Frankfurt , Germany

Cologne Day Trip from Frankfurt

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the historic city of Cologne on this full-day trip from Frankfurt. Your tour guide will show you the most important sights of this 2000 year old city. Visit the world-famous Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the city's historic old town and enjoy free time to explore the local shops and do some independent sightseeing. Discover the city's Roman heritage at your own pace, including the beautiful Town Hall (Rathaus), and sample Koelsch, Cologne’s famous local beer! Then, immerse yourself in the picturesque medieval city of Limburg before returning to Frankfurt.

Available options

Cologne Day Trip from Frankfurt

What's included

Professional guide

Cologne sightseeing tour

Transportation

Detailed itinerary

******VISIT THE FAMOUS CHRISTMAS MARKET IN COLOGNE, OPEN FROM 17TH NOV. TILL 23RD DEC. 2025******

This morning we start from our departure offices for a ride over the highway to Cologne. The road is one of the most important traffic links between the Federal States of Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia. Time enough to chat with your guide on German infra-structure. Although we are moving between two of Germany's strongest industrial zones, the country is green. Left and right the road are many forest areas and expansive fields.

Stop 2

Upon arrival our tour guide will take you on a sightseeing tour through Cologne. The 2000 year old city offers countless historical sights and is nowadays a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis. You can see the old town with its busy breweries, pubs and restaurants, the small old market places, the traditional old houses along the river banks, churches and renowned museums (among them the Romano-Germanic Museum, with a large collection of Roman artefacts. Cologne was founded by the ancient Romans). The Ludwig Museum of Modern Art counts among the leading European galleries. Various shopping lanes offer a large variety of bargains , also in smaller local shops and boutiques.

Time for a visit of the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral, UNESCO World Heritage Site and the absolute climax of this excursion. Marvel the golden Shrine of the Three Magi and the magnificent church window of Gerhard Richter.

Afterwards, use you free time to explore the city on your own.

On our way back we will do a stopover in Limburg. The old bishop's residence is not well known among visitors from abroad. You'll be surprised by the cute and well preserved medieval center und the wonderful cathedral.
Via highway back to Frankfurt.

What's not included

Admission fees for Tower Climb and Treasure Chamber of the Cologne Cathedral (approx. 6.00 euros)

Gratuities

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.6

31 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

******VISIT THE FAMOUS CHRISTMAS MARKET IN COLOGNE, OPEN FROM 17TH NOV. TILL 23RD DEC. 2025******

Infants and children must sit in a child seat, which means they need a separate seat, no matter which age (legal regulation)

We can only carry foldable wheelchairs with us.

Meeting point

Departure at 09:30 am / Frankfurt, Wiesenhuettenplatz 38 / SIDEWALK
Your guide will pick you up there! Meeting time: always 10 minutes before departure
Take note: Do not enter the hotel Le Meridien at this place, we do not pick up in the hotel lobby and also not directly at the entrance.

About Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a vibrant city that beautifully blends modern architecture with historic charm. Known for its impressive skyline, rich cultural scene, and as Germany's financial hub, it offers a unique urban experience with a strong connection to the Main River and lush green parks.

Top Attractions

Römerberg

Römerberg is the historic heart of Frankfurt, featuring a beautiful square surrounded by medieval buildings, including the Römer town hall. It's a great place to experience the city's rich history and architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Museumsufer

Museumsufer is a unique cultural district along the Main River, home to some of Frankfurt's most important museums. With over 20 museums covering various topics, it's a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.

Cultural Half day to full day Varies by museum, some are free on the first Sunday of the month.

Palmengarten

Palmengarten is a beautiful botanical garden and park in Frankfurt, featuring a variety of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world. It's a peaceful oasis in the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours €7 for adults, €3.50 for children (free for children under 6)

Main Tower

Main Tower is one of Frankfurt's most iconic skyscrapers, offering a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck. It's a great place to enjoy the city's skyline and learn about its modern architecture.

Architecture 1 hour €10.50 for adults, €6.50 for children (free for children under 6)

Zeitgeist

Zeitgeist is a lively bar and club in Frankfurt, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse music scene. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to experience the city's nightlife.

Entertainment Varies Free entry, drinks vary in price

Must-Try Local Dishes

Frankfurter Grüne Soße

A traditional Frankfurt dish made with a green sauce consisting of seven fresh herbs, boiled eggs, and potatoes. It's often served with boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian

Frankfurter Rippchen

A traditional Frankfurt dish made with pork chops, sauerkraut, and a dark beer sauce. It's often served with potato dumplings or boiled potatoes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork

Frankfurter Kranz

A traditional Frankfurt cake made with layers of sponge cake, buttercream, and chocolate. It's often decorated with almonds and chocolate shavings.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts

Apfelwein

A traditional apple wine from the Frankfurt region, made with a blend of sweet and sour apples. It's often served in traditional apple wine taverns and is a popular accompaniment to local dishes.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Taunus Mountains Cycling along the Main River Kayaking or canoeing on the Main River Visiting the Palmengarten botanical garden Relaxing at a thermal bath (e.g., Taunus Therme) Enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Main River Exploring the Museumsufer cultural district Visiting the Römerberg historic square

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Frankfurt as the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and parks. The city is lively with various cultural events and festivals.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Turkish, Russian
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Frankfurt is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always agree on the fare or use the meter before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys, as they may be trying to distract you or steal your belongings.

Getting there

By air

Frankfurt Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, Frankfurt Süd

By bus

Frankfurt Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The S-Bahn is a fast and efficient way to get around Frankfurt and the surrounding region. It consists of nine lines and connects the city center with the suburbs and nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Altstadt (Old Town) Sachsenhausen Westend Bornheim Bahnhofsviertel

Day trips

Heidelberg

85 km from Frankfurt • Full day

Heidelberg is a romantic and historic city located in the Neckar Valley, known for its beautiful castle, charming old town, and picturesque scenery. It's a popular day trip from Frankfurt, offering a glimpse into Germany's rich history and culture.

Rheinauhafen (Cologne)

190 km from Frankfurt • Full day

Rheinauhafen is a vibrant and modern district in Cologne, known for its striking architecture, museums, and riverside promenade. It's a great day trip from Frankfurt for those interested in contemporary art, history, and architecture.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

180 km from Frankfurt • Full day

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a picturesque medieval town located in the Franconia region of Germany. Known for its well-preserved old town, fairy-tale-like atmosphere, and rich history, it's a popular day trip destination from Frankfurt.

Festivals

Museumsuferfest • Late August to early September Frankfurt Christmas Market • Late November to late December Dippemess • April and October

Pro tips

Use the RMV app for real-time information and ticket purchases for public transportation.
Consider purchasing a Frankfurt Card for discounted entry to museums and attractions, as well as unlimited public transportation.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local hotspots.
Try local specialties, such as apple wine (Apfelwein) and Frankfurter Grüne Soße, at traditional taverns and restaurants.
Visit the city's Christmas markets and festivals for a unique and festive experience.