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Cologne is a feeling.

Welcome to cologne.

We look forward to your visit. Here you will find everything you need to know for carefree days in Cologne. Experience exciting museums, enjoy a refreshing Kölsch beer in a rustic atmosphere or unwind at many great events. We are the official tourism organisation of the city of Cologne and have all the information you need about upcoming highlights, sights such as Cologne Cathedral, Christmas markets, breweries, Cologne Pride and, of course, Cologne Carnival. Discover now what makes the cosmopolitan metropolis on the Rhine so special!

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Fall in love with Cologne

Experiences & Lifestyle

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Arts & Culture

Cultural relics, museums, galleries & urban art

Delight & Diversity

Gastro scene and LGBTQIA+ community

Cologne Storytelling

The hospitality of Cologne

Here, tradition and history remain alive. It gets cosy when the Köbes comes around with the Kölsch wreath and the sauerbraten steams on the table. Enjoy Cologne conviviality and Rhenish cuisine. Conversations with the people sitting next to you are included.

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Urban life on the Rhine

Cologne is one of the hotspots for street art in Germany. Several routes, guided tours and specialised galleries offer you an introduction to the scene. For example, you'll see a lot in Ehrenfeld, the Belgian Quarter, but also in the city centre ...

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Current events

Cologne’s event calendar is always well-filled, year after year. Here’s a list of coming events:

Cologne Ferris Wheel

Cologne Zoo

meet & eat market

Rudolfplatz, 50674

The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind

Former car dealership

UEFA EURO 2024 in Cologne

Köln Stadion

1863 • PARIS • 1874: Revolution in Art

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

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Tourist information

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Cologne's fifth season

What you need to know about the 2024 session

The TOP sights

All sights at a glance

Everyone is welcome

The 17th European Football Championship will be held in Germany from June 14 to July 14, 2024. Cologne is one of the host cities.

Football traditionally plays a special role in Cologne. In the summer of 2024, five UEFA EURO 2024 matches will be played in the Cologne Stadium. Look forward to exciting games and an extensive supporting program in the heart of Europe.

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Practical information

Your journey to Cologne

This is the best way to get to the cathedral city

Cologne city map

Our interactive map of Cologne

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Cologne (Köln) offers a mother lode of attractions, led by its famous cathedral whose filigree twin spires dominate the skyline. The city’s museum landscape is especially strong when it comes to art but also has something in store for fans of chocolate, sports and even Roman history. Cologne's people are known for their liberalism and joie de vivre; it’s easy to have a good time with them in the beer halls of the Altstadt or during Carnival.

Best Things to Do

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cologne’s geographical and spiritual heart – and its single-biggest tourist draw – is the magnificent Kölner Dom. With its soaring twin spires, this is…

Römisch-Germanisches Museum

Sculptures and ruins displayed outside the entrance are merely the overture to a full symphony of Roman artefacts found along the Rhine. Highlights…

Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud

One of Germany's finest art museums, the Wallraf-Richartz presents a primo collection of European art from the 13th to the 19th centuries in a minimalist…

Museum Ludwig

A mecca of modern art, Museum Ludwig presents a tantalising mix of works from all major genres. Fans of German expressionism (Beckmann, Dix, Kirchner)…

Domschatzkammer

Reliquaries, robes, sculptures and liturgical objects are handsomely presented in medieval vaulted rooms below the main floor of the Dom. Standouts…

Art, history, architecture and spirituality form a harmonious tapestry in this spectacular collection of the Archdiocese of Cologne's religious treasures…

Schokoladenmuseum

This boat-shaped, high-tech temple to the art of chocolate making has plenty of engaging exhibits on the 5000-year cultural history of the ‘elixir of the…

NS-Dokumentationszentrum

Cologne's Third Reich history is poignantly and exhaustively documented in the NS Documentation Centre housed in the very building that served as the…

Top picks from our travel experts

How to spend a perfect long weekend in cologne.

Church of Gross St Martin

Winning top honours for Cologne's most handsome church exterior is Gross St Martin, with an ensemble of four slender turrets grouped around a central…

Früh am Dom

This warren of a beer hall near the Dom epitomises Cologne earthiness and is a great place to sample the typical Kölsch beer. Knock them back and tuck…

The name translates as Vault so it's quite apropos that you have to negotiate a maze of small rooms to arrive at the main floor at this underground club…

Church of St Gereon

The most eccentric looking of Cologne's many Romanesque churches, St Gereon grew from a late-Roman chapel into this massive complex lidded by a 10-sided…

This well-respected Zülpicher Viertel restaurant is an excellent pit stop at any time of the day. Come for extravagant breakfasts, light lunches and…

Brauhaus Peters

This beautifully restored 19th-century pub draws a crowd knocking back their Kölsch in a web of highly individualistic nooks, including a little 'chapel'…

Church of St Ursula

If you look at Cologne’s coat of arms, you’ll see what looks like 11 apostrophes. In fact, the squiggles represent St Ursula and 11,000 virgins who were…

Bei Oma Kleinmann

Named for its long-time owner, who was still cooking almost to her last day at age 95 in 2009, this perennially booked, graffiti-covered restaurant serves…

Latest stories from Cologne

Nov 17, 2023 • 6 min read

How can you pick between the iconic markets in Cologne and Nuremburg? Two locals fight it out for the crown.

Feb 21, 2022 • 5 min read

Dec 4, 2019 • 6 min read

Feb 18, 2019 • 5 min read

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Cologne (Köln) Area Travel Guide

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This city guide is an introduction to Cologne ( Köln in German) and will help you start planning your visit to this city on the beautiful Rhine river (Rhein in German). Keep reading this page for an overview of what to do and see in the Cologne area. Or check out one of our more in-depth guides here: Where to stay in Cologne 28 best things to do in Cologne 14 castles to visit near Cologne

Near the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Cologne is a must-see for many visitors to Germany. Home of the magnificent Cologne cathedral (Kölner Dom), a chocolate museum, the famous Kölsch beer, river cruises, and hip neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty to do, see, and experience in Cologne.

I’ve visited Cologne (and the Rhine/Moselle area) several times and even spent a couple months living just outside of Cologne and also in a smaller town in the region. It’s a beautiful area!

What to Do and See in Cologne

Cologne is located in western Germany in what’s called the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region of the Bundesland Nordrhein-Westfalen (state of North Rhine-Westphalia). 

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Whether you’re into food, history, architecture, nature, art, or spontaneous adventures, you’ll find plenty to see, see, and experience in and around Cologne. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Cologne Cathedral
• Chocolate museum
• Boat trip on the Rhine
• Cologne Zoo
• Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum
• Christmas markets
• Ludwig Museum
• Cologne’s Old Town
• Botanical Garden
• Kölsch beer tour
• Wallraf-Richartz Museum
• Romano-Germanic Museum
• Belgian Quarter
• NS Documentation Center
• Hohenzollern Bridge & Love Locks
• Cable car across the Rhine
• Ehrenfeld street art

If You’re Only In The City For A Few Hours Or A Day:

We recommend booking a guided tour so you can easily and quickly see the best sights and have a memorable experience. Book ahead so you’re sure to get a spot in your preferred tour.

• If you like walking tours, book this guided city highlights tour with a local.
• If you’d like to tour the cathedral, the Old Town, and try a Kölsch, book this highly rated tour.
• If you prefer scooting around on a segway, book this innovative Cologne segway tour.
• More into e-scooters? Book this Cologne e-scooter tour so you can see all of Cologne’s best sights.
• If you’d rather sit back and enjoy as a knowledgable guide pedals you around the best of the city, book this guided rickshaw tour.
• Want to get off the beaten path? Book this Ehrenfeld street art walking tour to make your time in Cologne even more memorable.

TIP: if you have our Germany Travel Planner be sure to check out the interactive planning map so you can see where the best sights are located. Seeing where these sights are on the map, along with our up-to-date photos and tips, makes planning your trip SO much easier. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

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Where to Stay in Cologne

You’ll find a wide variety of accommodation options in Cologne, including hotels, B&Bs, and apartments. If you’re only in Cologne for a couple days, I recommend a hotel in downtown near the cathedral so that you can easily walk to sights, shopping, restaurants, and the Rhine river. You can also easily catch public transportation to other parts of the city from this area.

READ our Cologne (Köln) hotel guide!

Where We Stayed in Cologne

On our most recent trip to Cologne, we stayed at the wonderful Konzept Hotel zum kostbaren Blut . This hotel prioritizes sustainability and is in a converted convent above the historic square of Alter Markt.

It has a slightly funky retro vibe but is equipped with all your standard, modern amenities. It’s location is perfect, since it’s only a short walk from the train station, Cathedral, Altstadt, the Christmas markets, and Rhine river. It’s also well-connected to public transport.

Our room was light, airy, and spotless, the bed was super comfortable, and we had a great view of the Cologne Cathedral from our room and balcony. It’s also reasonably priced and there are lots of options for food and drink nearby. Highly recommended!

If you’re looking for an apartment in Cologne, do a search on Booking.com . We’ve found several great apartments there (less than what we saw on Airbnb for the same apartment) and it’s SO nice to have all hotel and apartment reservations in one place.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Book your Cologne accommodations in advance! They tend to fill quickly during peak travel times (summer, Christmas, etc) so I recommend seeing what’s open for your travel dates .

Cologne Tours & Tickets

One of the best things about making Cologne your home base is that you have countless day trip options. You can plan your own day trips for maximum flexibility or book a guided tour for maximum relaxation and convenience. Some ideas to kickstart your planning are below but do check out this list here.

2-Hour Cologne Cathedral & Old Town Tour with Kölsch

Brewery tour with three kölsch tastings, chocolate museum entrance ticket.

HOHO City Bus Tour

1.5 hour top sights boat cruise, cologne city highlights with a local.

Cologne Guided Segway Tour

3-hour guided bike tour, cologne old town walking tour with beer tasting, cologne day trips.

One of the best things about making Cologne your home base is that you have countless day trip options! A few ideas are below but do check out this list of day trips here.

• Private day trip to Hoensbroek Castle in Holland
• Private day trip to Drachenburg Castle and Linz
• Linz am Rhein
• Carolus Thermen Bad (Aachen)
• Liege, Belgium
• More castles !

READ more about day trips from Cologne here!

TIP: If you have our Germany Travel Planner/Bundle look at our interactive planning map to see do-able day trips. Seeing the castles, towns, and other must-see sights on the map (along with our photos and up-to-date tips) makes it much easier to decide what to add to your itinerary. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

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Know Before You Go

Airport: Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) Currency:  Euro Language:   The official language of Germany is German (Deutsch) Time zone:  Central European Time (CET / GMT+ 2 / 6 hours ahead of US EST) Germany Visa:  tourists from the US, Canada, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Germany for under 90 days. Germany Electricity Socket:  Germany uses different voltage and sockets than in North America, the UK, and other parts of the world.  Read our guide to adapters and converters  so you can safely use your tech in Germany. Germany SIM card:  Read our guide here to SIM cards  and other ways to use your phone in Germany. Germany Car Rentals:  We find  great deals on rental cars here . You can also check out our scenic  Germany road trips article here.

Currency:  euro Language:  the official language of Germany is German (Deutsch) Time zone:  Centra European Time (CET / GMT+ 2 / 6 hours ahead of US EST) Germany Visa:  tourists from the US, Canada, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Germany for under 90 days Germany Electricity Socket:  Germany uses different voltage and sockets than in North America, the UK, and other parts of the world.  Read our guide to adapters and converters  so you can safely use your tech in Germany. Germany SIM card: Read our guide here to SIM cards  and other ways to use your phone in Germany. Germany Car Rentals:  We find  great deals on rental cars here . You can also check out our scenic  Germany road trips article here.

Cologne Travel FAQ

Where is cologne located.

Cologne ( Köln in German) is located in the German state of Nordrhein-Westfalen (North Rhine-Westphalia), just south of Düsseldorf and north of Frankfurt.

What is Cologne, Germany Famous For?

Cologne has a famous cathedral right across from the main train station, the Rhine river that flows right through the city, and Kölsch beer, to name a few.

Is Cologne, Germany Worth Visiting?

It really depends on how much time you have in Germany, how close you’ll be to Cologne, and what you most want to do and see. If you’ve always wanted to see the cathedral and you’ll be within a couple hours of Cologne, it’s worth a day or overnight trip. If you’re only planning to be in Berlin or Munich, however, going all the way to Cologne might not be worth it.

Getting to Cologne

Cologne is easy to reach via train, bus, car or plane. If arriving from the US, consider flying into Düsseldorf International Airport as an alternative to Frankfurt. You can take public transportation to Cologne (it takes about an hour) or arrange an  easy airport transfer here ahead of time and a driver will pick you up at the airport and drive you right to your hotel or apartment.

If you’re arriving via train or bus, you’ll arrive at the central train station downtown (Hauptbahnhof). From there you can walk to many downtown hotels ( check out our Cologne hotel guide here ) and tourist sights, take public transportation or grab a taxi.

Getting Around Cologn e

The city center is very walkable and you should be able to easily walk to many hotels and tourist sites. For the ones that are further away you can hop on a tram, bus, U-bahn or S-bahn. There’s also a HOHO (Hop On Hop Off) bus and a Bimmelbahn train for visitors.

Read Our In-depth Cologne Guides! Where to stay in Cologne 28 best things to do and see in Cologne Castles near Cologne

Cologne Basics

Population 1 million Cologne is the largest city on the Rhine river and in North Rhine-Westphalia. It’s the 4th largest and one of the oldest cities in Germany.

Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS) & Cologne/ Bonn Airport (CGN)

Bundesland North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen)

Train Travel Times to Cologne Berlin ➔ Cologne = 4 hrs 20 min Frankfurt ➔ Cologne = 1 hr – 2 hrs 20 min Hamburg ➔ Cologne = 4 hours Salzburg ➔ Cologne = 6 – 8 hours Paris ➔ Cologne = 3.5 hrs – 5 hrs Rome ➔ Cologne = 12 hrs 45 min – 14 hrs 45 min Prague➔ Cologne = 7.5 hrs – 8.5 hrs

Fun Facts Cologne’s airport has the only runway in Germany that is also an emergency landing site for NASA shuttles!

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A local’s guide to Cologne: 10 top tips

Vintage shops, great bars, buzzing squares and art on tap, there’s a lot more to Cologne than its iconic cathedral and railway bridge

Spiritual gifts

There are many more amazing churches and spiritual spots to visit than just the incredible cathedral with its 157-metre twin spires, one of Germany’s most famous and visited buildings. For example, Melaten-Friedhof is among the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe, set in a huge park with wonderful trees and plants that attract lots of birds. It is 20 minutes’ walk east of Brüsseler Platz, in the Lindenthal district, and was modelled on Paris’s Père Lachaise cemetery. It has some beautiful tombs from the early 19th century to the present day – especially on Millionaire Avenue, where the city’s wealthiest inhabitants were buried.

There are 12 Romanesque churches in Cologne. Wherever you walk in the centre you’ll come across at least one. For me the most fascinating is the Basilica of St Ursula , close to the main train station. Make sure to see the Goldene Kammer (Golden Chamber), where the walls are decorated with an enormous mosaic made of thousands of human bones and skulls. According to one legend, these are the bones of 11,000 virgins killed because they refused to marry the Huns. It’s an impressive place, both cruel and beautiful. Also worth visiting is St Peter’s , close to main shopping street (Schildergasse), which has a huge painting by Peter Paul Rubens, and an altar by 20th-century sculptor Eduardo Chillida.

The Belgian Quarter

The district I’ve lived and worked in for 30 years, Belgisches Viertel (the Belgian Quarter), has evolved over the decades from calm and residential to hip neighbourhood with little coffee bars, restaurants and creative stores. The heart of the quarter is Brüsseler Platz , where Kölsch, a typical Cologne beer served in 200ml glasses (about a third of a pint), flows abundantly, especially on summer evenings. Right on the square is Hallmackenreuther , a 1970s-style coffee bar serving breakfast and snacks during the day that turns into a trendy bar in the evening. Popular with artists and musicians, it has retro furniture, huge windows overlooking the square and a striking six-metre neon ballerina on one wall.

