Cologne Holidays

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Our guide on where to stay in Cologne

Find the best Cologne areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Cologne
A cathedral with two tall spires, a river with boats, and a cityscape with buildings and trees.

Altstadt-Nord

Known for its stunning cathedral and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Altstadt-Nord. Check out top attractions like Cologne Cathedral and Cologne City Museum, and jump on the metro at Appellhofplatz Breite Strasse U-Bahn or Heumarkt U-Bahn to see more of the city.

A historic building with arched windows and a patterned facade.

Old Town Cologne

5 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Cologne Cathedral and Schildergasse are a few top attractions in Old Town Cologne. Hop around the city on the metro at Heumarkt U-Bahn or Neumarkt U-Bahn and check out the area's stunning cathedral, stunning river views and popular shops.

A modern building with a unique design, featuring balconies and a glass facade.

Innenstadt

2 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Known for its stunning cathedral and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Innenstadt. Check out top attractions like Cologne Cathedral and Old Market, and jump on the metro at Heumarkt U-Bahn or Appellhofplatz Breite Strasse U-Bahn to see more of the city.

A riverside promenade with people relaxing by the water, a modern building, and a church with a steeple.

Deutz

Museums, shopping and river views highlight some notable features of Deutz. Make a stop by LANXESS Arena or Tanzbrunnen Köln while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Deutzer Freiheit U-Bahn or Deutz Koelnarena U-Bahn to get around town.

A bridge with a gothic cathedral in the background.

Altstadt-Süd

Known for its ample dining options and fascinating museums, there's plenty to explore in Altstadt-Süd. You can visit top attractions like Chocolate Museum and Schildergasse, and jump on the metro at Severinstrasse U-Bahn or Poststrasse U-Bahn to see more of the city.

Cologne Holiday

Things to do in Cologne

Shopping

The Old Market offers a vibrant public market atmosphere, perfect for local gifts and souvenirs. For a family-friendly experience, visit City Center Porz, a bustling shopping centre. Don't miss Rathaus Galerie, where you can enjoy shopping alongside entertainment options in a lively setting.

Recreation

RheinEnergieStadion buzzes with energy, perfect for sports enthusiasts looking to soak up the local atmosphere. Mediterana offers a tranquil haven with soothing body treatments, ideal for relaxation. For those who love the outdoors, Golfclub Wahn provides an exquisite golfing experience amidst beautiful scenery.

Adventure

Experience a thrilling day at Aqualand Leisure Pool, where you can enjoy exhilarating water slides and wave pools, perfect for the whole family. For stunning views, take a ride on the Cologne Cable Car, offering an adventurous glide above the Rhine River, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Nightlife

Cologne's nightlife buzzes with energy, particularly at the Musical Dome, a vibrant nightclub offering romance and entertainment amidst the city's lively atmosphere. Enjoy the unique blend of music, dancing, and socialising, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out in the heart of the city.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Cologne

Cologne offers a vibrant mix of cultural and family-friendly experiences, making it perfect for your holiday. Explore iconic attractions like the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, the festive Christmas markets, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Cologne cable car. Don't miss the fascinating Cologne City Museum for a deeper insight into the city's rich history. With a variety of museums and event venues, there's something for everyone in this lively German city.

  • LANXESS Arena: A vibrant hub of entertainment in Cologne, LANXESS Arena hosts a variety of events, from concerts to family shows. Its modern design and lively atmosphere create a fantastic experience for visitors of all ages, perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture.
  • Hohenzollern Bridge: This iconic modern bridge not only connects the city but also offers stunning views of the Rhine River and Cologne's skyline. The bridge is adorned with thousands of love locks, adding a romantic touch and a charming city vibe that reflects the spirit of Cologne.
  • Hohe Strasse: A bustling shopping street filled with an array of shops, cafes, and eateries, Hohe Strasse is the heart of Cologne's city vibes. Strolling down this lively thoroughfare, you’ll find local and international brands, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.

Best time to go to Cologne

The best time to visit Cologne is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January37.0°F (2.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
February38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April50.5°F (10.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
December39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Cologne

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Cologne.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically February, July and December) for more affordable package holidays to Cologne.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Our pick of the best Cologne Hotel Deals

Maritim Hotel Köln

Maritim Hotel Köln

Heumarkt 20 Cologne NW
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
NZ$225
11 Aug - 12 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,221 reviews)
"Room was a very good size with nice balcony and city view, but the room itself very dated like it’s stuck in the 1980’s and the aircon was just like having an oscillating fan will no cold air at all and it was 38c in Cologne so we had to keep the curtains closed to stop the room becoming a sauna, ..."

Reviewed on 5 Aug 2026

Maritim Hotel Köln
Premier Inn Köln City Süd

Premier Inn Köln City Süd

Perlengraben 2 Cologne
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
NZ$127
20 Aug - 21 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (1,009 reviews)
"Good location, a 20 minute walk to the Cathedral. Lots to see on that walk. Breakfast was amazing. Clean room. I would stay here again."

