Trains from Berlin to Koeln

Experience the beauty of Germany and explore the cities of Berlin and Koeln by choosing the quickest train option. With a total journey lasting just over 6 hours, you won't miss a beat and will be able to explore many towns and cities along the way. Start the trip in Berlin and visit popular attractions such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe or the Berlin Wall. Don't forget to visit Alexanderplatz, which is a world-famous shopping square and is the largest public square in Germany. At the Berlin Hauptbahnhof, jump on the ICE Train and prepare to traverse the entire country, passing through Leipzig, Magdeburg, and Hannover on the way to Koeln. As you speed through the scenery, take in the quaint villages and natural beauty that are scattered throughout the countryside. Keep an eye out for the iconic Cologne Cathedral, the impressive Romanesque architecture of Heidelberg Palace, and the unique Charm of the Rhine Valley. Once you've arrived at Cologne's main station, you'll be surrounded by shopping malls, cafes, and great restaurants, where you'll be able to choose from some of the best local cuisine. As you finish your journey, remember to pick up some unique German souvenirs and trinkets. With the comfortable ICE Train, you'll be able to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Berlin is a city full of history and culture, and it has plenty of attractions to visit for the perfect vacation. From famous landmarks and monuments to trying a wide variety of food, it is a city meant to be experienced. Here’s a list of the seven must-visit historical and architectural sites in Berlin so you can plan an exciting itinerary for your trip. 

Brandenburg Gate: Built in 1791, this iconic landmark is the symbol of German unity. Visitors can find the Brandenburg Gate on Pariser Platz in central Berlin. It is free to visit, and the views of the city skyline at night are particularly stunning.

Reichstag Building: The Reichstag was completed in 1894 and houses Germany’s parliament. Visitors can take a tour of the building free of charge. The glass dome is a popular attraction, with its 360-degree views of Berlin.

East Side Gallery: This open-air gallery is located along the Spree River and features a mural painted in 1990 by 118 artists from around the world. Not only is it a spectacular sight in itself, but it’s also a memorial for the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Museumsinsel: This UNESCO World Heritage site is an island located in the Spree River and is home to five different museums: Pergamon Museum, Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Bode Museum and Alte Nationalgalerie. The Pergamon Museum has some of the world’s greatest ruins, and entrance fee depends on which museums visitors choose to attend.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe: This large memorial is made up of concrete stelae and spans across 4.7 acres in the center of Berlin. It is a powerful reminder of the millions of Jewish people who were murdered in the Holocaust.

Charlottenburg Palace: This rococo-style palace was built in the 17th century, and it is a popular attraction with tourists. Visitors can tour the palace and its extensive gardens for an entrance fee.

Kulturbrauerei: This is a former brewery that has been converted into an entertainment and cultural center. Visitors can enjoy live music, theatre, and comedy at the Kulturbrauerei, located in the heart of Berlin.

Aside from these key attractions, don’t forget to sample the local cuisine! Berlin is filled with delicious restaurants serving traditional German dishes, such as bratwurst and schnitzel. Head to a local beer garden or café to experience the best of Berlin’s culinary offerings. With its vast array of attractions, Berlin is the perfect holiday destination for history and culture-lovers alike.

Cologne, in Germany is a beautiful destination to visit for those interested in history and architecture. With its stunning Romanesque churches, a fascinating Jewish history, and a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, a trip to Cologne is sure to be a memorable one. 

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): Located in the heart of the city, the magnificent Cologne Cathedral is the city’s main landmark and a UNESCO World heritage site. It is famous for its impressive Gothic facade, its unique stained glass windows, and its treasury. Visit in the early evening for a breathtaking view of the majestic spires of the Cathedral lit up in the night sky. Location: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany. Hours: 6:00 AM–9:30 PM. Entrance Fee: €9.

Augustusburg Castle (Schloss Augustusburg): Set atop a hill in nearby Brühl, Augustusburg Castle is the former residence of the prince-electors of Cologne. Built in the Baroque and Rococo styles, it is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Inside, you can admire the beautiful Golden Gallery and the exquisite Court Chapel. Location: Schlossplatz 2, 50321 Brühl, Germany. Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Entrance fee: €7.

Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum): The Chocolate Museum is a must-visit for any chocoholic. Here, you can learn all about the history of chocolate and sample some delicious treats. With its interactive exhibits, workshops, and a café serving over 20 varieties of hot chocolate, this is sure to be a sweet experience. Insider tip: make sure to try the fondue fountain! Location: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50678 Köln, Germany. Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €11.

Wallraf-Richartz Museum & Fondation Corboud (WDR): This world-renowned museum houses an impressive collection of European art, with masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Highlights include paintings by Rubens, Baroque sculptures, and a modern art collection. Location: Martin-Luther-Platz 3, 50676 Köln, Germany. Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €9.

Cologne Zoo (Zoologischer Garten Köln): Visit the oldest and largest zoo in Germany, located on the banks of the Rhine River. This zoo is home to over 7,500 animals, including many endangered species. It also features a stunning Japanese Garden and an aquarium. Location: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Köln, Germany. Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €19.

Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum): Explore the history of the city by visiting this museum located in the heart of the city. Here, you can see ancient artefacts and relics from the city's past, including the famous Dionysius mosaic. Location: Roncalliplatz 4, 50667 Köln, Germany. Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €4.

Keulen Restaurant: For a true taste of Cologne, head to Keulen Restaurant. Sample some of the city's classic dishes such as the famous Halver Hahn (cheddar cheese sandwich with onions and mustard) or try some Reibekuchen (potato pancakes). Location: Am Hof 12–14, 50667 Köln, Germany. Hours: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Cologne is an exciting city offering a range of attractions to explore. From its stunning architecture and rich history, to its delicious cuisine and vibrant entertainment, there’s something for everyone in Cologne. Make sure to add it to your travel list!