Essential Preparations: Cologne

Chronological Planning Overview

A structured approach to your trip planning makes a big difference.

Planning Milestones

These milestones guide your preparation for Cologne.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and apply for Schengen Visa if needed.

Flights & Stays

Book flights and main accommodation, especially for peak seasons.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance early.

Month Before

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, accommodation, and pre-booked tours.

Train Tickets

Purchase intercity train or long-distance bus tickets.

Connectivity Plan

Arrange for local SIM card or international roaming.

Week Before

Pack Luggage

Pack clothing and review your packing list.

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of all important documents.

Bank Notification

Notify bank/credit card companies of your travel plans.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing these bookings ahead of time is beneficial.

Reservations

Flights and main accommodation benefit from early booking.
Popular long-distance train routes (ICE) often grant better prices when booked ahead.
Specific tours with limited capacity or high-demand restaurant reservations should also occur in advance.
Consider vacation rentals for space and meal flexibility.

Home Preparation

Steps to secure your home before departure.

Before You Leave

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Stop or redirect mail/newspapers.
Secure your home by locking windows and informing a trusted neighbor.
Unplug unnecessary electronics to conserve energy.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

research enhances your Cologne experience.

Language & Culture

Familiarize yourself with basic German phrases.
Understand local cultural quirks.
Learn about the Kölsch culture.
Read about Cologne's history.

Transport System

Grasp the local public transport system (KVB).
Know how to buy and validate tickets.
Review transport maps.
Consider renting a bicycle.

Local Guides & Reviews

Read traveler reviews for practical advice.
Consult online forums for specific questions.
Look for highly-rated tours and activities.
Check local event calendars.

Reminder: Travel Gear

Acquire specific travel items like Packing organizers from Eagle Creek or medication.

Arrival Essentials

These steps aid in settling into Cologne quickly and efficiently upon arrival.

First Steps Checklist

1
Passport Control & Luggage
Clear immigration at your first Schengen entry point and retrieve checked bags.
2
Cash Withdrawal & Connectivity
Locate an ATM for Euros; activate local SIM or confirm roaming.
3
Orientation & Initial Transport
Visit tourist info, use transport apps, purchase Cologne Card or initial transit ticket.

Transportation to Accommodation

From Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)
Take trains (S-Bahn or Regional Express) directly to Köln Hauptbahnhof.
From Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)
Trains also link Düsseldorf Airport to Köln Hauptbahnhof.
From Hauptbahnhof to Your Stay
Connect to local KVB trams, U-Bahn lines, or a taxi from the main station.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip. Inquire about international shipping from vendors.

Keep receipts for potential VAT refunds.

VAT Refund Process

Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases over €50. Look for "Tax Free" shops.

Complete forms, present items to customs at final EU departure airport for stamp.

Pre-Departure Timing

For international flights, allow 3-4 hours for airport check-in, security, and VAT refund processing.

For train departures, arriving 15-30 minutes before your train departure suffices.

Final Packing Tip

Pack efficiently, verifying liquids in your carry-on luggage comply with security rules. Place items for customs declaration in checked luggage.

Comprehensive Checklist

A complete checklist for your Cologne adventure, from start to finish.

Pre-Departure Checklist 1 Month & 1 Week Out

Reconfirm all bookings (flights, accommodation, train tickets).
Outline your daily itinerary and potential day trips.
Arrange local SIM card or international roaming plan.
Acquire any required travel gear like a Travel rewards card or Packing cubes.

Home & Personal Preparedness

Arrange pet care, halt mail/newspapers, secure your home.
Notify bank/credit card companies of travel plans.
Exchange some currency for immediate arrival expenses.
Download essential apps and offline maps/language packs.

Travel Insurance & Health

Your safety and well-being hold main importance.

Insurance & Health Overview

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads is an option).
Consult your healthcare professional for vaccinations.
Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers (110, 112).
Know lost document procedures and embassy contacts.

Arrival & Departure Summary

Upon arrival: clear immigration, collect luggage, find ATM, activate SIM.
Use public transport from airport to accommodation.
Plan souvenir purchases and inquire about shipping.
Understand VAT refund procedures for non-EU residents.

Final Recommendation

Confirm your flight or train times 24-48 hours before departure.

Pack efficiently, adhering to security regulations for liquids in carry-on luggage.

Essential Preparations