On a rainy day I like to go to art nouveau Neptunbad , a public bath built in 1912 that now offers indoor and outdoor saunas, pools, relaxation areas and a Japanese garden. There’s also a restaurant serving light and healthy dishes. The building is strikingly beautiful, and large parts of the original decor remain, giving the changing rooms a special flair. The historic sauna is wonderful, as is the Emperor’s Bath (Kaiserbad), in which you can drift along to underwater music. The rest is very modern, with an Asian aesthetic. Admission from €19.50 for two hours, Neptunplatz 1, neptunbad.de

Upcycled heaven

If you love fashion from the 1970s, 80s and 90s, head for the vintage shop Todd . Close to Brüsseler Platz, it serves the city’s various subcultures well and has an unpretentious and friendly atmosphere. In addition to secondhand clothing, you can also find backpacks, trinkets and books, and small collections from local designers who print T-shirts, upcycle clothes from old shirts, and produce leather accessories from scraps. Brüsseler Strasse 72, todd-the-shop.com

The art of books

A wonderful bookstore, and an institution in Cologne when it comes to art books, is the three-floor Buchhandlung Walther König . I can stay in there for hours looking at all the tomes on architecture, film, design, fashion and art. It’s not only of interest for art lovers, but a paradise for lovers of beautifully made books on all subjects. The founder, Walther König, and his son, Franz, are often in the shop and very approachable, and the ever-changing decorated store-window is regularly curated by artists. Ehrenstraße 4, buchhandlung-walther-koenig.de

Gallery hopping

Cologne has had a lively gallery scene since the 1960s. Two I recommend are Galerie Gisela Capitain , just around the corner from Buchhandlung König, which holds the estate of Martin Kippenberger in her spacious rooms, and Galerie Buchholz , hidden behind an antiquarian bookstore, where spacious rooms exhibit internationally established artists such as Isa Genzken and Anne Imhof. Younger galleries such as Ginerva Gambino or Raum Drei promote emerging talent. Most of these spaces are in the centre of Cologne. My favourite newer gallery is Jan Kaps , which represents a younger generation of international artists in a variety of media, from painting and conceptual art to photography, video and sculpture, as well as hosting lectures. Kaps also has two smaller galleries on the same street (Jülicherstrasse).

Eastern influence

The Museum of East Asian Arts (Museum fuer Ostasiatische Kunst), on the edge of the Aachener Weiher lake, is about 15 minutes’ walk from Melaten cemetery, but still within the green belt. It’s one of the smaller museums, and rather quiet, which is why it’s so special. The 1970s red-brick building was built by Japanese architect Kunio Maekawa, a student of Le Corbusier. The collection is comprehensive, with furniture, woodcuts, utensils, lacquer work, painting, sculpture and much more from China, Korea and Japan, some pieces from early as the 15th century. At the centre of the complex is the beautiful Japanese meditation garden, which fits perfectly with the serenity of the museum. After visiting the collection, stop in the museum cafe, Schmitz, which is run by one of the top restaurateurs in Cologne. From the terrace, you can enjoy the best ice-cream in Cologne with views of the lake. Permanent collection €6/€3.50, closed Mondays, Universitätsstraße 100, museum-fuer-ostasiatische-kunst.de

Out of town

Around 45 minutes’ drive, or train journey (to Satzvey station), south of the city, in the middle of a field in Mechernich, is the Bruder-Klaus-Feldkapelle , a small chapel designed (between 2005 and 2007) by the great Swiss architect Peter Zumthor , who also designed the famous Kolumba diocesan museum incentral Cologne. The interior is made of over 100 spruce trunks in a wigwam shape, covered in concrete and then set on fire to leave a sombre interior of charred wooden remains. The top of the chapel has been left open so that sunshine and rain alike fall into the otherwise dark space. It’s a very peaceful place. Open 10am-5pm in summer and 10am-4pm in winter, closed Mondays except on religious holidays, feldkapelle.de

Close to Barbarossaplatz is the cosy Metronom bar , which has been open for 50 years now and immediately transports you to another time. Rather than pretending to be hip and cool, it feels authentic and unique, with shelves full of old jazz vinyl that are played on the venue’s record player. The furniture is also old, as are the yellowed photos of jazz legends on the walls, though you don’t have to be a jazz aficionado to love this wonderful and atmospheric pub. Weyerstrasse 59, on Facebook

A five-minute walk from Brüsseler Platz is my favourite new restaurant, Brüx , which serves what it calls freshly cooked “soul food” – salads, pasta, potatoes with delicious toppings. The prices are low, between €5 and €10 to take away, but you can also eat in. From the outside, it’s rather inconspicuous and small, but the chic-casual interior is decorated with secondhand furniture, ceramic tiles and industrial lighting. And you can look directly into the open kitchen where the food, usually organic and regional, is being prepared. Brüsseler Straße 44, on Facebook

When to go Cologne has loads of events all year round, but there are a few special times – not least the rambunctious carnival , which includes several days of costume parades, songs and beer (20-28 February). Art Cologne , involving 180 galleries (23-26 April 2020), is one of the world’s oldest fairs for modern and contemporary art, and Sommer Köln features concerts, theatre and more in July and August.

Where to stay

Smarty hotel (doubles from €98 room-only) has cool pods and dorms. The new 25 Hours The Circle (doubles from €139 room-only) has playfully upbeat rooms and a buzzy restaurant.

Susanne Zander is co-owner, Delmes & Zander gallery , Cologne

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 25 Best Things to Do in Cologne (Germany)

25 Best Things to Do in Cologne (Germany)

On the Rhine, Cologne ( German: Köln ) is a cultural capital and university city enriched with more than 2,000 years of history. In Roman times Cologne was in charge of a province, and ancient vestiges bubble through the city’s surface at medieval Romanesque churches and the gripping Romano-Germanic Museum.

If you love to lose yourself in a great museum for a few hours there’s enough art and history to keep you in Cologne for days. You’re going to have to be ruthless and organised just to fit a few in. And for refreshment in between the Romanesque churches and museums, Cologne is the city with the most pubs per person in Germany . Add to the mix effortlessly cool neighbourhoods, a dynamic new riverside district and a celebrated cathedral and you may never want to leave.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Cologne :

1. Cologne Cathedral

An international pilgrimage site, Cologne Cathedral has held the reliquary of the Three Kings since 1164. In 1248 work started on a new Gothic home for these precious remains, and it was inspired by the ethereal cathedrals of Northern France.

Now a UNESCO site, Cologne Cathedral is the single most visited landmark in Germany and its 19th-century towers are still the second-tallest structures in the city.

There’s a dizzying profusion of invaluable art to see inside, like stained glass windows from the 1500s, the 10th-century Gero-Kreuz crucifix and a black marble high altar from the 1300s carved with niches featuring images from the Coronation of the Virgin.

But the gilded shrine of the Three Kings is what draws the crowds.

This is a triple sarcophagus decorated with 12th-century reliefs of episodes from the life of Christ, prophets and apostles, all by Nicholas of Verdun.

2. Ludwig Museum

Exhibiting art from after 1900, the Ludwig Museum was set up in the 1980s in the modern, purpose-built complex near the cathedral.

The attraction came about during the 1970s after the Ludwigs, Peter and Irene, donated a multi-million-dollar collection of 20th-century art.

Among the many Picassos and the extensive collection of Russian Avant-Garde pieces, there are iconic examples of Pop Art, like Warhol’s “Brillo Boxes” and “Maybe” by Roy Lichtenstein.

This is all alongside the Sammlung Haubrich collection, which covers Expressionist art by Erich Heckel, Kirchner, August Macke and Karl Schmidt-Rottluff to name a few.

3. Romano-Germanic Museum

In the war a Roman villa was uncovered next to the cathedral when a bomb shelter was being built.

This was fully excavated later, and rather than try to move the centrepiece, beautiful Dionysus mosaic, an entire museum was built around the site in the 1970s.

The museum also shows off all of the artefacts found around Cologne from the time of Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, which was the capital of the Germania Inferior province.

This settlement specialised in glassmaking, and the quantity and workmanship of the shape-blown glass, snake-thread glass and ground glass is mesmerising.

The single most valuable piece is the 4th-century “Cologne cage cup”, which bears Greek lettering that reads “Drink, live well forever”.

4. Wallraf-Richartz Museum

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum was born in 1824 when Franz Ferdinand Wallraf bequeathed a tremendous assortment of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Impressionist art to the city.

Some of the finest Gothic pieces were painted by Stefan Lochner, the Cologne-based 15th-century artist who contributed the Dombild Altarpiece to the cathedral.

The Last Judgment, Madonna of the Rose Bower and Triptych with the Virgin in the Garden of Paradise deserve as much time as you can give them.

But Lochner is only a fraction of what this extraordinary museum has to offer, as the art of Albrecht Dürer, Hieronymous Bosch, Rubens, van Dyck, Rembrandt, Degas, Monet and many more is in store.

5. Cologne’s Old Town

As you saunter from square to square in the historic centre of the city it’s worth remembering that three quarters of Cologne was obliterated in the war.

It can be humbling to wander a cobblestone alley and think that this would have been rubble just 70 years ago.

And yet the old world atmosphere still shines through on streets and plazas like Heumarkt and Altermarkt, even among the newer concrete constructions from the post-war period.

Along Am Hof, look for the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, a fountain from 1899. You’ll meet the Cologne’s beloved Heinzelmännchen, gnomes who did all the city’s work at night so the citizens could relax (until the gnomes were insulted and left town forever).

Suggested tour : Night watchman tour through the Old Town

6. Groß St. Martin

Part of the skyline since the 12th century, Cologne would be the same without the fabulous crossing tower of Groß St. Martin.

And when this wonderful Rhenish monument was hit by bombs in the war, the reconstruction gave an opportunity to study its foundations, which go back to Roman times.

Beneath the signature trefoil chancel you can now see where the church’s walls merge seamlessly with the walls of a Roman storehouse.

The restoration lasted until the 1980s, and the church’s interior is typical of a Romanesque place of worship, with solemn architecture and understated decoration.

7. St. Maria im Kapitol

In the Kapitol Viertel, this Romanesque church is on the spot where ancient Colonia’s Roman Temple once stood.

The largest of Cologne’s three surviving Romanesque churches, St. Maria im Kapitol dates to the middle of the 11th century and its apses are modelled on Bethlehem’s Church of the Nativity.

Amazingly, the original wooden doors, dated to 1046 are still in good condition and are displayed on the south side of the aisle.

Framed by intricate patterning they have reliefs depicting the life of Christ.

In addition to the church’s tombs and marvellous wooden images, check out the explicit pietà (Christ on the cross) in the northeastern apse, which was carved in the 1300s and is remarkable for its expressiveness.

8. Botanical Garden

In the north of the city, next to the zoo is Cologne’s loveliest park: 11.5 hectares of sprawling lawns, individual gardens and greenhouses around an exquisite glass palace inspired by London’s Crystal Palace and built in the 1860s.

Known as the Flora, this monument was intended as an orangery and after coming through a renovation a couple of years ago now stages concerts, talks and private events.

There are more glass structures around the park, like the Main Greenhouse for tropical rainforest, the Small Tropical House supporting tropical crops like sugar cane, vanilla, cocoa and cinnamon, as well as a Subtropical House and a Cactus House.

Outside there’s a Mediterranean garden beside a pond and a gorgeous Italian Renaissance garden complete with stone vase, pergolas a cascade and temple.

9. KölnTriangle

Cologne Cathedral’s World Heritage status means that no buildings are allowed to interfere with the city’s skyline too much.

For this reason the KölnTriangle skyscraper was kept to just over 100 metres.

On the right bank of the Rhine its panoramic observation deck affords a photogenic view of the old town, the cathedral towers and the 266-metre Colonius telecom tower behind it.

Useful descriptions are provided for all the landmarks you can spot from this height.

The platform is open until 23:00, so it’s the best place to see the sun go down behind the cathedral.

10. Hohenzollern Bridge

The tiered-arch bridge between the cathedral and KölnTriangle dates to the start of the 20th century, and when it was rebuilt after the war it was restricted to just rail and pedestrian traffic.

Make a crossing to look over one of Europe’s great rivers towards the tower of Groß St. Martin Church and the towers of Cologne Cathedral directly ahead.

In the last decade the bridge has become another to be taken over by the “love locks” craze.

Couples attach a padlock to the grating beside the footpath and throw the key into the river as an expression of permanence.

These locks now amount to more than two tons, and while love locks have weakened other European structures, the sturdy Hohenzollern Bridge can handle the extra weight.

11. Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln

This outstanding museum has 100,000 pieces of decorative arts in its collection, leading through history to the present day.

The exhibitions are arranged chronologically and contain furniture, weapons, jewellery, porcelain, puppets, tapestries and modern examples of industrial design.

You can embark on a trip through the development of applied arts, or dip into the parts that suit your taste.

There’s a marvellous 18th-century chinoiserie cabinet by the master cabinet-maker David Roentgen, an allegorical tapestry of Africa also from the 1700s or 5,000 years of jewellery crafted on the banks of the Rhine.

The museum also has masterworks of industrial design by the likes of Frank Lloyd Right, Ray Eames and Philippe Starck, and art by Mondrian and Kandinsky.

12. Kolumba Museum

The museum for Cologne’s Archdiocese is in a structure that was erected over the ruins of the St. Kolumba Church.

This fine Late-Gothic church was razed during the Second World War, a the new building surrounding it was designed by Pritzker Prizewinning architect Peter Zumthor.

You enter via the bombed out church building, which is an eerie experience, before ascending to the art galleries.

The exhibition has been devised to reveal the impact of Christianity on different periods of history and parts of the world, so each new piece is a surprise.

You can browse a breathtaking Rhenish Romanesque crucifix with an ivory Jesus, the gilded bronze Hermann Ida Cross from the 1000s, a Coptic Egyptian tunic dating to the 400s and avant-garde pieces by artists like Joseph Beuys and Paul Thek.

13. St Gereon’s Basilica

One of Cologne’s 12 Romanesque churches, St Gereon’s Basilica is also the strangest.

The reason for its outlandish design is that it was built across four phases in the 12th and 13th centuries, and newer portions were simply annexed to the old ones to form a wonderful hodgepodge.

Where the nave should be there’s a decagonal dome 21-metres across, and if you go up close you can tell how its walls were built into Roman ruins below.

That dome is the largest constructed in the western world in the period between Constantinople’s Hagia Sophia from the 500s and Florence Cathedral in the 15th century.

Students of medieval architecture can inspect this mysterious building to work out where each phase began and ended.

14. NS Documentation Center

You can revisit one of the grimmest periods from Cologne’s past at the former HQ of the Gestapo secret police.

Despite the role it filled from 1935 the EL-DE Haus escaped real damage in the Second World War, making it an interesting if harrowing document of the Nazi period.

The permanent exhibition has more than 30 high-tech multimedia stations giving an account of Cologne under national socialism.

The cellar was used as a prison and is one of the best preserved of the period, bearing some 1,800 inscriptions on its walls that testify to the torture and murder that took place here.

Upstairs in the research area the centre’s files that were destroyed at the end of the war have been forensically reconstructed.

15. Schnütgen Museum

The Cäcilienkirche (St Cecilia’s Church) looks a lot like it did when it was completed in 1160 and in 1956 became the venue for a captivating museum of medieval liturgical art.

Cologne’s position in the medieval Catholic world is underlined by examples of craftsmanship that would each be worth a visit in their own right.

There’s goldsmithery, sculpture in wood and stone, stained glass, painting, carved ivory, textiles and manuscripts.

St Cecilia’s own Romanesque tympanum is part of the exhibition, along with an array of wooden and bronze Madonnas and crucifixes like the stunning Cross of St George, sculpted in the 1000s.

16. Belgian Quarter

Maybe Cologne’s trendiest quarter is situated between Aachener Straße in the south and Friesenplatz in the northeast.

It’s a neighbourhood of galleries, hip bars, cafes, theatres, live music venues and boutiques selling vintage clothes or handmade accessories.

They’re are all on streets named after cities and provinces in Belgium, like Liege, Ghent, Brussels and Antwerp, as well as Maastricht and Utrecht.

