I have some business in Bonn in February and will have Friday afternoon (2/12) and all day Saturday and Sunday free. I fly out of CGN very early Monday morning. Can anyone suggest an itinerary? I wouldn't even mind hiring a private guide for a day if it would help covering more ground more efficiently. I will need to stay in a hotel in Bonn (suggestions?). Fred?
Posted by
89 posts
In Bonn: : Haus der Geschichte (House of the History) Museum.
Some people recommend Beethoven-Haus, but I haven't been there.
In Cologne: cathedral, Cologne’s Old Town, Hohenzollern Bridge with love padlocks among others.
Posted by
OP
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
20252 posts
Daniel, thank you. Its a start. Is there anything within about an hour of Bonn/Cologne worth visiting?
Posted by
California USA
4103 posts
Aachen, with its interesting Romanesque church and bust of Charlemagne, is 1h20 by train (assuming you won't have a rental car). Cochem on the Mosel and Bacharach on the Rhine are also about 1h20 by train.
Posted by
89 posts
@ James, there is Düsseldorf nearby. We went there from Cologne for few hours trip. There are some interesting buildings like Neuer Zollhof and telecommunications tower you can go inside, go to the top by elavator and enjoy the sights of the city. We were happy to make such addition to our trip, but the city itself was a bit disappointing.
Two and a half day for Cologne and Bonn is not too much time if you plan to get to know these cities closer. You might also consider going along the Rhine by boat.
As for Bonn and Cologne (and Düsseldorf), there are small but informative books in English from series "3 Day in" giving you idea for city walks and other activities in each particular city. You can buy them in some of the bookshops, newsagents or tourist infos in these cities.
I hope this helps. Have a good and safe time.
Posted by
OP
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
20252 posts
Daniel. Thanks. Its a business trip but I have the time and thought I would be productive with it. Your help is appreciated.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7892 posts
James, maybe you know this already, but Cologne is notable for how walkable the main attractions are, not only from each other but from the HBF. Although it could be cold and clammy in February, there are also nice outdoor walks across some bridges, and back across a second bridge. You could easily spend three days in Cologne by itself if you like museums. Cologne has varied and high-quality museums.
You have to consider whether you want to (pay) for the Cathedral Treasury, and spend even more time there. I vote yes, but it's a matter of taste. You need a short subway ride for the Ethnological and Medieval Art museums. As for the chocolate and cologne museums, forget 'em! But visit a Kolsch beerhall for some .2 liter glasses, from wooden barrels.