaffel am Dom right next to the cathedral is hard to beat. If you prefer something more local and laid-back, the Aachener Weiher beer garden is my personal top pick, but only on a sunny day when the atmosphere is at its best.

3 Days in Cologne Germany

If I get to have a full three days in Cologne, I like to use that extra time to explore beyond the city center and Old Town.

One option is the Cologne Zoo, which I used to really enjoy. It’s especially fun if you’re traveling with kids, and right next to it is the botanical garden, a surprisingly peaceful spot with beautifully maintained grounds. Both are an easy tram ride from the center.

Alternatively, you could use your third day for a day trip. Bonn and Düsseldorf are both less than an hour away by train and make for fantastic quick getaways. 

Düsseldorf has a charming Old Town, a lively nightlife scene, and plenty of shopping. Bonn, on the other hand, is full of history as Germany’s former capital before Berlin took over. Either way, Germany’s excellent public transport makes it easy to visit without an overnight stay.

One last personal recommendation: catch a football match. 1. FC Köln, Cologne’s Bundesliga team, plays at the RheinEnergieStadion, and the atmosphere is incredible with passionate fans, chants echoing through the stadium, and proper first-league action. Just make sure to book tickets in advance, as matches can sell out quickly.

Where to Stay in Cologne Germany

Whenever I visit Cologne, I always try to stay as central as possible. The Old Town and city center are incredibly walkable, which means I can explore most sights on foot. Plus, being close to the main train station makes everything easier, especially if you’re interrailing or traveling through Germany by train.

When you’re browsing maps or booking.com, look for places on the west side of the Rhine River and ideally within the area bordered by the Ring (Hohenzollernring Road). Anywhere within that zone keeps you close to the center, and the closer you are to the Old Market or Cologne Cathedral, the better.

Here are a few hotels I’ve stayed at over the years and would recommend, covering a range of budgets:

Book Here: Maritim Hotel Köln

Book Here: Stadthotel am Römerturm

Book Here: Garner Hotel Cologne

FAQs About How How Many Days in Cologne is Enough

Is Cologne worth visiting?

Absolutely. I’d include it on most of my Germany itineraries. I wouldn’t stay as long as I would in Berlin or Munich, but Cologne is definitely worth at least a day or two. The Cologne Cathedral alone is worth the trip and if you’re here during the holidays, the Christmas markets make it even better.

What are the best things to do in Cologne?

I love wandering the Old Town, especially around the Old Market and Heumarkt. The Cologne Cathedral is a must, but I also enjoy the city’s lively summer vibe, especially in the Belgium Quarter where cafés and bars spill out onto the streets.

Why visit Cologne?

Cologne is fascinating from a historical perspective, it started as a Roman settlement over 2,000 years ago and has grown into a cultural hub with plenty of character. It’s fun, it’s unique, and it feels distinctly different from Germany’s other big cities.

What is a must-see in Cologne, Germany?

The number one landmark is the Cologne Cathedral, one of the largest and most striking cathedrals in the country. I highly recommend climbing the 500+ steps to the top for an incredible view over the city.

Final Thoughts on How Many Days in Cologne

Cologne may not be my number one pick out of Germany’s big cities (Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich take that title for me), but I still think it’s well worth a visit, especially for one or two days.

Two days give you time to explore Cologne’s history, wander the Old Town, and enjoy its lively atmosphere. 

If you’re visiting during Carnival, expect big crowds and a party vibe like no other. But my personal favorite time to visit is Christmas in Cologne, the Christmas markets in Cologne are some of my absolute favorites in Germany.

I hope this little guide helps you figure out how many days in Cologne you might need and what to do with them. Even one day will give you a great taste of the city, but if you can stay longer, you won’t regret it.

Check Out My Cologne Germany Travel Guides

The Best Time to Visit Cologne Germany: My Seasonal Guide

How Many Days in Cologne Do You Need: My Day by Day Guide

Food in Cologne Germany: My Top Restaurants in Cologne

1 Day in Cologne: One Day Cologne Itinerary

Is Cologne Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

Where to Stay in Cologne Germany: My Top Hotels & Areas

Things to Do in Cologne Germany: My Top Activities

Christmas Markets Cologne Germany: My Favorite Christmas Markets