These are a holdover from the German victory in the Franco-Prussian War in 1870-71. Brüsseler Platz, traced with bars and restaurants is where the city’s cool young things will come to spend summer evenings swigging beer and chatting under the stars.

17. Rheinauhafen District

South of the old town, two kilometres of the Rhein’s left bank have been turned into new district for the digital and creative industries.

Rheinauhafen is the name for the commercial port that used to occupy the riverside here, and since the 1990s the old cranes and waterside industry have been taken over by fresh and ambitious architectural landmarks.

The boldest of these are the award-winning Kranhaus buildings, 60 metres high and resembling colossal hoisting cranes in the way the upper floors jut out 90° over the water.

Some of the noteworthy historic buildings have been repurposed, like the Siebengebirge granary, known for its sharp gables and now repurposed as offices and apartments.

There’s a growing arts scene in the new district, and plenty of places for a meal or drink beside the Rhein.

18. Fragrance Museum

A whisker away from the Rathaus there’s a museum about perfume in the very rooms where Eau de Cologne was invented in the 18th century.

You’ll be inside the oldest intact perfume factory in the world, belonging to the Italian-born perfumer Johann Maria Farina whose invention made waves in the Rococo period and enhanced the city’s reputation.

You can only visit on a 45-minute guided tour, during which you’ll enter the vaults where a cedar barrel has survived for 300 years and see a copper still and laboratory equipment that are faithful replicas of the kind Farina used.

You’ll also see how cologne is created today, and because the scent wasn’t a registered trademark, there’s a presentation of imitations that you can compare to the real thing.

19. Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum

Operated in collaboration with the Lindt & Sprüngli chocolate brand, the Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum is one of the world’s top attractions in its field.

The exhibits strike a balance between educational details about chocolate’s origins and how cocoa is grown, and the indulgence of seeing chocolate being made before your eyes.

There’s a three-metre-high chocolate fountain, at which your guide will dip wafers into the liquid chocolate for you to taste.

The museum also has a “tropicarium” growing cacao trees in a glass cube, silver Mesoamerican vessels for chocolate, as well as pared-down versions of chocolate-making machines, demonstrating how everyone’s favourite treat is produced.

20. Cologne Zoo

Established back in 1860 Cologne Zoo has the distinction of being one of the oldest as well as one of the most up-to-date animal attractions.

There are halls that have been here since the 1800s, along with new facilities that are being introduced all the time, like the expansive Asian elephant park.

The zoo has more than 700 species, and specialises in primates like bonobos, gorillas, tamarins, orangutans and the endangered golden-bellied capuchin.

If you check the schedule there are staggered feeding session throughout the day for penguins, sea lions, meerkats, otters, hippos and also the piranhas in the aquarium.

21. 1. FC Köln

After the 2006 World Cup was awarded to Germany 1. FC Köln set about renovating its stadium for the competition.

The current 46,698-capacity RheinEnergieStadion is among the top stadiums in the Bundesliga, both for atmosphere and the way the tiers come right down to the touchlines of the pitch putting spectators on top of the action.

For football fans, attending one of the 17 home games is an all-day experience that begins at supporters’ bars and continues in the stadium where before the match the “Billy Goat” fans belt out their anthem “Mer stonn zo dir FC Kölle” in the Ripurian dialect to the tune of The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond.

22. Boat Trip on the Rhine

On the left bank of the Rhine at the Hohenzollern Bridge are jetties where you can board a boat for a cruise along the storied Rhine River.

There are three companies offering panoramic tours of the city (KölnTourist, KölnDüsseldorfer and Colonia), but if you book with the tourist board you’ll pay one price and afterwards can choose the company you’d like to ride with.

The route most people take is south to the old fishing community of Rodenkirchen on an hour-long cruise that floats past the cathedral, the spires of the old town, the new Rheinauhaufen district and under a total of four bridges, each with interesting trivia attached.

23. Gamescom

The Koelnmesse exhibition hall is the where the world’s second-largest trade fair for interactive electronics takes place every August.

Over the course of four days Gamescom receives around 350,000 visitors and hosts more than 900 exhibitors.

The crowds show up for world-first announcements about upcoming releases and the chance to try out games and technology in the pipeline.

There’s all kinds of video game-oriented fun, including concerts and appearances by stars like Wladimir Klitschko and Tony Hawk.

To give a sense of its growing status, Angela Merkel showed up to open Gamescom 2017.

24. Christmas Markets

Most cities put on a market in the build-up to Christmas.

But Cologne goes the extra mile, as there’s hardly a public space in the centre that doesn’t have some sort of Christmas-themed market and activity.

To illustrate, there’s a cluster of booths around the Cathedral, beside a stage for live music.

On Heumarkt the city sets up an ice skating rink, while Markt der Engel (Angel Market) is a little city of chalet-style huts illuminated by fair lights selling goodies on Neumarkt.

That’s nowhere near the end of it though, as for kids there’s a village for St. Nicholas on Rudolfplatz, and just around the corner is a lively gay and lesbian Christmas Avenue Market.

Another market by the Chocolate Museum on the Rhine is a cute place to sip Glühwein and nibble on Lebkuchen.

And even now we’re still at the tip of Cologne’s winter iceberg.

25. Kölsch and Halve Hahn

If you want to impress people at Cologne’s traditional Kneipen (pubs) you could order a Kölsch (beer) and a Halve Hahn (rye bread and gouda cheese). Kölsch is the local brew in Cologne, a top-fermented beer, made from Pilsener malt and with a straw colour.

It will come cold, in small 20cl glasses and is very smooth and drinkable.

Needless to say there are loads of other varieties if you’d like to be more adventurous.

Halve Hahn (literally, half rooster), is usually more artful than it sounds.

Your soft rye roll will come with butter, tomatoes, sliced onions and generous slabs of gouda for you to assemble as you like.

25 Best Things to Do in Cologne (Germany):

• Cologne Cathedral
• Ludwig Museum
• Romano-Germanic Museum
• Wallraf-Richartz Museum
• Cologne's Old Town
• Groß St. Martin
• St. Maria im Kapitol
• Botanical Garden
• KölnTriangle
• Hohenzollern Bridge
• Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln
• Kolumba Museum
• St Gereon's Basilica
• NS Documentation Center
• Schnütgen Museum
• Belgian Quarter
• Rheinauhafen District
• Fragrance Museum
• Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum
• Cologne Zoo
• Boat Trip on the Rhine
• Christmas Markets
• Kölsch and Halve Hahn

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Cologne: joie de vivre at its finest

Cologne is known for its joyous attitude and party spirit. The city is a matter of the heart, an emotion and an unfalteringly positive state of mind. At the root of this outlook are Cologne Carnival, kölsch beer and, of course, the cathedral.

Just to pre-warn you, the period between the new year and Ash Wednesday is pretty exceptional in Cologne, as this is when the world-famous Cologne Carnival is held. The highlight of the event is the street carnival, where people celebrate, sing and dance in the pubs and bars around the Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares. Visitors will also notice the unique Cologne joie de vivre in the cosy, rustic pubs that serve kölsch, Cologne's signature beer. The city on the Rhine also boasts a thriving music and art scene, making it a fun place to be. Highlights include Christopher Street Day, Musical Dome, the Wallraf Richartz Museum and the Ludwig Museum with its works by Picasso, Warhol and Lichtenstein.

Cologne Cathedral

Chocolate museum.

Cologne Cathedral will most likely leave you speechless. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and world-class religious edifice, landmark and hub of the metropolis on the Rhine. Countless legends also tell the tale of how Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches came into existence. And before you let your hair down with high-spirited people in the student hang-outs such as the Kwartier Latäng or the Friesenviertel district, why not visit the Rheinpark, take the Cologne Cable Car over Germany's longest river and see what joie de vivre looks like from above.

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Ultimate Cologne Germany Travel Guide: All You Need to Know

Updated on  October 6, 2023  

Welcome to Cologne, Germany's vibrant fourth-largest city that brims with history, charm, and creativity.

Nestled on the banks of the Rhine River, Cologne boasts awe-inspiring landmarks such as the towering Cologne Cathedral, mouthwatering cuisine in traditional breweries and beer halls, and a lively atmosphere centered around its famous Carnival festivities.

This comprehensive travel guide will uncover hidden gems and unique activities tailored for travelers eager to explore this captivating destination.

Yes! Cologne is worth visiting. With its festive beer culture and awe-inspiring historical landmarks, Cologne truly earns a spot on any traveler's list. The city is a melting pot of ancient traditions and modern architecture that seamlessly blend to create an unforgettable experience.

We'll tell you more reasons to visit Cologne in this article .

Planning Your Trip To Cologne

Plan ahead for your trip to Cologne by researching transportation options, visa requirements, and language differences.

Airport And Transportation

Cologne, a stunning city in Germany, is serviced by the Köln Bonn Airport (CGN), which connects to over 130 domestic and international destinations. A variety of airlines including Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, Lufthansa, Ryanair, SWISS, and VLM fly into Cologne for easy access from around the globe.

Navigating Cologne's transportation networks is a breeze thanks to its well-planned public transit system that includes 60 bus lines and tram routes.

Read more about Cologne's excellent public transport here .

Language And Visa Requirements

Embarking on your Cologne adventure starts with understanding the travel requirements and language essentials. For European Union citizens, all you need to enter Germany is a valid identity card or passport.

However, if you're visiting from outside the EU, it's crucial to check whether you will require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days.

Once in Cologne, navigating this beautiful city should be hassle-free thanks to many tourist information centers and English-speaking guides available at popular landmarks.

While the locals appreciate any attempt at speaking German, don't worry too much about language barriers as most people can communicate effectively in English. As for currency concerns, remember that Germany uses the Euro like many other EU countries.

Electricity Socket And SIM Cards

As you prepare for your Cologne adventure, it's crucial to consider the power voltage and electricity socket types used in Germany. The country operates at a voltage of 230V with types F and C sockets.

To keep your electronic devices charged and ready for use, invest in a Germany/Europe Adapter Plug Kit suitable for these specific sockets.

In addition to securing compatible chargers, staying connected through mobile phone service is an essential part of modern travel. Travelers have access to various network options such as CDMA, GSM, LTE Advanced, and even 5G while exploring Germany. [ 1 ]

By equipping yourself with the right power adapters and a suitable SIM card provider like Vodafone Germany or another local carrier ahead of time, you'll be able to navigate Cologne effortlessly — capturing stunning photos at Altstadt (Old Town), checking reviews on reputable local breweries during Kolsch beer tastings sessions or uploading breathtaking Rhine River Cruise landscapes onto social media—all ensuring that cherished memories are preserved forever!

Car Rentals

If you're planning a trip to Cologne, renting a car can be an excellent option for getting around. Not only is the cost of car rental in Germany competitive compared to other European countries but most pickup locations are available in Cologne.

Before renting a car, it's essential to research driving rules and regulations in Germany. For example, German drivers typically don't use their horn as they consider it rude unless there is an emergency situation.

It's also worth noting that many cities have low emission zones which require vehicles to meet specific standards before entering these areas.

Whether you want to see the beautiful countryside surrounding Cologne or head out on a road trip further into Europe, hiring a car is undoubtedly one of the best traveling options available for exploring all this region has to offer.

Best Time To Visit Cologne

The best time to visit Cologne largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. If you're looking for liveliness, February is the month for you.

However, if you prefer mild weather with fewer crowds, Spring (March to May) might be perfect for you. Temperatures are comfortable during these months with less rainfall than other seasons.

Summer months of June, July and August offer warm weather conditions ideal for outdoor activities such as boat tours along the Rhine River or dining al fresco at open-air cafes offering incredible viewings across town.

Things to Do In Cologne

The top attractions and activities in Cologne include the breathtaking Cologne Cathedral, indulging in delicious chocolate at the Chocolate Museum, exploring the charming Altstadt (Old Town), taking a relaxing Rhine River cruise, shopping on Schildergasse, and going on the best tours available.

Cologne Cathedral is a towering masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dominates the skyline of Cologne, Germany. As the largest Gothic cathedral church in Germany, it has become an iconic symbol of German Catholicism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors to Cologne often make the pilgrimage to the cathedral for its historical significance and stunning beauty. The building took over six centuries to complete, with construction starting in 1248 and finishing in 1880.[ 2 ]

A visit to Cologne Cathedral should not be missed when exploring this vibrant city on the banks of the Rhine River. Take a guided tour or wander through at your own pace while taking time to appreciate all its cultural heritage sites along the way.

If you're a chocoholic, the Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a must-visit. This unique museum takes you on an immersive tour through the history of cacao and chocolate, from its use in ancient cultures to modern-day global trade.

But it's not just about the chocolate – the museum boasts a beautiful tropical greenhouse featuring exotic plants like vanilla and cinnamon, as well as exhibits on advertising through time.

The Glass Chocolate Factory lets visitors watch as handmade products are crafted while learning about traditional methods of production.

While at the Chocolate Museum don't forget to stop at their very own café where they serve delectable treats made from all kinds of chocolate varieties.

Altstadt (Old Town)

Altstadt, also known as Old Town Cologne, is a charming area located in the heart of the city's central area. The neighborhood is famous for its Gothic architecture featuring an array of intricate details and decorations that have stood for centuries.

A visit to Altstadt wouldn't be complete without seeing the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. It's one of Germany's most popular landmarks located within walking distance from other top attractions like the Town Hall and Hohenzollern Bridge.

If you're into history or just love soaking up cultural heritage, then visiting Altstadt should definitely be part of your sightseeing tour while in Cologne.

Rhine River Cruise

Taking a Rhine River Cruise is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore Cologne, Germany. You can spot the world-famous Cologne Cathedral and cruise under five bridges during a city cruise in Cologne.

The Gothic Dom in Cologne is a highlight of any visit to Europe and can be seen during a Rhine River Cruise. Additionally, you can extend your journey beyond the Rhine River and explore the Moselle and Main Rivers as well.

If you're looking for an unforgettable way to experience Europe's rivers, consider embarking on an Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise itinerary which includes exploring four countries - Switzerland, France, Germany, and The Netherlands. [ 3 ]

Schildergasse For Shopping

Schildergasse is the go-to shopping destination for travelers in Cologne, Germany. As one of the most visited shopping streets in Germany, it offers everything from high-end fashion to budget-friendly stores and everything in between.

Apart from retail therapy, Schildergasse has many dining options that offer traditional German cuisine and international delicacies.

Whether you are looking for designer clothes or souvenirs to take back home with you, Schildergasse is a must-stop place on your itinerary when visiting Cologne.

Best Tours In Cologne

If you're looking for a way to make the most of your trip to Cologne, joining one of the city's best tours is an absolute must. One great option is exploring historic Old Town Cologne with a knowledgeable guide, who will take you through the picturesque streets and show you some hidden gems along the way.

For those interested in history, a visit to NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne is essential. [ 4 ]

Finally, if you're traveling with family or just love animals, don't miss out on visiting Koelner Zoo - it's home to over 10,000 animals representing more than 700 species! With so many fantastic tours available in Cologne, there really is something for everyone!

Hidden Gems And Local Favorites In Cologne

Discover Cologne's hidden gems and local favorites by visiting the trendy Belgian Quarter, exploring Stadtgarten Park, discovering the Kolumba Art Museum, meeting animals at Cologne Zoo and enjoying traditional German cuisine at Zum Schäfer am Dom.

One of the most popular districts in Cologne, Germany is the Belgian Quarter. This hipster and trendy neighborhood is becoming increasingly popular among visitors, attracting those who are looking for a more laidback and local vibe.

Foodies will definitely enjoy exploring the Belgian Quarter's non-mainstream hip food options. There are plenty of unique eateries to suit every taste bud - from vegan cafes serving up delicious plant-based meals to artisanal bakeries offering freshly baked goods.

Shoppers can also delight in browsing through boutique stores selling locally made crafts, clothing items, accessories, and other vintage finds.

Stadtgarten Park

Stadtgarten Park is a hidden gem in Cologne that travelers should not miss! It's an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering natural beauty and landscapes that leave tourists awestruck.

The park is known for its lovely gardens where visitors can relax while enjoying an ice-cold German beer or indulge in some outdoor dining options.

