How to Plan Your Cologne Day Trip from Frankfurt

If you’re looking for a day trip from Frankfurt filled with history, architecture, and stunning views, look no further than Cologne. This full-day guided tour takes you through the best that Cologne has to offer, from the bustling Roncalliplatz to the historic Alter Markt square, culminating in a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site and most-visited site in Germany, the Cologne Cathedral. Here’s how you can plan your perfect day trip to Cologne from Frankfurt.

Step 1: Book Your Trip

The first step in planning your day trip to Cologne from Frankfurt is to book your trip. You can do this easily online through Viator, the well-known touring company that offers a wide variety of experiences all around the world. Once you’ve booked your tour, you’ll receive confirmation of your reservation, along with any necessary details you may need for your trip.

Step 2: Check the Itinerary

Before you set off on your journey, it’s important to check the itinerary to know what to expect from the day. Your full-day tour starts bright and early, departing from Frankfurt in the morning and heading north towards Cologne. Once you arrive in Cologne, you will start with a double-decker bus sightseeing tour, taking you through the city’s main sights including the Great St. Martin Church, Cologne City Hall, and much more.

After the bus tour, you will have time to explore Cologne independently and visit the Cologne Cathedral, one of Europe’s most remarkable Gothic buildings. You can also take a stroll through Cologne’s historic old town, see the River Rhine, and visit Cologne’s Town Hall. Finally, on the return trip to Frankfurt, you will discover the medieval old town of Limburg.

Step 3: What’s Included in the Tour

The Cologne Day Trip from Frankfurt includes so much in just one day. Firstly, the tour provides you with a professional guide who will accompany your group throughout the journey. This guide will offer commentary on the history of Cologne and its architecture while showing you the city’s many sights.

The tour also includes transportation, eliminating the stress of navigating your way around an unfamiliar city. The double-decker sightseeing bus tour of Cologne is also included in the trip, adding more value to the experience. The admission fees for the Cologne Cathedral’s Treasure Chamber of and Tower Climb are also included in the tour.

Step 4: What to Bring

To make the most out of your day trip to Cologne, it’s important to pack the right essentials. Firstly, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will walk a lot throughout the day. You will also need to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun may be strong during the summer months.

Make sure to bring a camera or smartphone with enough battery to capture all the amazing views you will encounter throughout the day. Lastly, bring a small bag to carry your essentials, snacks, and drinks, as you may become thirsty during the day.

Step 5: How to Make the Most Out of Your Day Trip

To make the most of your day trip to Cologne from Frankfurt, here are a couple of tips:

– Arrive at the meeting point in Frankfurt 15 minutes before the departure time to ensure a smooth journey.
– Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions and commentary during the tour, as this will ensure you don’t miss any of the important details.
– To make the most of your time during the independent part of the trip, focus on the key elements that interest you most, like taking the time to climb the tower of the Cologne Cathedral.
– Finally, remember that the Cologne day trip from Frankfurt is a long day, so make sure to bring snacks, water, and comfortable shoes.

Conclusion

Planning a day trip to Cologne from Frankfurt is easy with Viator’s Cologne Day Trip. It includes a professional guide, transportation, admission fees, and a double-decker bus tour of Cologne’s main sights. Just book your trip, pack a few essentials, and follow our tips to make the most of your journey. Book the tour here to create unforgettable memories from your time in Frankfurt.

The Ultimate Guide to Frankfurt: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frankfurt, also known as Frankfurt am Main, is a vibrant, bustling city located in central Germany. It is home to the European Central Bank, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, and one of the busiest airports in Europe. The city has a rich cultural heritage, having been the birthplace of Goethe and the site of numerous historical events. If you are planning a trip to Frankfurt, here are some frequently asked questions answered to help you make the most of your visit.

1. What is the best time to visit Frankfurt?

Frankfurt is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you are interested in outdoor activities or exploring the city’s parks and gardens, then visiting in the spring or summer months is ideal. April to May and August to September are popular months for visiting Frankfurt. However, if you are looking for the city’s famous Christmas markets, then visiting during December is your best bet.

