Cologne City Breaks

A guide to Cologne

Short breaks to Cologne will suit fans looking for a small and relaxing weekend break destination in Germany. This hugely appealing city has all the key ingredients for a rewarding weekend away: a compact historic centre, romantic architecture, a thriving cultural scene, first-class restaurants and cosmopolitan nightlife. Add the River Rhine and you have one of the most compelling destinations in the country. Cologne is a small-scale city ideally suited for romantic weekends, and the city is notable for its spacious squares and easy-going atmosphere. Visitors will focus on the Alstadt, the attractive old city centre that flanks the Rhine, as well as the world-famous cathedral, which is complemented by a collection of superb Romanesque churches.

Romance on the River Rhine

Cologne has very wide-ranging appeal, and boasts outstanding galleries, entertaining museums, atmospheric markets, important Roman remains, a respected zoo and charming botanical gardens. All visitors should find time for the famous cable car and a boat trip on the River Rhine. A year-round programme of events and festivals includes fantastic carnival celebrations in February, and a lively Gay Pride event in summer. Cologne offers some of the most enjoyable nightlife and finest dining in Germany, and the famous brewhouses are the place to sample local Kölsch beer in a rollicking, good-time atmosphere. Pavement cafes and open-air restaurants are busy throughout the summer holiday season, and nightlife offers something for everyone. You will find superb classical concerts, entertaining cabaret, plenty of live music and a vibrant clubbing scene throughout the city.

Charming Christmas markets

Winter breaks to Cologne owe their popularity to the festive Chritmas markets and wonderfully cosy inns and restaurants, and the city is delightfully festive. Visits in February may coincide with Germany’s largest carnival celebration, and you can get some very affordable deals in spring and autumn, when the city is a good deal quieter than summer, and temperatures are ideal for relaxed sightseeing.