If you're looking for something to do on your trip to Cologne, make sure to check out Stadtgarten Park.

Kolumba Art Museum

Kolumba Art Museum is a hidden gem in Cologne, Germany that every traveler should visit. The museum's modern and poetic atmosphere offers a unique and immersive experience that combines contemporary with classical art exhibitions.

With its focus on religious art from the Middle Ages, especially the works of the "Cologne School," Kolumba Art Museum has become an important cultural heritage site in the city.

The museum is named after the Late Gothic period church of St. Kolumba where it stands today, adding to its charm and history. Visitors are transported to another world upon entering as they explore quiet spaces to absorb breathtaking displays of prints and Gothic church artifacts that take your breath away. [ 5 ]

In summary, art enthusiasts will find Kolumba Art Museum worth visiting when exploring Cologne, Germany's many attractions because it provides both historical context and artistic immersion opportunities for all visitors alike at this must-see destination in town.

Cologne Zoo is an incredibly popular destination for travelers visiting the city, and it's not hard to see why. Home to over 10,000 animals from more than 750 different species, this zoo is one of the oldest in Germany and boasts an impressive collection of wildlife from all around the world.

One of the highlights of Cologne Zoo is its elephant park - one of the largest in northern Europe. Visitors can watch these gentle giants roam around together or observe them playing with their young ones.

Cologne Zoo has been gifted many animals over the years by supporters from countries all over the world - making this zoo truly unique.

Früh am Dom

One hidden gem in Cologne that travelers must add to their itinerary is Früh am Dom. Tucked away on a quiet street near the famous Cologne Cathedral, this cozy restaurant offers authentic German cuisine and drinks in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The menu features regional specialties like sauerbraten (marinated beef), schnitzel (breaded pork or veal cutlet), and potato pancakes, all made with fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. [ 6 ]

In addition to delicious food, Früh am Dom is also known for its charming ambiance. The interior decor includes antique furniture pieces, vintage photos of Cologne landmarks, and old-fashioned lamps that create a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of traditional German pubs.

During warmer months, visitors can enjoy their meals outside on the quaint terrace surrounded by colorful flowers and greenery.

Overall, Früh am Dom is one of those little-known spots that make traveling so rewarding - it captures the essence of local culture while providing comfort and hospitality to visitors from all over the world.

Where To Stay In Cologne

Best places to stay in cologne.

The best area to stay in Cologne depends on your style of travelling. Are you travelling with your family? 

Are you looking for the best night life?

Or are you visiting for an event?

In general, we recommend:

• Altstadt (Old Town) - For First Timers
• Belgian Quarter – For Nightlife
• Friesenplatz – On A Budget
• Deutz – With Family
• Ehrenfeld – For A Local Experience

Budget Accommodations

Traveling to Cologne doesn't have to break the bank, thanks to a variety of budget accommodation options available throughout the city. From affordable hostels to cozy hotels and apartments, there are plenty of lodging options for travelers on a tight budget.

In fact, some areas in Cologne cater specifically to budget-minded visitors with cheap accommodations and easy access to public transportation.

For backpackers or solo travelers looking for even more savings, there are also shared dormitories available in various hostels across town where they can meet other like-minded individuals.

Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft is one popular choice among backpackers with its funky decor and social events.

In terms of pricing, expect an average daily cost ranging from €48-€75 per day for food and accommodation during your stay in Cologne as a budget-conscious traveler.

Mid-range Hotels

For budget-conscious travelers looking for a more comfortable place to stay in Cologne, the city offers plenty of mid-range hotel options. These hotels may not have all the luxuries of five-star properties, but they still offer quality amenities and services at affordable rates.

Many of these hotels are located within walking distance or a short metro ride away from some of Cologne's top attractions like the famous Cologne Cathedral, Chocolate Museum, and Altstadt (Old Town).

However, it's important to keep in mind that during peak tourist seasons or major events taking place in the city such as Gamescom or Carnaval season prices for mid-range accommodations can increase significantly.

If you're not sure where to start your search for budget-friendly accommodation options when visiting this vibrant German metropolis, then check out our guide here for the best hotels in Cologne.

Luxury Hotels

When it comes to finding luxury hotels in Cologne, travelers have plenty of options to choose from. For those looking for an upscale accommodation, the Dom Hotel Cologne is a top choice.

This classy hotel located in the heart of Cologne's historic Old City offers elegant accommodations and impeccable service that will make guests feel pampered.

For business travelers or those looking for modern accommodations, the Cologne Marriott Hotel definitely deserves consideration. It features meeting and banquet facilities that cater to corporate events or special occasions while still offering comfortable rooms with all the amenities expected by discerning guests.

What To Eat In Cologne

Indulge in traditional German cuisine, sip on local brews at breweries and beer halls or expand your palate with international food options as we guide you through the top dining spots in Cologne.

Traditional German Cuisine

No visit to Cologne is complete without exploring the local culinary traditions. German food is known for its hearty and simple fare, which can be found in restaurants all over the city.

One of the unique features of Cologne's traditional cuisine is its Brauhaus cooking style. This type of cooking involves slow-braising meats such as beef or pork in a mixture of beer and spices to make a savory stew-like dish that pairs perfectly with locally brewed beer.

Despite being primarily influenced by neighboring countries in Central Europe, Germany has many regional variations when it comes to its food culture – don't miss out on trying some of these staple dishes whilst visiting one of Germany's most interesting cities!

Breweries And Beer Halls

No trip to Cologne, Germany is complete without a visit to the city's many breweries and beer halls. With a rich history of brewing dating back centuries, it's no surprise that Kölsch beer is unique to Cologne and typically served in 2L glasses at the many brauhaus pubs around the city.

The traditional city centre of Cologne is home to a number of Brauhäuser, or brewery restaurants, that are steeped in tradition.

The craft beer scene in Cologne has exploded in recent years, with numerous microbreweries popping up around the city offering innovative takes on classic German beers. Whether you prefer pilsners, lagers or stouts, there's something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.

If you're looking for a truly immersive experience, consider taking one of the many brewery tours available throughout the city which offer an insider look into the brewing process and provide ample opportunities for tastings along the way.

International Cuisine Options

Cologne is a melting pot of different cultures, reflected through the diverse culinary scene in the city. For travelers looking for international cuisine options, there are plenty to choose from in Cologne.

The city boasts Indian restaurants like EatDOORI in the city center with authentic dishes such as Chicken Tikka Masala and Tandoori Fish that won't break the bank. [ 7 ]

For those who prefer a taste of Asia, visit Nagoya Sushi & Grill which offers delicious sushi rolls and fried rice bowls with fresh ingredients.

In conclusion, dining at international restaurants offers a unique cultural experience while traveling abroad that should not be missed.

Unique Cafes And Bars

Cologne is a city that never sleeps, and when it comes to cafes and bars, the options are endless. For those looking for something off the beaten path, head to the trendy neighborhoods like Belgian Quarter, Ehrenfeld or Agnesviertel where you can find unique cafes and bars with distinct atmospheres.

Meanwhile, Ehrenfeld is home to some of the hippest bars in Cologne such as Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld which features live music performances and art installations.

If you're looking for somewhere more classic but still unique, try Zum Scheuen Reh which has been around since the 1970s and is known for its retro decor and affordable drinks.

With so many one-of-a-kind options available throughout the city center alone- from street vendors selling gluhwein during Christmas markets in Altstadt to upscale spaces like Funkhaus - travelers will certainly have no trouble finding inventive places to enjoy their nights out while exploring all that Cologne has to offer!

Getting Around Cologne

Getting around Cologne is easy with its well-connected public transportation system, bike rentals, and walkable streets.

Public Transportation

Getting around Cologne is easy with its efficient public transportation system. The city has an extensive network of trains, trams, buses, and suburban railways that are affordable and connect you to almost every part of the city.

Trams and subways in Cologne refer to the same thing - underground trains that run on tracks within tunnels or above ground on street-level rails.

They provide frequent service, about every 5-10 minutes during peak times, connecting tourists to most of the main attraction spots such as Altstadt (Old Town), Chocolate Museum, and Kolumba Art Museum swiftly.

If you plan on taking longer journeys outside central areas like traveling from Köln/Bonn airport or exploring nearby towns such as Bonn-Duisdorf or Troisdorf-Spich, using suburban railways would be ideal.

Bike Rentals

Renting a bike is the perfect way to explore Cologne and its many tourist attractions while enjoying some outdoor activities at the same time. The city of Cologne has made it easier for tourists by providing information on cycling tours and maps, highlighting the best routes to take.

In Cologne, you can rent a bike for just 1 Euro per half-hour, making it an affordable option for all budget travellers out there. One account can rent up to four bicycles at once, so a group or family of four can use this mode of transportation together.

Whether sightseeing or exploring hidden gems around town, biking offers an unparalleled experience that you won't get through other modes of transport.

Walking is a fantastic way to explore Cologne, especially if you're looking for a cost-effective and pedestrian-friendly means of transport.

The city center is compact enough that most attractions are easily accessible on foot, making it the perfect way to soak up the local atmosphere.

For those who prefer structured walks with an informative guide, there are plenty of options available too.

Several tour companies offer guided walks around popular neighborhoods like Altstadt or Belgian Quarter, sharing their knowledge of local history and pointing out hidden gems along the way.

Overall, whether you choose guided tours or go off-the-beaten-path solo adventures, walking is an excellent choice for exploring Cologne's charming streetscapes at your own pace.

Safety And Expenses In Cologne

Is cologne safe.

Cologne is generally considered a safe place to visit, with low crime rates for mugging and kidnapping. However, tourists should exercise caution and be aware of areas that may pose risks.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas or public transportation, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your belongings at all times.

For those traveling alone or late at night, it's best advised to stay near well-lit streets and avoid walking alone in dimly lit places.

While safety remains a top priority for any traveler visiting Cologne, don't let this discourage you from experiencing the city's rich history and attractions.

Is Cologne Expensive?

Whether you're planning a vacation or thinking of living in Cologne as an expat, one of your main concerns might be the cost of visiting . Compared to other major European cities and German cities, Cologne can be quite expensive.

For tourists visiting Cologne on vacation, a one-week trip usually costs around €1,126 for one person. This includes accommodation costs and sightseeing activities such as visiting the famous Cathedral or taking a cruise along the Rhine River.

While language barriers may pose challenges when navigating pricing information independently as an English speaker unfamiliar with German currency systems, many find that being aware of general trends among destinations abroad keeps expenses manageable throughout their international travels.

This allows them more financial freedom to enjoy local landmarks and cultural experiences unique to each region they visit within Europe!

Do you know that the  Koln Card  offers up to 50% off many museums, resturants, attractions in Cologne? Read more about the  Cologne Card here .

You might also like: 50+ Interesting Facts about Cologne, Germany

References:

1: The current state of 5G in Germany, retrieved from https://www.rcrwireless.com/20230103/5g/the-current-state-5g-germany 2: Cologne Cathedral - UNESCO World Heritage Centre, retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/292/ 3: Rhine River Cruise Itinerary | Adventures By Disney, retrieved from https://www.adventuresbydisney.com/europe/rhine-river-cruise/daily-itinerary/ 4: museenkoeln.de | NS-Documentation Centre, retrieved from https://museenkoeln.de/portal/NS-Documentation-Centre 5: KOLUMBA :: Information, retrieved from https://www.kolumba.com/?language=eng&cat_select=1&category=22&preview= 6: More than 100 years of delicious Kölsch beer | FRÜH Gastronomie, retrieved from https://www.frueh-gastronomie.com/history-brewhouse-and-gastronomy-cologne.html 7: About us - eatDOORI, retrieved from https://eatdoori.com/

About the Author

Stephan Drescher

Stephan Drescher, founder of germanytravel.blog, is a German travel expert and insider, providing trusted tips and advice for a perfect trip to Germany. Born & bred German.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cologne

You have probably heard of the Cologne Cathedral, but did you know that Cologne in Germany is also a city with a vivid modern art scene, atmospheric neighbourhoods, perfect for peaceful urban strolls and boutique shopping, but also a place of an amazing food culture?

Our Cologne City Guide will provide you with the necessary travel tips and lead you to the most interesting contemporary and historical spots!

This ultimate travel guide to Cologne will show you all the most beautiful places in Cologne, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Cologne and things to do in Cologne which will help you in planning a trip to Cologne.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Cologne

A few major international airlines like Swiss, Lufthansa and TAP Portugal fly to Cologne Bonn International Airport.

If you want to fly to Cologne from another European city, we recommend looking into budget flights with airlines like WizzAir or EasyJet. Cologne city centre can be easily reached from the airport by either bus or high-speed train.

Trains to Cologne run 24/7, so even if you arrive late at night, you don’t have to worry about getting to the city cheaply and conveniently.

There are several train lines that you can take (eg. S13 and S19 to Düren Bahnhof or RE6 to Minden Hauptbahnhof). The fare for a one-way ticket to Cologne is as low as 2.90 €, and the trains depart every 10-15 minutes from the train station at the airport.

Inter-city trains in Germany are much more expensive, yet very reliable, and it is also possible to get to Cologne by train from eg. Berlin.

Direct trains depart several times a day, the journey from Berlin is approx. 5,5 hours long, and the fares begin at 125 €, which means that in some cases the price for a budget flight might be lower than the train fare!

What to expect in Cologne

Even with its historical vibe, Cologne is a very modern city that attracts many young people and university students from abroad. You will be able to communicate in English with people and at the hotels and restaurants, but expect signs and services to be mostly in German.

Even though all major credit cards are widely accepted, and there are ATMs all over the city, it is safe to have some cash on hand, as some places might have minimum spending before they let you pay with the credit card.

In Europe, most credit cards operate with PIN codes, so make sure your card has issued a PIN number, since businesses may not accept only your signature.

Prices that you see in German shops and restaurants have the VAT and service fees included. That said, it is common to leave a small tip for the services you receive.

Without deciding on a certain tip percentage it is rather common to “round up” and pay your bills to a full Euro amount, leaving a small fee to the staff.

How to get around Cologne

Within the city centre, we recommend getting around on foot. The main attractions in the centre are located close to each other, and walking around is a nice way to experience the unique architecture of the city. If you don’t feel like walking, you can try looking into bicycle rental!

Getting around on a public city bike is quite popular among tourists in Cologne. Radstation Köln offers both bike rental as well as guided city tours on two wheels! Why not give it a try?

Cologne’s public transportation system works very efficiently. Remember to buy tickets, either one-trip (Einzelfahrten) or day ticket (Tages Ticket) in advance or simply purchase KölnCard which will give you unlimited travel on public transportation for 24 or 48 hours and it will guarantee a discounted admission price to some of the city’s main attractions.

Going out of town or travelling with suitcases? Remember that Uber works well in Germany so you might save a couple Euros calling an Uber instead of a taxi! That said, German taxis are very reliable and nowadays most taxis have the option to pay by credit card.

The best time to visit Cologne

If you are going to Cologne with the mere purpose of sightseeing, we recommend visiting in spring (April and May) or Autumn (September to November).

The weather is pleasant, it is not too hot, and the tourist season either hasn’t fully started or has already ended, which means that the main city attractions will be less crowded. In spring, the beer gardens start opening up around the city; spending time and socializing in those is a big part of the city culture.

The beer culture becomes even more vivid in the Fall which is the time of the traditional “Oktoberfests” held every year all over Germany.

For an event like this, you want to be in a Cologne beer hall! It is also worth remembering that when you choose to visit Cologne outside of the summer season, you can expect cheaper accommodation prices, so take note of that if you are travelling on a budget!

Summer in Cologne (from late June to August) is hot, it can even get slightly humid. It is the time of school holidays too, so do expect beautiful and warm weather, but prepare to share your travel experience with other tourists.

Things to do in Cologne Germany

Visit the city’s many museums.

In the city centre, close to the main train station you will find Museum Ludwig – the most popular art museum in the city. It is devoted to modern art and it houses the biggest collection of Pop Art outside of the USA.

The museum also presents carefully curated temporary exhibitions, so prepare at least a few hours to explore the institution and its comprehensive program. If you prefer traditional arts, the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum might be a better choice for you.

