5-Day Spring Itinerary: Exploring Cologne, Germany to Milan, Italy in May 2025

Day 1: Cologne Historic Arrival

Cologne, Germany on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Rico

Start your day with a hearty German breakfast at Café Rico, known for its fresh pastries and strong coffee, open from 7:30am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

Visit the iconic Cologne Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb the tower for panoramic city views.
EUR6, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Peters Brauhaus

Enjoy traditional Rhineland dishes and Kölsch beer at Peters Brauhaus, an authentic brewery with a cozy atmosphere, open from 11:00am.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Museum Ludwig

Explore Museum Ludwig’s contemporary art collection including works by Picasso and Warhol. It opens at 10:00am and is a must for art lovers.
EUR12, 2h

4:00pm

Walk along Rhine River Promenade

Take a relaxing stroll along the scenic Rhine River promenade, perfect for soaking in the city vibe and photographing the historic bridges.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Haxenhaus Zum Rheingarten

Dine on Bavarian specialties like pork knuckle and sauerkraut at this charming riverside restaurant, open for dinner from 5:00pm.
EUR30, 2h
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Day 2: Cologne Culture and History

Cologne, Germany on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bastian’s

Enjoy fresh baked goods and artisanal coffee at Bastian’s, a popular morning spot open from 7:30am.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Discover Roman artifacts and Cologne’s ancient history at this museum close to the cathedral, open from 10:00am.
EUR6, 1h30m

11:30am

Shopping and exploring Old Town

Wander Cologne’s Old Town with its charming streets, boutique shops, and cafés leading up to lunch.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Brauhaus Sion

Enjoy authentic German fare and fresh Kölsch beer in a lively brewery atmosphere, open from 12:00pm.
EUR18, 1h

2:30pm

Cologne Chocolate Museum

Visit the famous Chocolate Museum to learn about the history and production of chocolate with tastings included, open from 10:00am.
EUR12, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at MaiBeck

Treat yourself to a gourmet dinner featuring modern German cuisine in a stylish setting, open from 6:30pm.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 3: Cologne to Milan Travel

Cologne to Milan on May 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast at your hotel before departure for Milan, featuring fresh breads and local specialties.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train from Cologne to Milan

Take the high-speed train (approx 7 hours) from Cologne Hauptbahnhof to Milano Centrale for scenic and comfortable travel.
EUR100, 7h

4:00pm

Check-in and Rest at Milan Hotel

Arrive in Milan, check into your centrally located hotel, and relax after your journey.
Varies, 1h

6:00pm

Evening Walk at Piazza del Duomo

Stroll around Milan’s famous Duomo Square to admire the stunning cathedral facade illuminated at dusk.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Luini Panzerotti

Try traditional Italian panzerotti from this beloved spot near the Duomo, perfect for a casual yet delicious dinner.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 4: Milan Iconic Sights

Milan, Italy on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pavé

Start with coffee and fresh pastries at Pavé, a trendy bakery open from 7:00am famous for its croissants and cappuccino.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Visit Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)

Tour the breathtaking Gothic cathedral, including access to the rooftop terraces for stunning city views. Opens at 9:00am.
EUR15, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Paper Moon

Savor Milanese and Italian classics in a refined setting, known for its risotto and seafood, open from noon.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

Explore the grand Renaissance castle housing museums and beautiful grounds, open from 9:00am to 5:30pm.
EUR10, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee at Caffè Cova

Relax with an espresso at Caffè Cova, one of Milan’s historic cafes established in 1817.
EUR8, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Madonnina

Experience traditional Lombard cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, popular for its ossobuco and polenta; dinner service starts from 7:00pm.
EUR35, 2h
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Day 5: Milan Art and Departure

Milan, Italy on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Marchesi 1824

Enjoy a refined pastry and coffee at this historic Milanese pastry shop opened since 1824, perfect for a final morning treat.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie)

Book in advance to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece mural; visit is strictly timed and highly regulated.
EUR20, 1h

11:00am

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Explore this elegant 19th-century shopping arcade filled with luxury shops and cafés, ideal for souvenir shopping or a quick coffee.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Obicà Mozzarella Bar

Enjoy fresh Italian mozzarella and light dishes in a modern setting inside the Galleria, open from 12:00pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Departure or continue exploring

Wrap up your Milan visit or head to your next destination refreshed and culturally enriched.
Varies, Varies
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