Day Trips in Cologne

Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest cities founded by Romans in 38 BC. It is in North Rhine-Westphalia, and area full of things to do and see. Take a trip outside of the city to see what is offered in the area. 

Bonn, Germany

Bonn, Germany is only 25 south of the city and is called Cologne’s “little sister”. This is where composer Ludwig van Beethoven lived.  Bonn was actually the capital of the new “Federal Republic of Germany” and was the capital for 42 years. Old City Hall was built in 1737 and has been a popular place for famous guests of the state to give speeches to those standing in the market place. Beethoven’s house is only feet away. He was born in the house in 1770 and it is now a museum dedicated to the works of the composer. The church in town or the Münster was built in the 11th century and there are tours available. At Poppelsdorfer Schloss (palace) there are many classical concerts outdoors in the summer. The Museum Koenig for Zoology and the Art and Exhibition Hall are also good places to visit.  

Augustus-burg

Another place to visit in Cologne is Schloss Brühl, 20 miles away, where a Baroque style palace named Augustus-burg is situated.  This castle has a guided tour of the 1725 French Baroque palace.  The gardens are worth the trip alone but inside there are massive amounts of marble, beautiful frescos and ornate furniture from the period. 

Phantasialand

Near Schloss Brühl is Phantasialand, the largest theme park in Germany. Opening 40 years ago the park has grown in order to accommodate new attractions.There are roller coasters, carousels and there are many shows produced throughout the park. Inside the park is a Western style city, China town and a monorail runs through the whole park. 

Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf is close to Cologne. There is a round tower in the square that belonged to a castle that burned down in 1872. There is a tower behind that is the highest point in town and affords a very nice view of the area. There are 18 museums in town as well. The Heinrich-Heine Institute displays works of the poet who was born in town. The City Museum gives detail on the history of the region. Düsseldorf has a large collection of 20th century modern art at its art museum, Kunstsammlung. Take a tour in the brewery of a popular dark beer called “altbier”. There are several in town. 

Take the time to visit sites near Cologne to get a real feel for this region in Germany.