It is an impressive institution with European fine art from (among others) the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque period.

If you’re travelling with children, it can be difficult to bring them to a fine art museum, but the Chocolate Museum will for sure be a hit!

The Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum opened in the early 1990s and presents the history of chocolate but also shows some of the contemporary production methods. Loads of tasting-opportunities too!

Shop in the Belgian Quarter

Called “Belgisches Viertel” by the locals, the Belgian Quarter is an incredible place for your Cologne shopping. The boutiques offer high-quality products, present off-mainstream fashion labels and handcrafted jewellery.

Go there both for extraordinary items and special souvenirs, but also for the shopping experience itself! The architecture is very intriguing: prepare for a treasure hunt, as many shops are hidden in historical buildings and building arcades.

Pay a visit to Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral is probably the most well-known landmark of the city and it has been listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1996. The cathedral is stunning architecturally, but it is also a strong religious and cultural symbol.

During World War II the city of Cologne was bombed, and the cathedral severely damaged, but in spite of the bombing, it survived!

Now the Cathedral is open daily; from November through April 6 AM – 7.30 PM, and from May through October 6 AM – 9 PM, but note that opening hours may change around Sundays and important Catholic holidays!

“Meet and Eat” with the locals

If your stomach is craving international dishes, but you want to enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city, we recommend paying a visit to the weekly Cologne Street Food!

Every Thursday, between 4 – 9 PM “Meet and Eat Markt” at Kölner Rudolfplatz pops up.

The event is popular among tourists and locals, so even with an international food selection, you are in for a very authentic experience.

The market does not only offer food (the organizers are known for being very selective with their vendors!) but also presents stalls selling locally made goods, turning the event into a market for both food a nd unique handcrafts alike.

Count the love locks on Hohenzollern Bridge

Experts today estimate that the weight of padlocks hung on Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne exceeds two tonnes!

Couples from the city as well as tourists pilgrim to Hohenzollern Brücke (as it is called in German) to declare and seal their love.

On the magnificent bridge over the Rhine River, you will not only find regular padlocks but also custom made, sometimes engraved, designer love-locks and even bicycle chains – all without a key, as the key is supposed to be thrown into the river, for the sealed love-lock never to be unlocked again.

What to eat in Cologne

Have you ever heard of “Heaven and Earth”? The German name of the dish is “Himmel und Erde” and its main ingredients are potatoes (coming from the ground) and apples (coming from the “sky/heaven”).

The potato mash is distinct for its fruity sweetness, and it is mostly served with blood sausage (black pudding) and fried onion. The apples are either mixed in the potato mash itself or added on top in form of a sauce.

A very affordable, traditional snack in Cologne is the “Mettbrötchen”. It is a bun served with raw pork sausage meat, topped with chopped raw onions and seasoned with simple spices.

The thought of having raw pork chop might be challenging, but you will see that people in Cologne can eat Mettbrötchen for all of the day’s meals. Do give it a try, and you’ll feel like a local!

It’s wrong to think that all traditional dishes in Cologne include meat! “Halber Hahn” which directly translates to “half a rooster” is a meat-free open sandwich made of a thick slice of gouda cheese arranged on rye bread, topped with raw onions and/or chives.

In bars and pubs around town, it is common to be served a plate with all the ingredients, and the customer can build their sandwich on their own.

Where to stay in Cologne

The Old Town area is a great neighbourhood to stay in Cologne for both sightseeing and shopping. Everything is conveniently located in the area, and that also includes the railway station!

Centrally located hotels may not be suitable for budget travellers, so if you need to watch your spendings, try looking for an Airbnb or check into a small, family run Bed and Breakfast.

If you are visiting town looking for things to do in Cologne at night, staying in Ringe (the area between Friesenplatz and Rudolfplatz) is recommended. The neighbourhood is famous for its nightlife with many bars, pubs and lesser known, yet very atmospheric local breweries.

If you are visiting Cologne on a budget, try booking an Airbnb in Zülpischer Platz, known as “the student area”. It is a vibrant and interesting neighbourhood with pubs and bars that will serve you drinks at lower prices than other places in town!

Tours to do in Cologne

In a city with a rich and unique beer culture like the one of Cologne, we recommend joining a Brew House Walking Tour . Led by a local, English-speaking tour guide, you will be introduced to four traditional pubs in the old town and learn about the brewing processes and the local beer culture.

Only spending a weekend in Cologne Germany? Make sure to check out all the main city attractions by booking a private tour of Cologne City Highlights .

Led by an English-speaking guide, you will see the Cologne Cathedral as well as some of the other, well-known Romanesque churches like the Great St. Martin Church. A Cologne hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the price, and you will travel around conveniently in a mini-van.

Day trips from Cologne

There are less than 30 kilometres from Cologne to Bonn, a 2000 years old city, very well known for the Beethoven House, now a museum as well as a cultural memorial of the composer’s birthplace.

The city used to serve as the capital of West Germany after World War II, and even today Bonn houses several ministries.

In Bonn, you will also find “Museumsmeile” – a group of five museums dedicated to natural history, science, technology and art! With a wide palette of things to do, a day trip to Bonn is highly recommended especially for travellers with children!

Recommend budget tours in Cologne

• Skip the Line: Hard Rock Cafe Cologne Including Meal
• Small-Group Bike Tour of Cologne with Guide
• Rhine River Evening Panorama Cruise in Cologne
• The Kölsch Guys Brew House Walking Tour in Cologne
• Farina Fragrance Museum in Cologne Admission Ticket
• Cologne Rhine River Dinner Cruise
• Cologne Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Rhine River Sightseeing Cruise
• Pub Crawl Cologne: Experience Unique Pub Crawl Moments in Cologne
• Cologne Christmas Lights guided bike tour
• The Chocolate Museum Cologne Entrance Ticket
• Bonn City Private Tour (Day trip from Cologne)

Get your guide is a Great company, that often offers heavily discounted tours! Check out a few options below:

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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The Perfect 1 to 2 Days in Cologne Itinerary

Last Updated on February 19, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect 1 or 2 days in Cologne itinerary can be a bit difficult when you consider al there is to do in this lovely city. Situated in western Germany you’ll find Cologne. Pronounced “Köln” in German, this charming city is a lesser-visited destination for tourists.

Most visitors to Germany flock to Munich or Berlin , leaving Cologne as a great destination for anyone wanting the history, food, and culture that Germany is famous for while avoiding the pressing crowds of larger cities.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Cologne?

If you just want to visit the highlights or have a limited amount of time in Germany, one day in Cologne will be enough to get a good sense of what the city has to offer. You can explore the riverfront, walk through the Old Town, and visit the famous Cologne Cathedral all within a few hours. 

If you want to dive deeper into the city’s history and culture, 2 days are great too. More than one day will allow you more time to take in the city at your own pace. You can spread out your visits to museums and even have some free time to relax in local parks or along the River Rhine and get a bit outside the tourist center of Cologne.

Cologne is a city that is very worth exploring on foot. When deciding how many days to spend in Cologne, take a look at everything there is to do then choose what you’re most interested in. Without a doubt, you’ll come away with an itinerary that suits your traveling goals. 

Getting To & Around Cologne

There are two main ways you’ll arrive in Cologne: by train or plane. If you’re flying into the city, you’ll land at the Cologne Bonn Airport. From there you can take a taxi, private transfer , rideshare, or train.

There is a train station at the airport that takes visitors directly to the city center for less than five euros, but this transport is free if you have the KolnCard . The ride from the airport to the city is 10 to 15 minutes.

If you’re arriving by train (you can view train schedules here ), you will exit the train station in the center of the city. From here, you can either walk or call a taxi to reach your accommodation. 

Cologne is a very walkable city. If you only have 1 day, you likely won’t even need to use the public transit system. Most of the main highlights are centrally located and walking between them also gives you more opportunity to experience as much of the city as possible if you’re trying to see Cologne in 1 day without haveing to hop on a tram or bus.

Should you plan to see Cologne in 2 days, and want to use public transit, consider getting the 24 or 48 hours KolnCard. This grants its holders free tickets on public transport throughout the city, including to and from the airport.

1 to 2-Day Cologne Itinerary

No matter how long you have to spend in Cologne, here’s what you should try to see to make your trip memorable. 

Day 1 – Cologne Cathedral, Museum Ludwig, Old Market & More

Visit the cologne cathedral.

When you arrive for your first day in Cologne, you’ll quickly notice a towering Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline. This is the Cologne Cathedral, and the first place you should visit while exploring the city.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, construction on the cathedral began in 1248. It was completed in several disparate stages, so it wasn’t complete until 1880.

This intricately-designed Gothic cathedral is as impressive inside as it is outside. Enter the cathedral to take in the historic stained glass windows and tall arches that make up the main hall.

The Cologne Cathedral is open for tourists and free to visit. Make sure to check the cathedral’s website prior to visiting as special events and masses can change when the cathedral is open to visitors. 

To learn more about the history of the Cathedral and Cologne, you should consider going on this walking tour of the Old Town of Cologne.

Explore Museum Ludwig

Home to one of the largest collections of Picasso works in the world, Museum Ludwig is the best art museum to visit if you are trying to see Cologne in 1 day.

The permanent exhibit holds Europe’s largest Pop Art collection, the third largest Picasso collection in the world, and one of the pinnacle exhibitions of German Expressionism. It’s an impressive collection of 20th and 21st-century art that began in 1976 with a mere 350 pieces of modern art that was gifted by private citizens.

There is always a special exhibition running, so make sure to see what’s happening during your visit. Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online and provide access to both the permanent and special collections. 

Those who would rather visit a different museum may also be interested inn the EL-DE Haus. This is the former Gestapo headquarters in the city and is a harrowing place to visit, but important to understanding that darker parts of Cologne’s more recent history.

Walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge

This triple-arch bridge has seen many versions of itself throughout Cologne’s history. The original bridge was a railway and road, but was destroyed in 1945. When it was rebuilt, it was designed for foot traffic and trains only.

It sees more than 1,200 trains every day, connecting two major train stations in the city. Spend some time during your visit to Cologne to walk across the bridge. The Cologne Cathedral stands tall on one side, giving you a nice view of the city with the bridge and cathedral.

As you cross the bridge, you might notice love padlocks–famous throughout Italy and in Paris. It’s estimated there are around 500,000 locks attached to the bridge, weighing more than 15 tons. 

Wander through the Old Market

Cologne’s Old Town is a charming and quaint section of the city you’ll want to explore. Its narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings make it a favorite place for tourists to stop for lunch or dinner or an afternoon snack.

Alter Markt and Heumarkt are the two main attractions for both residents and visitors. These markets sell hand-crafted artwork and other local goods. Keep an eye out for the colorful buildings meshed with gothic architecture.

This neighbourhood is a great place to enjoy dinner or explore the city’s nightlife by visiting local pubs and breweries. You can also consider going on a brewery tour to learn more about the famous Kölsch beer (Cologne’s local beer) and visit a traditional brauhaus or enjoy a food tour.

Walk along the Rhine River

For a different way of exploring Cologne, consider seeing it from the River Rhine. Take a boat tour or simple walk along the paved riverfront path to enjoy the scenery.

Cologne is the largest city on the River Rhine, the longest river in Germany, and one of the most traveled waterways in the world. Enjoy the sunset here or stop for an afternoon picnic.

The river path heads past Old Town and connects with the Hohenzollern Bridge, making it easy to see several highlights of Cologne within a small distance.

For a boat trip on the river, you can opt for a dinner cruise or an afternoon tour that details the city’s unique history while seeing its landmarks from water including a view of the cathedral.

Day 2 – Cologne Chocolate Museum, Botanical Gardens, Sy Gareon Church & More

Visit the cologne chocolate museum.

When you think of cities and countries in Europe that are famous for chocolate, you most likely imagine places like Bruges in Belgium and Zurich in Switzerland . Well, Germany has a delicious chocolate scene too and a visit to the Cologne Chocolate Museum captures it all.

This museum is a great place to visit if you have 2 days in Cologne. You’ll learn about the entire chocolate-making process, from the cocoa plantation to the chocolate factory.

The tour starts at a large model cocoa tree then guides you through a tropical greenhouse before continuing on your journey through the history of chocolate in Germany.

The museum is a functioning chocolate factory, producing its own chocolate, and has glass-sided machines so visitors can peek in to see the chocolate creation process.

The museum is only closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly. You can buy entry tickets here.

Walk through the Botanical Garden of Cologne

If you’re wondering what to see in Cologne over 2 days, the Botanical Garden of Cologne should be on your list. This expensive and awe-inspiring garden covers 11.5 hectares and houses more than 10,000 species of plants.

There are ponds, flowers, fountains, and walking trails for a quiet afternoon spent within nature, but tucked inside a bustling city. The garden is open year-round from 8 AM to dusk, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer when the entire garden is in full bloom.

Plan to spend anywhere from 2 to 3 hours visiting the garden to allow yourself plenty of time to wander the space and enjoy its sites. 

Explore St. Gereon Church

The St. Gereon Church will stand out because of its odd shape. This minor basilica boasts a nave that is covered by a decagonal oval dome and was completed on the remains of Roman walls.

This is the largest dome constructed in the West between the 6th century and 15th century. It’s one of the twelve Romanesque churches that Cologne is famous for and frequently compared to the world-renowned Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey and the Duomo in Florence, Italy .

The church is believed to have been built on the grave of St. Gereon, a Roman officer who was killed for his faith. It’s an impressive feat of architecture, both at the time it was built and today. Inside, the dome is painted red with golden ornaments.

Relax in Rheinpark  

With 40 hectares of land, the Rheinpark is the largest in Cologne and offers its visitors plenty of space to roam or relax. There are ponds, flower gardens, pathways, courts, and large grass lawns where you can enjoy a sunny afternoon.

If you’re traveling with kids, the park has several playgrounds and a children’s train that runs throughout the park. During your visit to the park, take a ride on the Cologne Rhine Cable Car. This cable car takes riders up to get a panoramic view of the River Rhine and Cologne.

There is also a thermal spa with relaxing wellness treatments and baths. Close your Cologne itinerary with a visit to Rheinpark. 

Where to Stay in Cologne

Motel One Köln-Neumarkt – This 3-star hotel is a great place to base yourself in Cologne. Filled with hip decor and great rooms, it has an excellent central location and plenty of wonderful amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Savoy Hotel – Those looking for a bit of luxury in Cologne will love this hip hotel in the city centre. Perfectly located for seeing all this German city has to offer, they have a number of plush rooms on offer and there is also a restaurant/bar on site.

CGN Apartments – Altstadt – If you’re after your own space while staying in Cologne, then this cosy 1-bedroom apartment is an excellent option. It is fully furnished and well-equipped with everything you may need for your stay along with having a great location for exploring the city.

Die Wohngemeinschaft – This hostel is an excellent choice if you’re travelling on a tight budget or if you want a great social atmosphere. They offer both dorm beds and private room options, are very well-located and there is also an on-site cafe/bar.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cologne hotels!

Cologne is full of historical attractions and modern highlights that make the city what it is today. Whether you have one or two days, you will have a jam-packed visit to this German city. 

Are you planning to visit Cologne? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

Thank you for the information. Very well written, and complete description of what to see. Planning on being there next October for 2 days.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Cologne

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

This very old cathedral city on the river Rhine is one of the most important commercial and cultural centers in western Germany. Cologne (Köln in German) is famous for its 12 great Romanesque churches , especially the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. Best of all for visitors to the city, they're all an easy walk from the historic Old Town.

Cologne can trace its roots all the way back to the first century CE, when it was established as a Roman provincial capital and military stronghold. In fact, one of its most appealing features for tourists is that it retains elements from all the various periods of its long history.

Among its many tourist attractions are Roman remains, medieval churches, Baroque palaces, and museums that reflect such diverse subjects as art and literature, as well as darker times in the mid-20th century. Numerous Cologne attractions have also sprung up that celebrate the various products for which it is known, including fragrances, mustard, and chocolate.

Cologne's importance never really slowed, and today the city remains one of Germany's most important cultural centers. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, as well as numerous art and entertainment facilities, including more than 100 galleries and at least three dozen museums. It's also a popular place to visit for shopping, especially along pedestrian-friendly streets such as Hohe Straße and Schildergasse.

