Explore Cologne with AESU!
As one of the oldest cities in Germany, Cologne is packed with sights, history, and delicious chocolates. It might be the fourth most populated city in the country, but visitors can experience its culture and charm in just 24 hours. Discover how to spend the day in Cologne!
Photograph the FischMarkt
A quirky collection of slender, pastel buildings, the FischMarkt is a must for photographers. Don’t be fooled by their colorful exterior. These buildings survived WW2 bombings that left three-quarters of the city completely destroyed. Today, this vibrant corner of old town serves as a reminder of yesteryear in addition to offering an abundance of beautiful outdoor cafes just walking distance from the Rhine.
Visit the Cologne Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral is the most visited landmark in all of Germany, and it’s now an official UNESCO site. During the war, the Cathedral was thought to be so beautiful that it was left unscathed by enemy troops. The Roman Catholic church was built in 1248, left unflushed in 1473, and finally completed in 1880. It has the second-tallest spires in Northern Europe and is home to the famous gilded shrine of The Three Wise Men.
Peruse the Many Museums
The Ludwig Museum is home to many iconic pieces of Pop Art and Expressionist era art. Spend time amongst the works of Picasso, Warhol, Lichtenstein, and Heckel before heading off to the next part of the adventure. Afterward, satisfy your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum! Showcasing the city’s 5,000-year long culture of chocolate, the Chocolate Museum is one the most popular attractions in the city. Visitors have the chance to dip a biscuit into the ten-foot fountain of flowing chocolate at the end of the tour! Cologne is home to several more historic museums. Consider visiting them all, including the Romano-Germanic Museum and the Wallraf-Richartz Museum.
Take a Rhine River Cruise
Your legs might need a rest after a day of exploration! Sit back and enjoy a cruise down the Rhine River, and see the spectacular castles and palaces from the best vantage point. There are more than 40 castles and fortresses peppered throughout the Middle Rhine, each more beautiful than the next.
Try a Currywurst!
Currywurst with fries, Curry-ketchup, and mayo is a staple of Cologne! It sounds simple and maybe even a bit odd, but this German tradition originated in 1949 as a flavorful and affordable food option and eventually grew to become a local staple. You can take this street food on the go or stop and enjoy with a pint, but rest assured it has a place in the heart of this German city.
Explore Germany with AESU
AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal—designed just for people your own age. We are also able to design custom tours just for your group.
AESU offers several trips to Germany, including Cosmopolitan, Euro Spree, Explorer, Euro Focus, and our most popular tour, Great Escape. Explore Cologne, and see everything that the city has to offer!
If you have any questions or want help booking your next London adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640, or fill out the contact form found on our website!