Berlin & Cologne 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel to Berlin

Board a comfortable bus from Prague to Berlin.

Enjoy the scenic journey as you head towards the German capital.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your budget-friendly accommodation in Berlin and drop off your luggage.

Aim for accommodation near public transport for easy access to attractions.

Brandenburg Gate & Reichstag

Begin your exploration with iconic landmarks.

See the historic Brandenburg Gate and the imposing Reichstag Building (exterior view).

The Brandenburg Gate is a symbol of German unity. You can apply online in advance to visit the Reichstag dome, though on short notice, exterior view is more feasible.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Reflect at the poignant Holocaust Memorial, an expansive field of concrete slabs designed to evoke a sense of disorientation.

The information center below the memorial offers deeper insights.

Budget Dinner

Enjoy an affordable dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying a traditional Currywurst or a Döner Kebab.

Look for Imbiss (snack stalls) for cheap and tasty options.

German Spy Museum

Discover the fascinating history of espionage from ancient times to modern day with interactive exhibits at the German Spy Museum.

Checkpoint Charlie

Visit the famous border crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War.

Explore the nearby museum (optional).

The Checkpoint Charlie Museum provides a detailed history, but adds to the cost.

Lunch in Mitte

Grab a quick and affordable lunch in the central Mitte district.

East Side Gallery

Walk along the longest open-air gallery in the world, a section of the Berlin Wall covered in murals by artists from around the world.

Free to visit. Easily accessible by public transport (e.g., S-Bahn Ostbahnhof).

Dinner in Kreuzberg

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kreuzberg with an inexpensive dinner, known for diverse culinary options.

This district offers many budget-friendly international food choices.

Berlin Story Bunker

Explore an original WWII bunker housing a powerful exhibition about National Socialism and Hitler, offering a chilling insight into history.

Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial

Visit the former main remand prison of the East German secret police (Stasi), now a memorial.

Guided tours often led by former inmates.

Late Lunch & Souvenirs

Enjoy a final budget-friendly lunch in Berlin and pick up any last-minute souvenirs.

Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to pack and prepare for your morning travel to Cologne.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing, budget-conscious dinner to conclude your time in Berlin.

Travel to Cologne

Take a high-speed train from Berlin to Cologne, a comfortable journey across Germany.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your budget-friendly hotel in Cologne and have a quick lunch near the city center.

Cologne Cathedral

Explore the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Climb the south tower for panoramic views (optional).

Explore Old Market (Alter Markt)

Wander through the historic Old Market Square, soaking in the festive atmosphere leading up to Christmas Eve.

Admire the traditional architecture and fountains.

Many Christmas markets might still be open or winding down on Christmas Eve afternoon, adding to the charm.

NS Documentation Centre

Visit the largest regional memorial site in Germany for victims of National Socialism, offering a somber but important historical perspective.

Christmas Eve Dinner

Enjoy a special but budget-friendly Christmas Eve dinner.

Many restaurants will offer fixed menus or traditional German fare.

Booking is highly recommended for Christmas Eve as many places will be busy or have limited hours.

Christmas Morning Walk

Enjoy a quiet Christmas morning walk around Cologne, perhaps revisiting the Cathedral square or along the Rhine river before heading home.

Breakfast & Check-out

Have breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café and check out.

Travel from Cologne to Prague

Board a train or bus for your return journey from Cologne to Prague, concluding your trip.

Arrive in Prague

Arrive back in Prague after your enriching trip through Germany.

Check Out from Hotel

Enjoy a final German breakfast before checking out from your economical accommodation in Cologne.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and accounted for.

Transfer to Cologne Hbf

Make your way to Cologne Hauptbahnhof (main train station) or a central bus station for your journey back to Prague.

Travel from Cologne to Prague

Embark on your journey back to Prague by bus or train.

The trip offers scenic views as you cross several countries.

Consider bringing snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the journey. Booking in advance is recommended for better prices and seat availability.

Arrive in Prague

Arrive at Prague's main bus or train station.

From here, you can easily connect to local transport to reach your final destination.