To ensure you make the most of your sightseeing time, be sure to read through our list of the top attractions and fun things to do in Cologne.

See also: Where to Stay in Cologne

1. Visit Majestic Cologne Cathedral

2. explore historic old town cologne, 3. cologne city hall (rathaus), 4. hop aboard a rhine river cruise, 5. the wallraf-richartz & ludwig museums, 6. ns documentation centre of the city of cologne, 7. monkey around at cologne zoological gardens, 8. get a bird's-eye view of cologne from a cable car, 9. satisfy your sweet tooth at the cologne chocolate museum, 10. flora and botanical garden, 11. the roman-germanic museum, 12. take a trip to brühl to see augustusburg and falkenlust palaces, 13. st. gereon's basilica, 14. altenberg cathedral, 15. get your design fix at the museum of applied art, where to stay in cologne for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in cologne, cologne, germany - climate chart, more must-see destinations near cologne.

Located near the left bank of the Rhine, Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom ) is the city's towering landmark. Officially called the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Mary (Hohe Domkirche Sankt Petrus), this stunning edifice is a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

One of the largest cathedrals in Europe, it was started in 1248 and is considered the most ambitious building project of the Middle Ages. As impressive as its 157-meter-tall twin towers is the cathedral's incredible interior, a must-see when visiting this bustling city.

Covering an area of 6,166 square meters, its soaring roof supported by 56 pillars, the cathedral is filled with treasures. These include the 12th-century Reliquary of the Three Kings created by local goldsmiths; the famous relief of the Adoration of the Kings from 1440; and the impressive Treasure Chamber , with precious objects that include ancient reliquaries and manuscripts.

Panoramic views from the south tower are reached by more than 500 steps that pass the cathedral's famous bells, which are so loud that ear protection is provided on Sundays. A variety of excellent English-language guided tours are available that include the interior, as well as the roof of the structure.

Visitors are also welcome to attend a varied program of events, including concerts and services; be sure to check the cathedral's website for closures prior to arrival.

Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Cologne, Germany

Official site: www.koelner-dom.de/en/

As you explore the numerous historic churches and museums of Cologne's city center (Innenstadt), you'll crisscross the city's lovely Old Town (Altstadt). In addition to old churches such as Great St. Martin , you'll find yourself traversing countless alleys lined with traditional old houses, many now home to boutique shops, galleries, cafés, and restaurants.

And with its many pleasant paths along the Rhine, you'll find ample opportunity to enjoy great views as you plan your route through this ancient city. You'll also find yourself in awe of the countless monuments and fountains that adorn the area.

You'll also want to spend a little time exploring the Old Town's Archaeological Zone with its many ancient ruins and artifacts. These include the Roman-era ruins of the Praetorium, or Governor's Palace, that was unearthed under the City Hall, as well as a section of a nearly 2,000-year-old Roman sewage system.

A particular highlight of the city's Old Town area is Cologne's historic City Hall, the Kölner Rathaus, or Stadt Köln. Built in 1573 and the oldest such public building in Germany, it boasts a rich history dating back more than 900 years.

As the focal point of the ruling classes during medieval times, the building you see today reflects a number of different architectural influences. These include the 14th-century main building, the 15th-century tower, and a Renaissance-style loggia and cloister. Even the 20th-century influences are pleasing, as seen in the atrium.

Other City Hall highlights include the Hansasaal, or Hanseatic Hall, with its Gothic figures of eight prophets and nine "good heroes" (pagan, Jewish, and Christian). Also of note is its sonorous carillon that plays three times each day.

Address: Rathauspl. 2, 50667, Cologne, Germany

It would be a shame to visit this beautiful city without viewing it and its nearby river scenery from a boat on the Rhine. On a one-hour Cologne Sightseeing Cruise, you'll get unparalleled views of the most important Cologne landmarks, including the twin-spires of Cologne Cathedral, the picturesque buildings of the Old Town, and the Hohenzollern Bridge.

One of the most popular things to do in Cologne at night is the Rhine River Evening Panorama Cruise, a leisurely two-hour excursion to see the city aglow with lights. You can even enjoy the views as you savor regional specialties from a buffet on board the three-hour Cologne Rhine River Dinner Cruise.

To see even more of the Rhine Valley, join a Rhine River Cruise to Königswinter or spend an entire day exploring the Rhine and Mosel rivers and their charming towns with a hop-on hop-off KD Rhine Pass from Cologne.

Art lovers will want to visit both the Wallraf-Richartz Museum and the Ludwig Museum when in Cologne. Housed in one of the city's newer architectural structures, these two excellent galleries cover a wide range of European paintings to view. Of particular note are works by Rembrandt, Manet, Renoir, Leibl, Liebermann, and Slevogt.

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is especially strong in the work of the Cologne school, while the Ludwig focuses on modern and contemporary painting.

In the same building is the Agfa-Foto-Historama with its displays of photographs and cameras dating back to 1840. Also of interest is Kolumba , the art museum of the Archdiocese of Cologne, notable for its art and antiquities.

Address: Obenmarspforten 40, 50667, Cologne, Germany

Official site: www.wallraf.museum/en

Those with an interest in learning more about life under the Nazi regime and its aftermath will want to visit the NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne (NS-Dokumentationszentrum der Stadt Köln). This important memorial gives an unvarnished account of National Socialist (Nazi) horrors, especially as they related to the citizens of Cologne.

A combination memorial site, interactive museum, and research facility, the center - sometimes referred to simply as NSDOK - is set in the actual building where prisoners were held by the Gestapo. Its most chilling experience is entering the actual prison cells in the basement with the writing of prisoners scratched into the walls.

The center attempts to put a human face on the effects of the police state on both Germans and occupied countries, with individual stories. It also focuses on the long aftermath of the Nazi era and the efforts to bring those responsible for its atrocities to justice. English-language guided tours are available.

Address: Appellhofplatz 23-25, Cologne, Germany

Official site: https://museenkoeln.de/ns-dokumentationszentrum/default.aspx?s=315

Founded in 1860, Cologne Zoo (Kölner Zoologischer Garten) is one of Germany's oldest zoological gardens. Evidence of its age can be seen in its fine collection of 19th-century menagerie buildings, including its Moorish-style elephant house and an old birdhouse that's now home to chimps, and resembles a traditional Russian church.

Other highlights include Ape Island with its mock rainforest, a well-stocked aquarium, and an excellent big cat enclosure. There's also a unique biotope habitat, where visitors can view the animals through glass without bars.

One of the most appealing features of the zoo is that you can see its history and attitudes toward zoos unfold over the years, with modern facilities retrofitted into historic buildings of the original menagerie.

Address: Riehler Str. 173, 50735, Cologne, Germany

Official site: www.koelnerzoo.de/en/home-en

Since its establishment in 1957 as the first European cable car to cross a river – in this case, the Rhine – the Cologne cable car (Rhein-Seilbahn) has carried millions of passengers. The views are, of course, the big draw, particularly those of the Old Town and Cologne Cathedral .

For more great views, a visit to Cologne Telecommunications Tower is worthwhile. Located northwest of Cologne's Old Town, Colonius, as it's known locally, is 243 meters high with a superb viewing platform and a revolving restaurant. KölnTriangle , a striking contemporary building on Ottoplatz, also has a panoramic viewing platform.

Address: Riehler Straße 180, 50735, Cologne, Germany

Official site: www.koelner-seilbahn.de/en/

The Cologne Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum) can trace its roots to 1972, when Hans Imhoff acquired the Stollwerck chocolate factory. What he discovered there was a rubbish container filled with broken machinery, packaging material, and other remnants of chocolate manufacturing.

Thus inspired, he began preserving and restoring these as the basis for the museum. Today, exhibits follow the entire chocolate-making process from bean to the finished packaged product. Highlights include interactive displays, collections of molds, antique chocolate boxes and wrappers, plus free samples from the chocolate fountain.

There's even a working production line where you can watch chocolates being made. Better still, you can even design your own chocolate bar to take home with you. Guided tours are available.

Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50678 Cologne, Germany

Official site: www.schokoladenmuseum.de/discover-experience/?lang=en

Established in the 19th century near the riverbank in Riehl, a northern district of Cologne, Flora and Botanical Garden (Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln) covers 11.5 hectares and is home to more than 10,000 species of plants.

You can stroll through this public park to learn about the plants, or simply to enjoy the beautiful and colorful flowers arranged in formal beds throughout the growing season. Open all year-round, the tropical settings of the greenhouses and the Palm House are delightful, whatever the season.

Serving as an elegant backdrop to the gardens is The Flora, a historic building that hosts flower shows, concerts, and events.

Address: Amsterdamer Straße 34, Cologne, Germany

Just a few minutes' walk from Cologne Cathedral , the Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum) offers a fascinating insight into the city's rich archaeological heritage from the Paleolithic period to the early Middle Ages.

Exhibits of interest are the Dionysus Mosaic dating from the 2nd century and the 15-meter-high funerary monument of Poblicius from the 1st century; both were discovered during excavations in the city. The museum also displays other mosaics, Roman glass, domestic pottery and sculpture, and Roman and Germanic jewelry.

Address: Roncalliplatz 4, D-50667 Cologne, Germany

Official site: https://roemisch-germanisches-museum.de/Homepage

In the picturesque town of Brühl , an easy 15 kilometers drive south of Cologne, stands Schloss Augustusburg. This elegant 18th-century palace is famous as the home of the Archbishop of Cologne.

Sumptuously decorated and furnished, this charming Late Baroque/Rococo palace is worth a visit for its magnificent staircase hall. Other highlights include its large park, used for open-air concerts and festivals. Sharing the same park is Falkenlust Palace, built in 1740 and an important part of this World Heritage site.

Brühl is also home to several museums and historic sites, including one dedicated to surrealist artist Max Ernst, as well as Augustusburg Castle and Castle Falkenplatz .

Kids will enjoy visiting Phantasialand , one of the largest theme parks in Europe. Highlights include a cable car, a Viking boat trip, a monorail, and a reproduction of old Berlin.

Address: Schlosstrasse 6, D-50321 Brühl, Germany

Official site: www.schlossbruehl.de/en_home

Romanesque St. Gereon's Basilica (Basilika Sankt Gereon) is perhaps Cologne's most unusual church. It was built on the site of a former 7th-century church, which was itself constructed in the 12th century on a 10-sided domed structure dating from Roman times and which is still visible.

Dedicated to Saint Gereon, this Roman Catholic church is a visually appealing structure and boasts an unusually long choir. Also of note are its many medieval murals, mosaics, and ancient relics.

Address: Gereonskloster 2, 50670, Cologne, Germany

Just six kilometers away from its famous cousin in Cologne, Altenberg Cathedral (Altenberger Dom) is one of the finest examples of Early Gothic architecture in Rhineland. Also known as the Bergischer Dom, this impressive church was built in 1259, and its richly furnished interior includes Gothic stained glass and many tombs of princes and abbots.

Although not strictly speaking a formal cathedral, as no bishop has ever sat here, it earned the title thanks to its imposing dimensions and is unique in Europe in that both Protestant and Catholic congregations share it.

Address: Eugen-Heinen-Platz 2, 51519 Odenthal, Germany

Southwest of Cologne Cathedral is the Museum of Applied Art (Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln), or MAKK. One of the city's "newer" museums, it was founded in 1888 and is well regarded for its fine collection of more than 100,000 pieces of applied and decorative art from the medieval period onwards.

Other important collections include jewelry, furniture, porcelain, arms, and armor. It also features a number of interesting architectural exhibits.

Address: An der Rechtschule, D-50667 Cologne, Germany

Official site: https://makk.de/Start

For first-time visitors to the city, the best place to stay is Cologne's Old Town. Here, you can easily explore magnificent Cologne Cathedral, one of 12 Romanesque churches in the city that are within an easy walk. You'll also be close to the Rhine River, which cuts through the city. The following hotels are close to the Old Town and are worth checking out:

Luxury Hotels:

• Popular for its views of Cologne Cathedral and just minutes from Cologne Central Station, the Excelsior Hotel Ernst offers large, sumptuously decorated rooms and suites along with a modern spa and large gym.
• Also handy for those arriving via rail, the Savoy Hotel offers bright, quirky décor and mood lighting in its large rooms as well as throughout its public spaces.
• Although located on the opposite bank of the Rhine, the large rooms of the Hyatt Regency Cologne boast superb views of both the river and cathedral, as do the indoor pool and sunbathing deck.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Popular for its large bathrooms and intimate size, the modern, boutique-style Stern am Rathaus boasts friendly staff and one of the city's best breakfasts.
• Another small hotel worth considering is Hotel Domstern , which offers guests hearty breakfasts and dedicated parking.
• Also popular is the refurbished CityClass Hotel Residence am Dom , with its ultra-modern décor and furniture.

Budget Hotels:

• Affordable and an easy walk from Cologne Cathedral, Hotel Engelbertz is popular for tourists wanting a traditional German-style hotel experience: small, intimate, and family-run.
• Other great budget choices in the Old Town include Ibis Koeln Am Dom , with its fun lounge overlooking the cathedral square; and the family-run Hotel Im Kupferkessel , with its cozy, brightly-painted rooms and a homey dining area.

Cologne is well situated for exploring this interesting part of western Germany. It is north of Bonn and south of Düsseldorf , two other attractive cities in the Rhine Valley . Farther to the south, Koblenz is at the point where the Rhine meets the Mosel .

Germany's westernmost city of Aachen is close to the borders of both Belgium and the Netherlands, and from here, you can easily reach the Dutch city of Maastricht and the Belgian city of Liège .

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A Complete Travel Guide To Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is a city that has it all – from stunning architecture to delicious cuisine and everything in between. In this Cologne travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, where to eat, the best places to stay, the best time to visit and more. Whether you’re looking for sightseeing, shopping, or just relaxing by the Rhine River, there is plenty to do in this historic city. Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful cities and there is definitely no shortage of attractions, from its famous cathedral to its numerous museums and galleries. So, if you are planning a trip to Cologne, Germany, this is the ultimate guide for you!

Table of Contents

• 1.0.1 Book train tickets to Cologne
• 2 How to Get Around the City
• 3.0.0.1 Explore more hotels in Cologne
• 4.1 Cologne Cathedral
• 4.2 Hohenzollern Bridge
• 4.3 Cologne Triangle (KölnTriangle)
• 4.4 Farina Fragrance Museum
• 4.5 Chocolate Museum Cologne
• 4.6 More Museums to Visit
• 4.7 Great St. Martin Church
• 4.8 Rhine Promenade
• 4.9 Alter Markt – Cologne Old Town
• 4.10.1 Düsseldorf
• 4.10.2 Book train tickets to Düsseldorf
• 4.10.3 Bonn
• 4.10.4 Book train tickets to Bonn
• 4.10.5 Linz am Rhein
• 4.10.6 Aachen
• 4.10.7 Book train tickets to Aachen
• 4.10.8 Heidelberg
• 4.10.9 Book train tickets to Heidelberg
• 4.10.10 Monschau
• 5.1 Restaurants in Cologne
• 5.2 Bars in Cologne
• 5.3 Cafes in Cologne
• 6.0.1 A Guide to Visiting the Christmas Markets in Cologne, Germany

How to Get to Cologne, Germany

Cologne conveniently has its own international airport, Cologne Bonn Airport, which makes traveling to Cologne as easy as choosing your airline and booking a flight. Alternatively, Frankfurt and Düsseldorf are both two cities located close to Cologne with international airports that offer flights from a variety of airlines. If you choose to fly into one of the nearby cities, taking a bus or a train is a great option to get to Cologne. The train ride from Düsseldorf to Cologne takes between 30-40 minutes and it takes around an hour and a half when traveling from Frankfurt.

Book train tickets to Cologne

How to Get Around the City

When it comes to transportation in Cologne, you have several options available to help you get around the city. First off, Cologne is uniquely designed and walkable, so you can explore the city at your own pace either on foot or by bike. Cologne also has an extensive public transport network, making public transportation easy and affordable. If you’re visiting Cologne for more than one day then it might be worthwhile to buy the KölnCard , which includes free public transportation and up to 50% off many museums, restaurants and more. Uber, taxis, and scooters are also convenient ways to get around within the city if you don’t mind paying a little extra. In addition, many hotels offer free parking so visitors don’t have to worry about paying parking fees during their stay, in the case that they decide to rent a car.

