Exploring the Beautiful Surroundings of Cologne

Cologne (Köln in German) is filled with remarkable German attractions. After marveling at the massive cathedral, indulging in treats at the chocolate museum, and strolling along the scenic Rhine Promenade, you might ponder what other experiences await you in this enchanting region.

The state of North Rhine-Westphalia and nearby Hesse boast numerous cultural treasures just a short drive or train ride from Cologne. Alternatively, you can base yourself in Frankfurt, Bonn, or any of the nearby cities to enjoy these lesser-known German destinations. Here are the best towns to visit on a day trip from Cologne.

Schloss Drachenburg

Address:

Drachenfelsstraße 118, 53639 Königswinter, Germany

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Phone: +49 2223 901970

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A destination since the days of Lord Byron, Drachenburg Castle captivates visitors with its scenic location on Drachenfels in the Seven Hills of Siebengebirge, overlooking the city of Bonn. Known as Schloss Drachenburg (meaning “Dragon’s Rock”), this relatively modern castle dates back to 1882.

The castle rises 1,053 feet (321 meters) above the Rhine, offering visitors a chance to glimpse the ornate furnishings that reflect the vision of castle life in the 1800s.

A historic funicular—the oldest rack railway in Germany—conveys guests directly to the castle or up to the ancient ruins of an older fortress.

Transportation: 1.5 hours by train – Regular departures on regional trains; 40 minutes by car via the A-59 south; Regular stops during Rhine River cruises.

Frankfurt

Address:

Römerberg, 60311 Frankfurt am Main-Innenstadt I, Germany

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More than just an entry point to Germany with its busy international airport, Frankfurt offers much worth discovering.

Notably, its skyline showcases modern skyscrapers towering above the Main River, providing a stark contrast to the fairy-tale villages scattered throughout Germany.

Frankfurt boasts unique attractions such as its reconstructed Römerberg square and local culinary delights like grie sos (herb-laden green sauce) and local cider known as ebbelwoi (apple wine).

Transportation: 1 hour by train—departures are hourly via ICE or regional trains; 2 hours by car along the A-3, which connects Frankfurt to Cologne.

Ruedesheim am Rhein

Address:

65385 Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany

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The area surrounding Ruedesheim am Rhein is renowned as German wine country. The Rhine Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Romans have been cultivating grapes for over two millennia. The German tradition of winemaking has flourished ever since.

Visit during peak season (from April through October) to witness the town bustling with tourists and tasting rooms at every turn.

Transportation: Just over 2 hours by train—with hourly departures in the morning and return trains in the evening; Approximately two hours by car using the A-3 south.

Marburg

Address:

35 Marburg, Germany

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Marburg is a pristine medieval hill town, reminiscent of the popular Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This enchanting destination features narrow cobbled streets and half-timbered houses that many visitors dream of experiencing in Germany. Jacob Grimm famously noted, “I believe there are more steps in the streets than in the houses.”

A trek up to the ancient castle and its Franconian watchtower is rewarding, where one can enjoy a classic German meal in a traditional Gasthaus.

Transportation: Two and a half hours by train—multiple daily departures; Two hours by car via the A-4 & A-45 east.

Koblenz

Address:

Felsenweg, 56077 Koblenz, Germany

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Phone: +49 261 66754000

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This dramatic city is located at Deutsches Eck (German Corner), where the Rhine River meets the Moselle. This picturesque location boasts a monument symbolizing German unity, adorned with a large national flag along with flags representing its 16 länder (states).

Koblenz’s rich history predates the Germans; founded by the Romans in 9 BC, visitors can explore its ancient past at landmarks such as the 13th-century Alte Burg (castle) or visit the impressive Festung Ehrenbreitstein fortress.

Transportation: Between 55 minutes to an hour and a half depending on whether you take a regional or ICE train—regular departures occur hourly; 1 hour by car via the A-3 southeast.

