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Curious about Cologne? Discover more about Cologne holidays
If you are thinking about a city break or even a family holiday in Germany, then Cologne has much to offer. Check out some of the holiday package deals listed here, or enter your preferred dates to find cheap flights to Cologne from the UK. We have last-minute deals and Cologne holidays to suit early birds. Either way, our guide to this intriguing city will help you to get the most out of your stay.
Tips for choosing hotels in Cologne
Part of the fun of staying in any modern city is choosing a hotel that will meet your requirements. Thankfully, the best hotels in Cologne are clustered in just one or two central districts, which means you can explore most of them on foot. Anywhere in the city's Altstadt or close to its impressive cathedral will be ideally located for a short city break. If you are staying for a week or more, then you can often find better value among hotels in Cologne outside of the busiest areas.
If you are travelling with family members and would prefer a quiet district to stay in, then Lindenthal is a good district to look into. The same goes for Deutz, which suits many families. If you're travelling for fun and nightlife, on the other hand, then the hotels in the Belgian Quarter might be more to your satisfaction.
Beyond location, consider room requirements. Families might want a suite or adjoining rooms. These can get booked up quicker than standard hotel rooms, so it is best to book hotels early if you want to reserve them. Last-minute hotel room deals tend to suit couples or families with older children, where close proximity to one another won't be such an issue.
Please also bear in mind that Cologne stages a number of trade fairs and business events every year. If your planned dates coincide with one, then hotel room prices are likely to be much higher. Consider this before committing to flights to Cologne and move your holiday, if possible, to avoid these peak periods.
In the run up to Christmas, Cologne is also busy with tourists. Hotels close to the city's famous Christmas markets tend to charge higher prices than average. Unless you are specifically coming to Cologne for its markets, avoid the whole of December, especially if you're looking for a cheaper deal.
Places to visit in Cologne during your trip
Assuming you have chosen Cologne as a holiday destination – and not to attend a trade fair – you'll want to see more than its exhibition centres. First-time visitors should definitely head to the so-called KölnTriangle. This impressive site yields panoramic views of the cityscape from its prominent observation deck.
Undoubtedly, the city's cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also likely to feature on most tourists' itineraries. From there, it is easy to access the majestic Rhine as it flows through the city northwards. River cruises on the Rhine are popular. These can last a few hours or longer. Some river cruises run the full length of the Rhine, passing through Cologne on the way to Bonn and Koblenz beyond it.
If you are interested in the many beer makers in Cologne, a trip to the beer halls in the Old Town is worth it. Why not book a Brauhaus tour and sample some of the local produce where it is made? If you are after a trendier bar with a more laid-back style, then the Belgian Quarter is likely to be more your thing.
Finally, Museum Ludwig is the place to head to if you want to experience some culture. This art museum has many fine pieces of modern artwork, including those by world-famous artists. There is also a top-rated orchestra based in the city, so checking out concert ticket prices is also a good idea for culture vultures.
Are family deals on offer for Cologne holidays?
Although visiting the main tourist sites will suit some families, those with younger children might prefer Phantasialand. This is a theme park located near Cologne, ideal for family holidays. The city's science museum, known as Odysseum, is also ideal for rainy days. It is full of interactive exhibits.
If you want a gentle activity that all the family can enjoy, try taking the cable car ride over the Rhine. Both Stadtwald and Volksgarten are city parks where little ones can let off steam and play in the open. For more energetic youngsters, a trip to Lentpark Ice Arena and Pool is a good idea. This venue rents out ice skates and offers access to a top-quality pool, which is ideal if your hotel doesn't have one.
Direct or indirect: Advice on booking flights to Cologne
Cheap flights to Cologne tend to be direct services. However, if you are looking for the best deals, especially last-minute ones from airlines, then indirect services may offer better value. Look for connections from Amsterdam, Brussels or Frankfurt. These are only worth it if you have time to spare, however, since there is likely to be waiting time between flights. For the best prices, be flexible with your departure airport and when you fly.
FAQs about Cologne holidays
Q: Which British airports fly to Cologne?
A: You can find flights to Cologne from three London airports: Stansted, Heathrow and Gatwick. Manchester, Birmingham International, Bristol and Edinburgh all provide direct services.
Q: What airport do you fly into for Cologne?
A: Cologne's main airport is officially called Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN). A one-way ticket by rail from the airport to the city centre is inexpensive – just a few euros – and takes about 15 minutes. Buses are even cheaper, but take around half an hour. Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) is not far away, and it takes about 40 minutes to get to Cologne from there by car or train.
Q: How far is Cologne city from the airport?
A: Cologne Bonn Airport is a little under 10 miles from the city centre. With such a short journey, you'll arrive at your Cologne hotel in minutes.
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