Where To Stay in Cologne, Germany

If you’re planning a trip to Cologne, Germany, there are a few things that you should know in order to make the best possible decision. First and foremost, the city is divided by the Rhine River. The old town, as well as most attractions, eateries and museums, are situated on the left (west side of the river), while the right (east side) looks and feels more modern and offers a grand vista of the city. There are a variety of accommodation options available, from hostels and budget hotels to luxury apartments and hotels.

Hyatt Regency Cologne: Luxurious hotel within walking distance of the cathedral and museums via the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge. The view of the city from the rooms is unmatched. 

Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom: Five-star hotel located just steps from Cologne Cathedral. If you’re looking for upscale amenities and a prime location then this is the right hotel for you.

Stern am Rathaus: Located right in the heart of the city, Stern am Rathaus has a friendly and welcoming staff, a modern design and a large breakfast selection.

Statthaus – Statt Hotel: Located just a ten-minute walking distance from Cologne Cathedral, Statthaus offers various-sized apartments to accommodate families or groups of friends.

Legend Hotel: A modern and new boutique hotel in the center of Cologne’s historic Old Town.

Apartment Miro: If you’re looking for a homely vibe, then Apartment Miro is it. Centrally located yet quiet and cozy enough to feel like a home away from home.

Explore more hotels in Cologne

The best things to do in cologne.

Cologne has something for everyone – whether you’re interested in history or artistry, shopping or sports – so there’s sure to be a sightseeing or tour opportunity that appeals to your interests. You can even take guided tours around some of Cologne’s more offbeat neighborhoods if you want an extra insider tip on where best to explore!

Cologne Cathedral

When it comes to exploring Cologne, there is simply no better place to start then at the imposing Cologne Cathedral. This UNESCO heritage site is a must-see for visitors of the city. Not only is it beautiful to look at, but its history is interesting as well. Dating back to the 8th century AD, this cathedral has seen many changes and expansions over its lifetime. Take in all of the intricate details on display inside the cathedral before making your way up to the top. Climbing up to the top by stairs is no easy task – as there is no elevator and there are a total of 533 stairs – but the view is worth every step up!

Hohenzollern Bridge

After Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge is perhaps the second most iconic landmark of the city. Built in the late 19th century, the bridge was originally built to facilitate both rail and road traffic, however, after its reconstruction, the bridge was only open to rail and pedestrian traffic. Today, the bridge is a popular tourist spot where many couples celebrate their love for each other by placing a lock on the rails of the bridge.

Cologne Triangle (KölnTriangle)

KölnTriangle, or Cologne Triangle, is an observation deck standing at 103 meters tall that gives visitors one of the most incredible 360-degree views of the city. Visitors can observe this German metropolis from an innovative “window in the sky” and marvel at great views of the Rhine river and its surroundings. A 5 euro ticket will take you up the tower to the observation deck and you can take the lift or take the stairs and climb up to the top. On a clear day, the views from the top can span up to 80 km.

Farina Fragrance Museum

Farina Fragrance Museum dates back to 1723, making it the oldest perfume factory in existence. It offers a detailed look into the production of Eau de Cologne, including distillation apparatus and historical documents. Learn about the imitations and forgeries of Eau de Cologne that appeared on the market and how Farina Eau de Cologne has changed over time. Sample the original Eau de Cologne and don’t forget to check out their store as well. Tickets can be bought in person or via their website .

Chocolate Museum Cologne

The Chocolate Museum is the perfect destination if you’re a chocolate connoisseur. Here you’ll be able to experience hands-on learning and explore the history of chocolate and how it is made. Get up close to cocoa plants and understand the process of harvesting and manufacturing of the world’s best and most delicious chocolates. Along the journey, indulge in free samples and stock up on treats for your family and friends at the two gift shops located at the museum, which offer an array of gift ideas.

More Museums to Visit

Romano-Germanic Museum: Also known as Römisch Germanisches Museum, this archaeological museum houses Roman artifacts dating back to Roman settlements that used to reside in modern-day Cologne.

Wallraf Richartz Museum: This museum is home to some incredible art pieces from medieval times to the early twentieth century, making it a must-see for art history buffs.

Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum:   Ethnographic Museum that offers various interactive exhibitions and demonstrations.

Museum Ludwig: Modern art museum that includes work from Pop Art, Surrealism and Abstract. Holds famous pieces by Picasso, Andy Warhol and more.

Schnütgen Museum: Art museum that is devoted to Christian pieces as well as prints and textiles from the medieval period up to the modern period.

Kolumba – Kolumba is one of the oldest museums in the city and it is home to modern and classic Christian artworks.

Great St. Martin Church

The Great St. Martin has been a prominent part of the Cologne skyline since the Middle Ages. The structures and foundations of the old warehouses still remain and can be seen around the church. Parts of the Roman walls are also visible, providing a unique look into the past. The minimalist furnishings and stone floors add to the clean and sophisticated atmosphere of this building. Once you have explored the intricacies of the structure, head down to their basement (1€ entrance fee) to witness some ancient Roman ruins.

Rhine Promenade

The Rhine Promenade is one of the most popular places to take a stroll in the city. It extends from the Zoo Bridge to the Severin Bridge and is frequented by people of all age groups – from walkers and skaters to families with children. It is the perfect place to relax and take in the beautiful music of the lapping river and the picturesque views of the city’s skyline. Along the riverside promenade, there are plenty of food and beverage outlets ranging from pubs, bars and restaurants to cafés, stalls and kiosks, where you can stop and enjoy a feast with friends and family. For an entirely different type of experience take a boat ride on the Rhine River during your stay in Cologne!

Alter Markt – Cologne Old Town

If you’re interested in learning more about Cologne’s history, then consider touring the quaint cobblestone alleys of old downtown otherwise known as Alter Markt. This area was once home to marketplaces and bustling shops – an incredible glimpse into Cologne’s past. And if shopping isn’t your thing, then head over to one of the many traditional restaurants in this area for some delicious German cuisine. Be sure to also stroll by Fischmarkt, a charming square in the old town situated along the banks of the Rhine River, featuring colorful old houses, a fountain and outdoor cafes.

Day Trips from Cologne

Düsseldorf is located just 30 minutes away from Cologne and offers a variety of attractions to explore. Visit the Rhine Towers for great views, go shopping along Königsallee or experience the traditional “Altstadt” (Old Town) with its cobblestone streets and many restaurants.

Book train tickets to Düsseldorf

Also a half hour by train from Cologne, Bonn makes a great choice if you’re looking for some culture and history. Spend your time viewing art galleries, exploring ancient castles or enjoying outdoor activities along the Rhine River. Be sure to visit Beethoven’s birthplace where you can take a guided tour through his former home.

Book train tickets to Bonn

Linz am Rhein

Linz am Rhein is a timeless village on the Rhine River that is full of quaint charm and beauty. Just under an hour away from Cologne, It is the perfect place to take a leisurely day trip and wander through its cobblestoned streets, admiring its historic architecture such as half-timbered houses and seeing the sights of the local area as they have been preserved in time. From markets and vineyards to churches and monuments, you’ll find something to admire and appreciate in every corner of this charming village.

Aachen is well known for its spas, beautiful churches and impressive architectural monuments including the Cathedral UNESCO World Heritage Site and Carolus Thermen Spa, one of Europe’s oldest spa complexes dating back over 2 millennia! It is also famous for producing authentic Aachener Printen which is a type of biscuit made using honey spice mix which makes it unique compared to other cities in Germany.

Book train tickets to Aachen

Situated at the edge of Odenwald forest around 2.5 hours away from Cologne, this lovely university town boasts old-world charm reminiscent of European cities such as Amsterdam or Paris. Take a leisurely stroll through Philosopher’s Walk also known as Schulgasse Street while admiring Baroque-style architecture on display all throughout old quarters before heading up to Heidelberg Palace where you’ll have a captivating view overlooking Neckar Valley below.

Book train tickets to Heidelberg

Finally, Monschau last but not least there’s Monschau; situated close to the Belgium border only about a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Cologne. This quaint little village takes visitors back in time thanks to its preserved timber houses.

Where to Eat and Drink in Cologne

Restaurants in cologne.

Bei Oma Kleinmann – Authentic and local eatery serving schnitzels with sauces and beers. Make sure to call ahead and reserve as this place fills up pretty fast.  Hans Im Glück – Top-notch burger chain offering vegan, vegetarian and traditional burgers. Great value for money. Try their sweet potato fries and don’t forget to ask for their cocktail menu. Oma’s Küche – Traditional German cuisine in a cozy and friendly setting. Brauhaus Sünnner im Walfisch – Situated in a 1600’s stepped-gable house, this authentic German restaurant serves meaty dishes and house-brewed Kölsch. Haxenhaus – A traditional tavern found along the riverfront with homemade sausages, pork knuckles and Kölsch beer.

Bars in Cologne

Braustelle – Casual brewery with a wide selection of beers, bites and atmosphere. Zum Goldenen Schuss – Local pub with a gritty vibe offering cocktails, music and a friendly atmosphere. Délirium Café Cologne – Found in the old town, Délirium features an exhaustive selection of beer with 30 on tap, vintage video games and classic music hits playing throughout the night. Seiberts – Classic Bar & Liquid Kitchen – Eclectic cocktails and aperitifs in a vintage-inspired bar. FRIESEN Bar – Cocktailbar Köln – A retro, 1920s-inspired cocktail bar with intriguing cocktails, lounge sofas and easygoing house music. Red Fox Bar – American-style bar with vintage arcade games, pinball, Skee Ball and more.  Rosebud Bar – Speakeasy-inspired bar with a relaxed atmosphere, outside terrace and a large selection of cocktails.

Cafes in Cologne

The Coffee Gang – A small, yet cozy coffee shop with superb flat white, daily pastries and a local vibe to it. Goodchild Café – French-inspired café with fresh and delicious croissants, Danishes and other pastries. Zwoo kafferröster – Excellent specialty coffee for when you’re on the good. Café Sehnsucht – A laid-back brunch and coffee spot with a quaint terrace. Café Schwesterherz – A homely café with fresh homemade cakes, breakfast items and great coffee. Kaffeesaurus – Modern coffee shop with baked goods, roasted coffee and brunch specials. Bäckerei Zimmermann KG – Traditional German bakery founded in 1875 with a wide selection of sweet and savory items for when you’re looking for a quick bite to eat. Easylivin’ Coffee, Brunch & Lunch – Tucked away from the busy shopping district, this coffee shop offers amazing coffee and sandwich options. Café Chocolate – The stylish Café Chocolate has divine hot chocolates as well as a large selection of brunch choices.

Best Time to Visit Cologne, Germany

Cologne is a beautiful city all year round. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of when is the best time to visit Cologne, Germany. However, there are a few general tips that can help make your visit more enjoyable. For example, it’s generally warm in May and June making it ideal to walk around the city and enjoy its parks, so if you’re looking for a warm climate, these are generally the months to visit. Likewise, September and October tend to be slightly cooler than July and August, however, the leaves are starting to change colors and the city is still bustling with activity.

Lastly, the winter months may bring in colder weather, however visiting Cologne during the Christmas market season is truly a treat. The entire city delineates a wintry fantastical backdrop featuring festive bazaars in various locations. For an unbeatable tour of the best Christmas markets in Cologne, you can refer to this guide .

A Guide to Visiting the Christmas Markets in Cologne, Germany

Cologne is a captivating city that offers something for everyone. From its impressive landmarks to its unique cultural heritage, there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy while visiting. With this guide, we hope you have a better understanding of what the city has to offer, as well as helpful tips on how to make the most of your trip. So, don’t hesitate any longer – start planning your dream trip to Cologne now!

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A Guide to Visiting Cologne, Germany

Welcome to Cologne, the vibrant and historic city in Germany’s Rhineland region! Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany , with a rich history that stretches back over two thousand years. From its stunning Gothic architecture, to its vibrant nightlife, and its beautiful riverfront, Cologne is an unforgettable destination.

In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to make the most of your time visiting Cologne. From top attractions to delicious local cuisine, we’ll show you the best of what this city has to offer.

So, let’s get started exploring the beautiful city of Cologne!

See also: Off The Beaten Track Tip: Belgian Quarter Cologne

Here is an overview:

A snapshot of what to expect when visiting Cologne

Cologne carnival (fastelovend), cologne is famous for its kölsch (beer), traditional meals in cologne, schweinshaxe, halver hahn, kölsche kaviar (cologne caviar), rheinischer sauerbraten (soorbrode) – rhenish sauerbraten, himmel un äd, miesmuscheln – moschele, sausages, pretzels and sauerkraut, private 3-hour südstadt food tour, top sights in cologne, the cologne cathedral, protected by the unesco, cologne cathedral: vr-walking tour, römisch-germanisches museum, kölner philharmonie, insider tip, old town cologne, cologne zoo, kölntriangle, chocolate museum in cologne, rheinauhafen, streetart bike tour cologne.

The distinctive flavour to the city of Cologne is often put down to the inhabitants, or Kölsche, who take an enormous amount of pride in their city. Cologne, like most areas of Germany, has its very own local dialect of German, though this is unlikely to hinder the average sight-seeing tourist, as many of the landmarks of the city have English-speaking guides and information.

For those tourists who speak German, and wish to practice it, the citizens have a lot of patience with those getting to grips with the grammatically difficult language.

Colognians are very friendly people; welcoming tourists of all types and with all interests. Away from the landmarks, many workers of the German rail system (Deutsche Bahn) speak English, as well as ticket/timetable machines available in English modes. Local transport systems, however, rarely cater for the English speaker, with only the bare essentials of information available but this should only concern those wishing to explore the city away from the more centralised sights.

Those wishing to explore away from the central city should plan their journey before leaving, to prevent minor complications as there is a lack of English away from the centre of Cologne. Older people in Cologne tend to have little or no knowledge of English, whilst businessmen and women, as well as the German youth, all tend to have a good knowledge of the language. Language is rarely a strong barrier, so this shouldn’t be too much of a worry for the average tourist, just approach a friendly native and use a smile on your face, your arms and legs. Cologne’s strong side is its cultural life.

If you visit Cologne alone, you won’t stay alone for long (any time of the year). You just have to visit a pub and it won’t be long, someone will invite you for a beer!

Get the KölnCard

Discover Cologne comfortably and cost-effectively with the KölnCard. With free access to public transport you can travel for 24 or 48 hours and receive discounts of up to 50% from numerous partners. The KölnCard is available for single persons or groups. – Free travel on buses and trains – Up to 50% discount at attractions and museums – Up to 50% discount on guided tours – Up to 20% discount at restaurants – Up to 15% discount on shopping Get the card here .

Karneval , the biggest festivity in Cologne is the Winter carnival (or Fastelovend) in February. According to the official Cologne tourism website: “Its highlight is the street carnival taking place from Weiberfastnacht (the Thursday before Ash Wednesday, traditionally the day on which women take control of the city) to Karnevalsdienstag (Shrove Tuesday).

On Rosenmontag (Shrove Monday) more than one and a half million people line Cologne’s streets to watch the parade with the mad triad – the prince, farmer, and virgin – every year.”

Dates for Cologne Carnival : It starts on the Thursday before the beginning of Lent each year.

I’m always telling friends that the Cologne Carnival might be the best carnival in the world. Ok, I know it’s quite something to say that, as there are many great places out there with great Carnival experiences. But Cologne Carnival is unique!

Everyone… really…Everyone gets dressed up ! People run around as clowns, cowboys, Indians, self-made costumes & whatever you like to be! The songs you’ll hear are all in “Kölsch”, the dialect and most of them are about carnival and about the city and its people.

Cologne is known for its love of beer, often referred to as Kölsch. This top-fermented beer is usually light in color and has a distinctively dry and crisp taste, thanks to its local ingredients. It is also served in a special glass called a Kölschstange, which is designed to keep the beer cold and carbonated.

