rhine river cruise cologne and/or dusseldorf

The two cities are different enough to explore both, and both have enough to explore for 1-2 full days depending on interests. For beer lovers both cities are a must because so close they are on a map, so different is their favorite beer (Kölsch versus Altbier).

I recommend to have a look into both cities' tourist pages and to decide on this base.

What day? Our cruise stopped in Cologne on a Monday and all the museums were closed. After the cathedral there wasn't much to see and so we wandered aimlessly for a bit and headed back to the ship.

I travel to both cities quite frequently. The cathedral in Cologne is nice, but I firmly believe that Dusseldorf is one of the most under rated cities in Europe. There isn't a ton to do in the way of history, but if you want to experience world class shopping and dining, Dusseldorf is the place to be. Also, the Alt Stadt has some of the best nightlife and people watching that you will find any where. I would opt for the option to start the day by checking out the cathedral in Cologne, and then end the day with food and drinks in Dusseldorf.

Also, the Alt Stadt has some of the best nightlife and people watching that you will find any where

I stayed in Dusseldrof 2 nights w/ a day trip to Cologne. I can concur thay Dusseldorf's ald stadt had a real jumping nightlife. Proabably the most clubby vibe at night of all the towns I visited.

I find Düsseldorf not at all attractive, but I know opinions differ. The Japanese food scene in Düsseldorf makes it an attractive option, but I think I would pick Köln every time. Neither has a great old town per se--just small remnants. If you aren't there on a Monday, visit St. Ursula Bone Chapel in Köln.

1/2 day in Df. I think enough time to walk in the Altstadt (Oldtown) for shopping, sightseeing… Maybe time to walk along the Rheinufer (Riverway) to the Fernmeldeturm with a beautiful View and to the Medienhafen. If you like to taste good Düsseldorfer Food and Beer I would decide for the Restaurant „Füchschen“/Oldtown. I love it.

1/2 day in Cologne. I think enough time for a little bit sightseeing the Cologne Dom. If you like to taste good Cologne Food and Beer I would decide for „Brauhaus zur Malzmühle“. My favorite in Cologne.

Brauhaus zur Malzmühle“. My favorite in Cologne.

I'd second that. It's a 5 minute walk from the Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Our 1/2-ish day trip to Cologne was the cathedral, some shopping in that area, chocolate museum, lunch at Malzmuhle, and a couple of kolsches in the plaza outside Peters Brauhaus. 5-6 hours in Cologne.