Mainz

Address:

Liebfrauenpl. 5, 55116 Mainz, Germany

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Phone: +49 6131 122644

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Mainz boasts over two millennia of history, notably as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, famed for his revolutionary printing press. The Gutenberg Museum celebrates this remarkable inventor.

Wander through the magnificent Dom (cathedral), whose construction began in 975. This architectural marvel features bronze doors that are over 1,000 years old, leading into stunning choirs, a crypt, and a tomb. To experience local life, visit the bustling pedestrian-friendly Markt (farmers’ market) held in the city center on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Transportation: 1.5 hours by train with hourly departures on ICE or regional trains; approximately 2 hours by car via the A-3 southeast.

Bonn

Address:

53 Bonn, Germany

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Bonn, the closest city to Cologne, presents an excellent opportunity for a day trip, offering a glimpse into a charming smaller German city.

Often overlooked, this historical city is recognized as the birthplace of composer Ludwig van Beethoven and was the former capital of West Germany. Today, Bonn is characterized by a laid-back atmosphere enriched by bustling cafes and lively beer gardens in summer, as well as traditional weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) in winter.

Transportation: 25 to 30 minutes by train—frequent departures by ICE or regional trains; just over 30 minutes by car on the A-5553 south.

Bad Homburg

Address:

61 Bad Homburg, Germany

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This historic spa town, once frequented by royalty, is now accessible to everyone. It is renowned as one of Germany’s foremost spa parks.

Take a leisurely stroll through Kurpark, featuring hot springs, and experience the rejuvenating spas and kurhaus after exploring the 14th-century weisser turm. This castle offers guided tours showcasing how this former summer residence appeared during the time of Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Transportation: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by train—regular departures each morning; Two hours by car using the A-3 southeast.

Michelstadt

Address:

64720 Michelstadt, Germany

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Situated deep within the forest, Michelstadt, located in the Odenwald region, captures the hearts of nature lovers.

Don’t forget to photograph the rathaus (town hall); it is among Germany’s most photographed buildings, featuring a fountain that has been pleasantly bubbling since 1575.

Moreover, venture beyond the city limits for scenic hiking trails scattered with historical landmarks. The 13th-century Schloss Fürstenau remains a private residence today (imagine living in a castle!), but its exterior is accessible to the public and houses a small museum.

Transportation: Approximately 3.5 hours by train, with several departures throughout the day; 2 hours and 45 minutes by car using the A-3 southeast. For a more picturesque drive, consider taking the B-47, known as Nibelungenstraße, between Worms and Wertheim.

Dusseldorf

Address:

Jacobistraße 2, 40211 Düsseldorf, Germany

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Phone: +49 211 8996262

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Bustling Dusseldorf, often a rival to Cologne, may easily be overlooked amidst the other Rhine-Westphalia cities. However, it offers unique attractions deserving of your attention.

Stroll along the tree-lined königsallee (also known as kö) where you can find luxurious shops and quaint cafes, enticing visitors with delightful kaffee und kuchen (coffee and cake). The Goethe Museum showcases the life of the eminent writer, while the marktplatz (central square) features the picturesque rathaus and an equestrian statue of elector Johann Wilhelm II. This square serves as the heart of altstadt (old town), where one can wander along cobbled streets and discover classic taverns offering the city’s distinctive Alt Bier.

Transportation: Under an hour by train—departures every hour; approximately 1 hour by car using the A-57 south.

Wiesbaden

Address:

Wiesbaden, Germany

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Wiesbaden, an elegant city, has historically attracted the elite, from affluent Romans to today’s cultural influencers. The historic neoclassical Kurhaus now provides entertainment, featuring a casino, while the picturesque Kurpark integrates scenic walks amidst English garden designs. Visitors will also encounter the striking red brick Marktkirche (church), a city palace, and charming streets that provide a delightful ambiance.

Transportation: Approximately 2 hours by train, with hourly departures from ICE or regional trains; nearly two hours by car on the A-3 southeast.