Keulen

Cologne (or Köln, as the locals call it) is a fantastic city, especially during the Christmas season. With its charming atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and vibrant shopping scene, you’re in for a treat! Let’s dive into a cozy 2-day itinerary that fits your preferences and budget.

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Cologne

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Rico: Start your day with a hearty vegetarian breakfast at this cozy café. They offer delicious options like avocado toast and fresh pastries. Expect to spend around €10-15 per person.

• Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): After breakfast, head to the iconic Cologne Cathedral. It’s free to enter, and you can marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the city (entrance is about €5).

Midday:

• Lunch at The Vegan Eagle: This spot is perfect for a delicious vegetarian lunch. Try their vegan burgers or salads, and you’ll be well-fed for around €10-15 per person.

• Shopping in the Old Town: After lunch, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town (Altstadt). You’ll find vintage shops and boutiques, especially around Breite Straße and the surrounding areas. Don’t forget to check out the Christmas markets that pop up during this season!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Christmas Markets: Cologne is famous for its Christmas markets! Spend your afternoon exploring the market at the Cathedral, where you can sip on some warm Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate (around €5) and enjoy some vegetarian snacks like roasted chestnuts or potato pancakes.

Evening:

• Dinner at Hummus & Friends: For dinner, enjoy a delightful meal at this vegetarian-friendly restaurant. Their hummus platters and falafel are a hit! Expect to spend around €15-20 per person.

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Rhine River. The views of the city lights reflecting on the water are simply magical, especially during the festive season.

Day 2: Culture and More Shopping

Morning:

• Breakfast at Bäckerei Schmitz: Grab a quick breakfast at this local bakery. They have a variety of pastries and bread, perfect for a light start. Budget around €5-10 per person.

• Museum Ludwig: After breakfast, visit the Museum Ludwig, which houses an impressive collection of modern art. The entrance fee is about €12, but it’s worth it for art lovers!

Midday:

• Lunch at Café Blum: This historic café offers a lovely vegetarian lunch menu. Enjoy a light meal and maybe a slice of their famous cake for around €15-20 per person.

• Vintage Shopping in Ehrenfeld: Head to the Ehrenfeld district, known for its vintage shops and unique boutiques. You can find some hidden gems here, and it’s a great area to explore.

Afternoon:

• More Christmas Markets: Make your way to the Alter Markt and Heumarkt, where you can find more Christmas stalls. Enjoy some festive treats and shop for handmade gifts and decorations.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Green Garden: For your final dinner in Cologne, enjoy a meal at this vegetarian restaurant. They offer a variety of dishes, and you can expect to spend around €15-20 per person.

• Wrap Up with a Nightcap: If you’re up for it, find a cozy bar nearby for a nightcap. A local beer or a warm drink will be the perfect way to end your Cologne adventure!

Budget Breakdown:

• Day 1:

  • Breakfast: €10-15
  • Cathedral: €5
  • Lunch: €10-15
  • Snacks at Christmas Market: €5
  • Dinner: €15-20
  • Total: €45-60

• Day 2:

  • Breakfast: €5-10
  • Museum: €12
  • Lunch: €15-20
  • Snacks at Christmas Market: €5
  • Dinner: €15-20
  • Total: €52-77

With this itinerary, you’ll have a delightful time exploring Cologne, indulging in vegetarian delights, and soaking up the festive spirit. Enjoy your trip! 🎄✨