Reviewed on 7 Aug 2026

Premier Inn Köln City Süd
Steigenberger Hotel Köln

Steigenberger Hotel Köln

Habsburgerring 9-13 Cologne NW
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
NZ$192
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,005 reviews)
"When a hotel Steigenberger is indistinguishable from any mass corporate chain hotel of 4 stars and everything is ok but soulless then it is me who made a mistake by thinking it is better than that"

Reviewed on 5 Aug 2026

Steigenberger Hotel Köln
See all 922 properties in Cologne
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Cologne attractions

A cathedral with two tall spires, a river with boats, and a cityscape with buildings and trees.

Cologne Cathedral

9.2/10 (5,405 reviews)
This Gothic masterpiece houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, a significant pilgrimage site since medieval times. Climb 533 steps up the south tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Cologne's historic centre.
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A roller coaster with a wooden structure and a large wheel in the background.

Phantasialand

8.8/10 (462 reviews)
Experience seven immersive themed worlds at this premier German amusement park. Thrill-seekers shouldn't miss Taron, the world's longest multi-launch coaster, or F.L.Y., the first flying launch coaster.
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A modern stadium with a large dome and a red roof, surrounded by trees and urban buildings.

LANXESS Arena

8.6/10 (1,195 reviews)
Germany's largest multifunctional venue, LANXESS Arena dazzles with its iconic 76-meter steel arch. Enjoy perfect acoustics whether attending a concert or watching ice hockey in this architectural landmark.
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A stadium with a large open field, a truck, and a few people walking.

RheinEnergieStadion

8.2/10 (691 reviews)
Home to 1. FC Köln, this stadium pulses with one of Germany's most electrifying football atmospheres. Take a guided tour to access players' tunnels and experience the venue's distinctive four-tower design up close.
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A cobblestone square with outdoor cafes, autumn trees, and historic buildings.

Old Market

8.8/10 (2,178 reviews)
This medieval marketplace, once home to jousting tournaments, now buzzes with cafes and street performers. Wander the cobblestone streets lined with colourful gabled houses while soaking in centuries of Cologne's history.
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A glass sculpture display in a shopping mall.

Chocolate Museum

8.6/10 (1,697 reviews)
Journey through chocolate's 5,000-year history at this interactive museum with its iconic 3-meter chocolate fountain. Sample exquisite treats at the café while enjoying panoramic Rhine River views.
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A historic church with a tall spire and a modern building with balconies.

Hay Market

8.6/10 (135 reviews)
Learn about the local history of Cologne when you spend time at Hay Market. Amble around this culturally rich area's riverfront or seek out the local tours.
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Cologne Trade Fair Grounds

8.4/10 (940 reviews)
Koelnmesse hosts 60+ international trade fairs annually, making it one of Europe's most versatile exhibition centers. Attend industry-defining events like Gamescom or Anuga while enjoying Cologne's attractions.
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What to do in Cologne

Cologne: Chocolate Museum Entrance Ticket

Cologne: Chocolate Museum Entrance Ticket

NZ$37
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Cologne: Chocolate Museum Entrance Ticket
The bridge near the cathedral in Cologne

KölnCard - City Pass

NZ$35
per traveller
80% of travellers recommend
KölnCard - City Pass
Outdoor seating at the Hard Rock Cafe in Cologne

Hard Rock Cafe Cologne Dining Experience

NZ$56
per adult
82% of travellers recommend
Hard Rock Cafe Cologne Dining Experience
See all activities in Cologne

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Cologne holiday package cost?
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a holiday to Cologne costs! Our packages make travel planning easier and your savings go further.
What are the cheapest months to go to Cologne?
If you're looking to snag a cheap Cologne holiday package, consider travelling in January, February and March. You'll typically find better rates on hotels and airfares during these months — ideal for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Cologne?
With about 2 days, you'll have enough time to visit popular neighbourhoods like Innenstadt and Old Town Cologne during your Cologne holiday. Make sure to also add Museum Ludwig and Cologne Philharmonic to your sightseeing itinerary. Searching for more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Cologne on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Cologne?
Whether you're looking to explore key attractions like Cologne Cathedral and Chocolate Museum on your Cologne holiday, or coming for its excellent nightlife, culture and history, there's something for everyone here. With so much to experience, you'll quickly learn why so many families think Cologne is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Cologne package deals?
Begin your search for a Cologne package deal by entering your destination and preferred trip dates under our "Packages" tab. Then add a few filters, like "Property type" and "Amenities," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with unbeatable savings. If you don't find the ideal Cologne package deal straight away, just tweak your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Cologne getaway off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Cologne holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Cologne retreat by booking a customised holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to see the best hotel prices and airfares. Bundling can save travellers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may land a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Cologne?
Secure incredible bargains by reserving your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, snap up one of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Cologne break.
How to plan a trip to Cologne?
  1. Choose your dates: What you plan to do in Cologne and your favourite season can help you decide when to go.
  2. Plan your budget wisely: Besides the price of your stay, you should consider other expenses too. These include transportation, food and flights. Also, put aside a little extra for unexpected costs that may arise during your trip to Cologne.
  3. Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the sights and activities you'd like to get to in Cologne. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, including any travel time.
  4. Bundle your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to choose a Cologne holiday package that brings all your bookings together.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.