2. How do I get to Frankfurt?

Frankfurt is well-connected by air, rail, and road. You can fly into Frankfurt International Airport, which is located approximately 12 kilometers from the city center. The airport serves many international and domestic destinations. Alternatively, you can travel to Frankfurt by train from other major cities in Europe or drive in via the autobahn.

3. What are the top attractions in Frankfurt?

Frankfurt is a city rich in history and culture, and there is no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some must-visit attractions in Frankfurt:

Frankfurt Old Town:

Also known as Altstadt, this is the historic center of the city and features several well-preserved buildings that date back to the medieval era.

Museumsufer:

A picturesque promenade located on the southern bank of the River Main that is home to numerous museums and art galleries.

Römerberg:

This is the city’s main square and is surrounded by several historic buildings, including the famous Römer City Hall.

Frankfurt Cathedral:

Located in the heart of the city, this is one of the most important landmarks of Frankfurt.

Main Tower:

This is Frankfurt’s tallest building and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.

Senckenberg Natural History Museum:

One of the largest natural history museums in Europe and home to extensive collections of fossils, minerals, and animal specimens.

4. What is the local cuisine of Frankfurt?

Frankfurt has a rich culinary tradition that features hearty, filling dishes that reflect its location in central Germany. Some of the local specialties include:

Frankfurter Würstchen:

This is a type of pork sausage that is a popular street food in Frankfurt.

Green Sauce:

A cold sauce made with sour cream, herbs, and spices that is typically served with boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs.

Frankfurter Rippchen:

This is a type of cured pork that is boiled and served with sauerkraut and potatoes.

Apfelwein:

A type of hard cider that is a traditional beverage in Frankfurt and the surrounding area.

5. Is Frankfurt a safe city for tourists?

Frankfurt is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but as with any major city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid deserted areas. Keep your valuables close to you and avoid flashing them in public. Also, be wary of pickpockets in busy tourist areas.

6. Where can I go shopping in Frankfurt?

Frankfurt is a great destination for shopping, with a wide range of shopping options to suit all budgets. Some of the best places to shop include:

Zeil:

This is Frankfurt’s main shopping street and is home to numerous high-street brands.

Frankfurt Christmas Market:

One of the largest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany, with numerous stalls selling gifts, food, and drinks.

Skyline Plaza:

A modern shopping center located near the Frankfurt Trade Fair that features numerous shops, restaurants, and a cinema.

Märkte am Hof:

A weekly farmer’s market that takes place on Saturdays and is a great place to pick up fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.

7. How do I get around Frankfurt?

Frankfurt has an extensive public transport network that includes buses, trams, and trains. The best way to get around the city is by using the U-Bahn or S-Bahn train systems. A single ticket costs €2.90, and day passes are also available. Taxis are also widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.

8. What are the best day trips from Frankfurt?

If you have some extra time in Frankfurt, there are several great day trip options to explore nearby cities and towns. Some of the best day trips from Frankfurt include:

Wiesbaden:

This is a beautiful spa town located just 30 minutes from Frankfurt and is a great destination for a relaxing day trip.

Heidelberg:

This picturesque town is home to one of the most beautiful castles in Germany and is a popular day trip destination from Frankfurt.

Bad Homburg:

This spa town is located just 20 minutes from Frankfurt and is known for its mineral springs and beautiful parks.

Rüdesheim:

This charming wine town is located on the banks of the River Rhine and is a great destination for wine lovers.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber:

This beautiful medieval town is located approximately 2.5 hours from Frankfurt and is a popular destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Frankfurt is a beautiful and vibrant city that has something to offer for everyone. From historic attractions to modern shopping centers, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Frankfurt. With this guide to frequently asked questions, you can plan your trip with ease and ensure that you have a fantastic time in Frankfurt.