10 Days in Cologne: A Journey of Discovery

Alex Grzesik

30 Nov 2023

Embark on a 10-day adventure in Cologne, Germany, and uncover the city's hidden gems. From stunning parks and zoos to fascinating museums and castles, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and excitement. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cologne!

Trip to Cologne

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Riverside Bliss and Wildlife Wonders

$19

$ 4

Large landscaped park on both banks of the Rhine, with fountains, playgrounds, a cableway & tours.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

13 - 16 min

Directions

Long-established zoo with elephant park, aquarium & rainforest house, plus bird shows.

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

•

$19

Day 2Exploring Nature's Treasures and Botanical Delights

$ 4

Nature reserve covered with forest, with streams & bogs, home to diverse plants & wildlife.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

17 - 21 min

Directions

Garden with 11.5 hectares of plants from all climatic zones, plus spring blooms & greenhouses.

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

•

Day 3Wilderness Retreat and Chocolate Delights

$15

$ 4

Large wildlife habitat & conservation area of meadows, forests & streams, plus marked trails.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

30 - 36 min

Directions

Exhibits tracing the history of chocolate, from the Aztecs to today, housed in waterside museum.

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

•

$15

10 - 15 min

Directions

Spacious cobblestone plaza lined with cafes & renowned for its annual Christmas market.

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

•

Free

Day 4Artistic Marvels and Interactive Discovery

$38

$ 4

The formerly private collection of Peter Ludwig, with paintings, ceramics, sketches & prints.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$19

10 - 12 min

Directions

High-tech & interactive science & technology museum aimed at children, plus 3D cinema & live shows.

10:30 AM - 1:30 PM

•

$19

Day 5The Majestic Cologne Cathedral

Landmark Gothic cathedral with a huge facade, plus guided tours & Rhine views.

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 6A Day of Thrills and Adventure at Phantasialand

$50

Popular theme park with roller coasters & other thrill rides, plus stage shows & accommodation.

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

•

$50

Day 7Serene Gardens and Animal Encounters

$ 4

Refined locale with a beer garden offering light fare & local dishes in a park setting.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

Free

10 - 12 min

Directions

Up-close contact with animals from Highland cows to deer & peacocks at this eco-minded parkland zoo.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Day 8Strolling through Volksgarten and Visiting Brühl Castle

$19

$ 4

This picturesque green space established in 1890 has a pond, playground & trails, plus an old fort.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

22 - 27 min

Directions

Rococo style palace from the 18th century with opulent interiors, expansive gardens & guided tours.

10:30 AM - 1:30 PM

•

$19

Day 9Fairytales Come to Life and Aquatic Fun

$25

$ 4

Old-fashioned amusement park set in woodland, with dwellings modeled on Brothers Grimm fairy tales.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

29 - 35 min

Directions

Kids' slides & pool in water park complex with spa & treatment center, plus sauna for adults.

10:30 AM - 2:30 PM

•

$25

Day 10Unveiling Hidden Gems and Historical Wonders

$ 7

Park on the Rhine River with miniature golf, kids' play areas, walking paths, a bar & a restaurant.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

13 - 16 min

Directions

Wildlife park with lynxes, otters, deer, tortoises & birds of prey, plus kids' activities.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

27 - 33 min

Directions

Medieval abbey church featuring gothic architecture, ornate windows & tranquil, verdant surrounds.

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

•

Free

Budget breakdown: $214 In total

Activities & Food:$184

Transport:$30