Cologne city breaks

When to go to Cologne

Cologne weekend breaks are popular throughout the year. Find out what the weather might be up to during your trip...

Warm in summer and cold in winter, Cologne enjoys a mild climate similar to London’s. Spring and autumn are cool but pleasant for sightseeing, and these seasons experience fewer tourists than the summer months.

December is another popular time to visit Cologne. The city’s fantastically festive Christmas markets lure thousands of visitors, and city breaks should be booked as far in advance as possible if you plan to be in Cologne as Christmas approaches.

What to do in Cologne

The annual calendar of events in Cologne is diverse and exciting and there’s much more to see than the following three highlights…

Carnival; February: The annual carnival is one of the biggest events in the calendar, when there’s a week-long programme of events. Expect thousands of revellers in fancy dress, parades, parties, and opportunities to take part in the tradition of “Frühschoppen” – meeting at a pub for a drink… in the morning.

Long Night of the Cologne Museums; November: Stock up on caffeine and get ready to stay up all night to tour the city’s museums. For one evening only – and for the price of one ticket – you can visit participating museums and view works, hear live music and attend one of the many special events staged around the city.

Christmas markets; November-December: If you‘re lucky enough to fly in during the festive period, be sure to check out the main market by the cathedral, as well as the Market of Fairy Tales in Rudolfplatz, the Old Market in Alter Markt and the Angel’s market, which is the oldest festive market in Cologne.

Families, couples and groups all love Cologne. It’s got a little something for everybody at any time of the year...

Families: Cologne's Dom is the giant among cathedrals. Race your kids up the 509 spiral steps to the lookout for a gargoyle's-eye view over the city's rooftops and snaking Rhine.

Relaxing: Hang out with locals at a wood-beamed beer hall for a refreshing Kölsch pale ale served in a 200ml Stange glass. Peckish? Snack on potato pancakes and braised pickled beef.

Romance: It's all about the Rhine in Cologne. See the city from a riverboat as you cruise gently past the cathedral, church turrets and candy-coloured houses of the Old Town.