Cologne, Germany with Kids

We spent 48 hours in the enchanting city of Cologne, Germany, where ancient history meets modern charm. Our time there was a captivating adventure through the winding streets, where the stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality make it the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation. From exploring magnificent cathedrals to savoring delectable cuisine, Cologne has something for every member of the family.

We went on an A-Rosa European River Cruise which started and ended in Cologne, so this was the perfect place to spend a few days and explore.

I have compiled a list of the three A’s: Accommodations, Adventures, and Appetite!  If you have any questions about Cologne or our trip please send me an email!

Accommodations

Just a a two-minute walk from Central Station and Cologne Cathedral, Cologne Hilton Hotel is centrally located and THE place to stay when visiting the city. With a sauna, fitness area, and connecting rooms, Cologne Hilton has it all. The Hilton’s convenient location allowed us to explore the city’s vibrant streets, all within walking distance

We got there early in the morning, so we dropped off our bags and explored the city for a few hours. When we returned we got our room keys and headed upstairs! We had two connecting rooms, and they were incredibly spacious. One room had two queen beds, while the other had a king. Both rooms were very modern and impeccably clean.

Each morning began with a sumptuous breakfast buffet, featuring a huge selection of local and international cuisine, which fueled our adventures. In particular, I enjoyed the omelet station, fresh pastries, and mimosa bar! Our stay at the Hilton Cologne was a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and hospitality, leaving us with cherished memories and comfort while traveling abroad.

Adventures

Hohenzollern Bridge – Be sure to pack a lock with you on your trip to Cologne, and stop at Hohenzollern Bridge. The iconic rail and pedestrian bridge over the Rhine is known for its thousands of padlocks symbolizing love. My children spend over an hour here, not only finding the perfect spot for their own lock, but looking at all the others as well. It is a beautiful place to spend some time and view the city and river.

Cologne Cathedral – There are some things in life that simply leave you jaw-dropped no many how many times you pass by. The Cologne Cathedral had that effect on my family. Since our hotel was very close, we passed by multiple times a day. Each time left us simply stunned. Visiting the Cologne Cathedral was an awe-inspiring experience. The cathedral’s towering Gothic spires showcase pure architectural beauty. Once you step inside and see the vastness, beautiful art, and stain glass – you feel humbled and can’t help but sit and take it all in. Our whole family admired this cathedral, and I can easily say this is a must-visit in Cologne. Be sure to stroll by at night also, the lights reflecting it really adds something extra.

Chocolate Express – Leaving from the Cologne Cathedral is the Chocolate Express – a small green train that takes you on a tour of the city. We hopped aboard the first train of the day at 9:45, and had the whole train to ourselves. This was a relaxing way to see some of the city. They offer round trip tickets, or tickets that also go to the zoo. We opted for the tickets to stop at the Lindt Chocolate Museum, because that was our next stop!

Lindt Chocolate Museum (The Schokoladenmuseum Köln) – On our three weeks in Europe, we visited three chocolate museums. This one was without a doubt the most detailed and informative, and truly a museum of chocolate. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was enveloped in the sweet smell of cocoa. The museum’s interactive exhibits took our family on a journey through the fascinating world of chocolate, from the cacao bean’s origin to the chocolate-making process. My children were able to virtually sort cacao beans, and approve them for testing (they did this a few times). You are then led into a room where you can watch skilled chocolatiers at work, and also press a button for the assembly line machine to pass you your very own sample. Then there is the chocolate fountain where you can sample wafers dipped in fresh chocolate, drool. I would highly recommend getting to the museum at opening, when we left there was a huge line to get in!

Fish Market Square Colorful Houses – You see them in all the photographs of Cologne, the colorful houses at Fish Market Square. The colorful and picturesque narrow steep-gabled houses are beautiful and charming. Unfortunately, when we were there a couple of them were under renovation – it was still a very cute part of the city to see though!

Shop on Schildergasse Street – Schildergasse is Cologne’s most visited shopping street and the busiest in Europe. Be warned, this street is BUSY! That being said, it is worth walking at least once, you can find some big box stores as well as local shops offering unique items.

Appetite

Brauhaus FRÜH am Dom – You can’t go to Germany without visiting a Brauhaus! FRÜH is an old-world restaurant offering homestyle dishes of sausage & potatoes, plus schnitzel. Oh the schnitzel… this is now one of my daughter’s favorite foods! Be sure to order one (or three!) Kölsch beers, this style of beer originating in Cologne and they are very proud of it. It is super refreshing and pairs perfectly with the cuisine. I highly recommend the goulash and schnitzel with mushrooms. SO GOOD!

Max Stark – I brought our family here because of their great reviews, only to see it was full and we needed a reservation (womp womp…). BUT they offered us take-away as an option so we took it! You will need to pay for to-go boxes at the restaurant or go across the street and buy them. We opted for the store across the street where we paid about $6 for four boxes. The food was exceptional, and well worth the walk and wait. Do yourself a favor and make a reservation!

Gaffel am Dom – Located next to Cologne Cathedral is Gaffel am Dom – a traditional brewhouse offering regional dishes. Service is organized, the food is delicious, and beer is crisp and cold! The portions are generous, and I mean it! I had an appetizer as my full meal… seriously. I highly recommend the meatball appetizer and the kid’s schnitzel (like I said, my daughter’s new favorite food). The waitstaff is kind and jovial, our family enjoyed our afternoon lunch here!

Istanbul Restaurant – We walked past this restaurant every day from our hotel into the city, and when you see the fresh meat being shaved along with the delicious smells – we just had to stop in. The food did not disappoint – it was fantastic and the portions were HUGE! If you are looking for something quick and tasty, this is the spot for you!

Until next time…