Cologne/Rhineland
Cologne the city in which ancient history meets vibrant modern life! Explore the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cologne Cathedral, wander through charming neighbourhoods filled with cafes and boutiques, and discover a rich tapestry of art and culture in world-class museums. Whether you’re strolling along the picturesque Rhine River or enjoying the lively atmosphere of local markets, Cologne offers something for everyone.
And don’t forget the nearby attractions! From enchanting day trips to scenic towns like Koblenz to thrilling adventures at nearby theme parks, Cologne is the perfect base for your next unforgettable journey. Embrace the spirit of this dynamic city and create lasting memories!
Sample 5 Day / 4 Night Itinerary
Day 1
- Flight from Ireland to Cologne – see below for flight schedules serving Berlin.
- The students will be transferred to the RheinEnergie Stadion where they will take a guided tour of the stadium, and get to see where Koln FC plays.
- After lunch, the students will take part in an e-scavenger hunt, where they get a chance to explore the city, while working together with their classmates.
- Transfer to accommodation for check-in and an evening meal.
- After dinner, test your patience with a visit to the Escape Rooms.
- Return to accommodation and overnight.
Day 2
- After a restful night, enjoy breakfast before embarking on a short transfer to Koblenz. Upon arrival, your first stop is the Deutsches Eck, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers converge, offering breathtaking views and a chance to learn about the region’s history. Next, take a scenic cable car ride up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, where panoramic vistas await.
- After exploring the fortress, enjoy lunch before taking the cable car back down. To top off your visit, embark on a leisurely river cruise, soaking in the stunning landscapes along the Rhine. With some free time to explore Koblenz at your leisure, you can visit local shops or simply enjoy the atmosphere. Return to your hotel for dinner, followed by an evening at leisure to relax or explore more of Cologne.
Day 3
- Begin your day with a visit to the Cologne Zoo, home to a diverse range of animal species and beautifully landscaped exhibits. After an exciting morning, enjoy lunch at the zoo, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings while recharging for the afternoon.
- Next, hop on a bike for a guided cycling tour of the area, taking in the sights and sounds of Cologne from a unique perspective. Follow this up with another river cruise, where you can relax and appreciate the scenic views along the Rhine. Your final stop for the day is the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Gothic architecture. After an enriching day, return to your hotel for dinner and an evening of relaxation, before sleeping.
Day 4
- Breakfast in accommodation.
- Transfer to Phantasialand in the morning, you’ll have the entire day to explore thrilling rides, captivating shows, and immersive themed areas. Don’t forget to grab lunch at one of the park’s many eateries, offering a variety of delicious options to suit every taste.
- After a day of adventure and fun, return to your hotel for dinner. Enjoy the evening at leisure, reflecting on the exhilarating experiences of the day and gearing up for your final day in Cologne.
Day 5
- On your last morning, check out of the hotel and make your way to the Lindt Chocolate Museum, where you can indulge your sweet tooth while learning about the history of chocolate. After a delightful visit, enjoy lunch nearby, savoring the local cuisine one last time.
- With some free time for souvenir shopping, you can pick up unique mementos to remember your trip by. As your adventure comes to an end, transfer to Cologne Bonn Airport for your flight back to Dublin. With cherished memories and new experiences, you’ll leave Cologne with a heart full of adventure!
Building Your Itinerary - Cornerstones
Cornerstones are the attractions that should form the core of any itinerary – the “do not miss” items!
For us there are 4 such cornerstones to a Cologne and Rhineland itinerary:
Cologne Cathedral: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural masterpiece, famous for its stunning Gothic design and impressive stained glass windows, not to be missed on a trip to Cologne.
Cologne Chocolate Museum: Dive into the sweet world of chocolate, where you can learn about its history, see chocolate-making in action, and enjoy tastings.
Koblenz: Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks like the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, and the charming old town filled with vibrant cafes and shops.
Phantasialand: Amusement park that combines thrilling rides, immersive themed areas, and spectacular shows, making it a perfect destination for students on their trip.
Itinerary - Day Trips
Day trip to Koblenz, starting at the Deutsches Eck where the Rhine and Moselle meet. Stroll through the charming old town, then take a cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for stunning views. Finish by relaxing by the riverside, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Day trip to Phantasialand offers thrilling rides and immersive themed areas for all ages. Enjoy spectacular shows and diverse dining options, all set in a vibrant atmosphere that makes for unforgettable memories.
Day trip to Rüdesheim, explore the charming Drosselgasse, visit the Niederwald Monument for stunning views, and enjoy a cable car ride.
Day trip to Düsseldorf, Start in the Old Town (Altstadt) where you can explore cute shops. Check out the art at the Kunstsammlung, then enjoy a walk along the Rhine Promenade for great views. Don’t forget to visit the Rheinturm for a high-up look at the city! Finally, explore the cool MedienHafen area before heading back to Cologne.
Itinerary Fillers and Evening Activities
Filling time and gaps in an itinerary won’t be a problem in Cologne – trying to cut out attractions will be the challenge!
Hohenzollern Bridge, known for its love locks, this iconic bridge offers beautiful views of the Rhine River and the cathedral.
e-Scavenger Hunt: Invites students to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture while solving clues and completing fun challenges.
Cologne Zoo: One of Germany’s oldest zoos, features a diverse array of animals and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it a itinerary filler.
KölnTriangle Observation Deck: Visit this skyscraper for a panoramic view of the city and its famous cathedral.
River cruise on the Rhine: Spend an evening on a boat cruising down the Rhine.
Accommodation Options
Our preferred accommodation is the Meininger Hotel, Köln West.
We offer the possibility of staying in 2/3-star hotels, subject to price change and availability.
Breakfast and dinners are provided, unless specified in the itinerary.
Connections from Ireland
Flight routes change all the time, but currently the options include:
- Dublin to Cologne, with Ryanair.
- Knock to Cologne, with Ryanair.