Cologne has a rich brewing culture, with dozens of local breweries producing Kölsch and other beers. Some of the most popular include Reissdorf Kölsch, Gaffel Kölsch, and Sion Kölsch. Many of these traditional beers are served in pubs and restaurants throughout the city, often accompanied by a plate of hearty local food.

To taste as many Kölsch as you can, join this brewery tour .

The city also plays host to a number of beer festivals throughout the year, including the famous Cologne Carnival that we just mentioned. During this time, thousands of people come to the city for its unique mix of parties and parades, as well as its beer.

In addition to traditional Kölsch, Cologne also produces a number of craft beers. These include IPAs, wheat beers, and even sour beers, which are becoming increasingly popular. There are also a number of specialty bars and shops throughout.

See also: Traditional Beer and Food in Cologne

Cologne is a wonderful city full of culture and tradition, and this is especially true when it comes to its food. Traditional food in Cologne is a mix of influences from all over the world, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.

In general, it is important to follow a healthy diet. However, there are times when you just want to indulge, like when you eat a cured and cooked pork knuckle. But if you want to keep an eye on your figure, you can cut off the visible bacon and eat only half of the shank. To make the dish more balanced, it’s also a good idea to focus on the side dishes like sauerkraut or mashed potatoes!

Another traditional dish is the Halver Hahn . If you haven’t read up on it, the name might mistakenly lead you to expect half a roast chicken – but if you’re then served only a rye roll with medium-aged Gouda, onions, butter and mustard by the Köbes (the waiter at the brewery) you’ll be in for a surprise! In Cologne, however, everyone knows that this is the legendary Halve Hahn.

This is a very popular snack in Cologne and is often served in pubs or cafes.

Similar to “Halver Hahn”, the specialty “Kölsche Kaviar” could also lead to confusion. But unlike the incredibly expensive fish roe, this delicacy has absolutely nothing in common with it.

Kölsche caviar is a hearty portion of blood sausage, affectionately known in Cologne as “Flönz”. This delicacy is served with a crispy “Röggelchen,” onion rings, and a generous dash of mustard – sometimes accompanied by a crunchy pickled gherkin.

German cuisine has many traditional dishes, including Sauerbraten. If you follow the Rhenish recipe (known in Cologne as “Soorbrode”), it is refined with sweeteners such as apple or turnip, and raisins are also added.

An important fact: The meat for sauerbraten is usually horse. However, many Cologne breweries and restaurants use beef instead out of consideration for their guests.

This hearty braised dish is classically served with potato dumplings and applesauce, but occasionally boiled potatoes are also served.

For those looking for more hearty traditional dishes, there is the “Himmel und Erde” (Heaven and earth), which is a dish made with mashed potatoes. A delicious variation is served in Cologne: Crispy fried blood sausage and roasted onions add a hearty flavor to the potato and apple mash. Have it with a glass of Kölsch beer.

The dish, which takes its name from the common term “Erdapfel” for potatoes – apples from the ground – and the fruit on the trees in the sky, is a real treat for the palate.

You should know that mussels are usually served only from September to February. The background is probably historical, at a time when there were no refrigerators and it was too warm to store them.

The mussels are cooked in a broth of white wine and fresh root vegetables with bay leaf and pimento, they are simply delicious!

Another popular dishes in Cologne is the Bratwurst. This is a sausage that is served with either sauerkraut or mashed potatoes. It is often served with a side of apple sauce and is a very popular dish for locals and visitors alike.

Cologne is also known for its numerous beers and ales, which are often served with traditional German foods such as sausages, pretzels, and sauerkraut .

Begin your three-hour walk in the heart of Südstadt at Chlodwigplatz and immerse yourself in the culinary secrets of the district before enjoying your first tasting.

As you walk, you’ll get a glimpse into the history of Südstadt. Stop for an international treat and discover cool thrift and curio shops.

Then visit a traditional Cologne brewery and relax with a typical Cologne snack. Your guide will share his insider knowledge and tell you stories about the Balchem House, St. Severin’s or even the “wrong” part of the Rhine bank.

At the end of this tour of Cologne’s culinary culture, you will experience even more exotic delicacies from all over the world, including a sweet specialty!

• Price: €450 per group up to 10
• Duration: 3 hours
• Free cancelation up to 24 before

Sophia is a fantastic guide with a warm personality and a wealth of anecdotes. She has an extensive knowledge of the Severinviertel and conveys it in a sympathetic way. The tour offers a successful combination of culinary delights and historical background knowledge – also extremely exciting for young people!

Good to know: During this tour you will be accompanied by an experienced guide and visit a total of 5 international restaurants to enjoy a taste of each. Please note that drinks are not included and must be purchased separately.

Cologne is a beautiful city in Germany, filled with amazing sights that are worth seeing. Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or revisiting your favorite spots, here are the top sights in Cologne that you won’t want to miss.

Check out these Cologne activities available on Get Your Guide :

Protected by UNESCO, Cologne’s Dom is the first sight you will notice when taking the main exit from the central station. (If you don’t see it, you’ve taken the back exit.)

If you are in good shape, take the 533 stairs to the top of the south tower. It takes about 8-15 minutes to get up and I would recommend to spend 45 – 60 minutes in total, so wear comfortable shoes, but it’s worth the hike. A breathtaking view of the city awaits you as you climb to the top of Cologne Cathedral. After about 53 meters you will pass the Petersglocke – also known as the Cathedral Bell 1 and affectionately called “Decker Pitter” by the locals. Since 1923, this bell has been the acoustic embodiment of the cathedral’s deep C-note.

Cologne Cathedral is a place of superlatives. With a height of 157 meters and an area of 10,000 square meters, it is the third largest Gothic cathedral in the world.

Around 20,000 people visit it every day and an incredible 300,000 tons of stone were used!

Inside Cologne Cathedral there are many highlights to discover that will inspire you. An absolute highlight is the Shrine of the Three Kings, which is said to contain the “relics of the Magi” – at least if you want to believe it. Also impressive is the 4th-century St. Peter’s Rod, which you can admire in the cathedral’s underground treasury, along with many other treasures such as reliquaries, liturgical utensils, and manuscripts.

Another fascinating experience are the stained glass windows of the cathedral: they bring an incredible power of color to the interior of the building! With over 10,000 square meters of windows, this sacred building actually has more stained glass than any other church in the world – a truly magical place!

The cost of maintaining the cathedral is around 30,000 Euros per day – a large sum, but well justified for such an impressive sight.

The value of the cathedral can hardly be expressed in monetary terms: it is priceless and has therefore been valued in accounting terms at a symbolic value of just 27 Euros!

In order to maintain this unique place, about 100 people work on the building every day – they are part of the so-called “cathedral construction crew”.

It is not for nothing that the cathedral is often referred to as Germany’s UNESCO World Heritage Site; its significance extends far beyond its borders.

Touring the Cathedral is forbidden during Mass. Entry into the cathedral is free but you will be asked for a donation.

• Admission to the tower costs (regular/reduced): €6/€3 (Family card: €12)
• Admission to the treasury costs (regular/reduced): €6/€3,
• A combined ticket granting you admission to the treasury and tower can be purchased for (regular/reduced): €9/€4.50. (Family combi card: €18)
• Entrance to climb the Cologne cathedral: Look at the majestic main portal of the Cathedral and walk towards Roncalliplatz, which is to the right of the Cathedral when you look at it from the front. After a few meters you will discover a staircase that goes down next to the South Tower and is marked “Dom-Turm / Parkhaus / Toiletten”. There you will find as well the entrance to the tower at the foot of the stairs.

Experience a breathtaking journey that takes you from the medieval planning of the construction to the present day. Discover the story behind the construction of the cathedral and learn exciting facts about the building process in this captivating tour.

Thanks to a virtual reality headset, you’ll be immersed in the crucial moments of construction! More than just a history lesson, it’s an adventure through centuries of awe-inspiring insights.

The tour will cover a distance of 1.5 km, so wear comfortable shoes. Note, the tour does not go inside the cathedral, but only around the outside.

Price: €23 Max group size: 15 Free cancelation until 24 hours before your visit. Skip the line.

The Römisch-Germanisches Museum is a museum dedicated to archaeology and the history of Cologne. It’s one of the oldest museums in Germany and was founded in 1912.

Inside, you can explore collections of stone monuments, mosaics, and coins from the Roman period. There are also sections dedicated to medieval and modern art, including a sculpture park.

The museum offers the opportunity to marvel at the archaeological heritage from the Paleolithic Age to the early Middle Ages. The collection holdings are unique and include rich finds from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as top-class goldsmith’s work from the Migration Period.

In addition, the museum offers you insights into the art and culture of Roman and early medieval cities and regions.

Particularly impressive is the world’s largest collection of Roman glass vessels, which is considered the most precious treasure of the museum.

Price: €6 (€3 reduced)

In the immediate vicinity of Cologne Cathedral, and with that right in the city center, you’ll find the Concert Hall “ Kölner Philharmonie “.

It’s one of the most renowned concert halls in Germany and it offers a varied program of the great works of the symphonic and chamber music repertoire, as well as jazz, folk and pop events.

There is a concert every day of the year, and often several on Sundays and holidays. The impressive hall is designed as an amphitheater, so that every seat has an excellent view of the stage.

The hall is also home to the Gürzenich Orchestra and the Kölner Philharmoniker and its world-class acoustics makes it a great place to experience live classical music.

It’s not allowed to walk on the plaza above the roof of the Philharmonie during concerts, as this would disturb the great acoustics. Skateboarding and bicycling are also prohibited to avoid disturbing footsteps.

If you are in Cologne on a Thursday and if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city at 12 noon… Then you should definitely check the Philharmonic Hall to see if the “Philharmonic Lunch” is taking place there. Note: Lunch is not a meal, it’s just lunchtime. During this time, you have the opportunity to listen to an orchestra rehearsal for 30 minutes free of charge and get an authentic impression of how the members prepare. A real insider’s tip for anyone interested – especially since admission is free! Here

Cologne’s historic Old Town is a popular tourist destination that tends to stay away from locals. Nevertheless, a visit to the city is worth a detour into the cobblestone streets and past the historic houses and numerous breweries.

However, it’s best to avoid a weekend visit, as the old town is then often overrun by bachelor parties.

To get a good impression of Cologne’s old town, we recommend a relaxed stroll through the alleys between Heumarkt and Alter Markt and along the Rhine promenade.

Especially interesting: Almost 90% of Cologne’s old town was destroyed during World War II and then mostly rebuilt in the old style – so many buildings are not as old as they look!

In the old town you’ll also find the historic town hall. You will be amazed by it, as it’s one of the most magnificent Renaissance buildings in all of Germany. The town hall tower is particularly noteworthy: its loving details were faithfully rebuilt after the Second World War and give it a unique beauty.

The Cologne Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Germany and is home to over 8,000 animals. It’s a great place to spend a day with family and friends and is filled with fascinating exhibits and attractions.

The elephant park is undoubtedly one of the main attractions at Cologne Zoo and is also the largest north of the Alps.

Another highlight is the adventure house Hippodom, which houses an extensive African river landscape – Nile crocodiles, Sitatunga antelopes and hippos, among others, live here in an impressive setting.

Also very popular with visitors is the Rainforest House, which features endangered animals and plants from a natural paradise in Southeast Asia.

The jungle house for the great apes, on the other hand, offers guests the opportunity to observe primates up close without disturbing them – a showcase project of the Cologne Zoo for the whole of Europe!

For children, the Clemenshof is a lovingly designed replica of a typical small farm with a petting zoo for rare native species.

And if you like fish or reptile shows, you can see countless species in the aquarium on three floors!

Price: € 23 Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00 Address: Riehler Straße 173, 50735 Cologne

You have to cross the river rhine to get here. And it’s worth taking this short walk, as you’ll get the best views of the old town, the cathedral and the city from this side of the river.

The KölnTriangle is a modern complex located close to the Cologne Trade Fair. It houses museums, shops, restaurants, and offices, as well as a large observation deck with panoramic views of the city.

The KölnTriangle is a great spot to take in the sights of the city and get a glimpse of the surrounding area.

The chocolate museum in Cologne is an absolute highlight that you should not miss – no matter if big or small!

During the exciting tour you will learn how raw cocoa is turned into a delicious praline. The journey begins in the tropical house and takes you from the harvest to the transport to the factory.

Delicious tastings let you dive even deeper into the world of chocolate. The absolute highlight of the museum, however, is undoubtedly the three-meter-high fountain with 200 kilograms of flowing chocolate, which you are of course also allowed to taste. In the museum’s café, you can enjoy various chocolate specialties while enjoying a view of the Rhine.

Your newly acquired knowledge about the history and production of chocolate will make you appreciate the end product much more – this is what makes enjoyment really fun!

The Chocolate Museum’s candy shop offers a variety of treats to take home. Fresh chocolate in a variety of flavors and homemade chocolates with a variety of delicious fillings are available. If you’re a fan of hand-poured figurines made from the finest chocolate, you’ll find a wide variety of artfully designed creations.

If you have time, create your own chocolate variation and pick it up later. And if you’re a fan of colorful coins, you’ll find your favorite among these handmade delicacies!

Costs: Admission to the museum costs only €14.50 for adults and €7.5 for children under the age of sixteen; meanwhile, little visitors under the age of six can even enjoy themselves for free!

Skip the line with this ticket!

What awaits you in the museum is truly fantastic. The info texts are written in both German and English and the staff welcomes you with great courtesy and friendliness. It feels like a journey through time as you walk among the chocolates. And if you get hungry, the restaurant offers countless delicious cakes to choose from.

Just next to the Chocolate Museum you’ll have the Rheinauhafen.

Rheinauhafen, a former port facility in Cologne’s Südstadt district, has long since become a major urban development project. The urban quarter is modern and yet characterized by historic buildings, resulting in a fascinating mix.

The old port office and other remnants of the industrial past have been converted and now serve as office and service buildings. Cafes, bars, and restaurants also offer the opportunity for a relaxing stroll.

In addition to the picturesque marina, the three striking crane houses are a special highlight of the Rheinauhafen. With a height of almost 60 meters, they not only house offices, but also luxurious condominiums – a truly exceptional living concept!

Embark on a street art bike tour that will give you a new perspective on Cologne!

Off the beaten track, you’ll explore the Belgian Quarter and Ehrenfeld with a maximum of 15 like-minded people and a local guide. Dive into the world of street galleries and experience the city’s vibrant creative scene up close!

During your tour, your English-speaking guide will tell you everything you need to know about this fascinating art form, as well as background information on the individual artists. This will give you a valuable insight into how Cologne has evolved over time into a colorful urban jungle.

Each of our tours is individually designed – because no other city culture can match the vibrant flair of this place. So grab your bike and let’s dive into the urban charm of Cologne’s diverse street art scene!

Price: €37 Duration: 3 hours Free cancelation up to 24 hours before

The tour includes:

• Use of city bikes on tour
• Helmets (available on request)
• English speaking guide
• Disposable rain ponchos (in case of bad weather)

These are just a few of the top sights in Cologne. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, there is something for everyone to explore.

So make sure to take the time to explore the city and take in all of its beauty.

I'm sure you've had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You're in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.

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Cologne Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany and a popular tourist destination for people passing to/from the Netherlands . The city is known for its Gothic World Heritage Site cathedral, wonderful cafes and international restaurants, and historic architecture.

Cologne, or Köln in German, was founded as part of the Roman Empire and ruins from that era have been found all over the city. During the Middle Ages, Cologne grew to become one of the largest cities in Europe, during which time the famous Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral) was built. Cologne is also the birthplace of cologne (as in the perfume), which was invented here in the 18th century. For Germans, Cologne is often visited usually during one special time of the year: Carnival.

Personally, I think more people should visit Cologne. The city has a range of museums and free activities that make it budget-friendly. Sure, it can feel a bit too “modern” and less vibrant than other German cities, but it does have a charming quick pace to it and the people who live there are known for being the friendliest in the whole country.

Compared to cities like Berlin and Munich , Cologne is a lot less touristy so it’s easy to beat the crowds here too.

This travel guide to Cologne can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cologne

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Cologne

1. Visit the Kölner Dom

The Kölner Dom is a UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the country. It’s famous for its twin spires, medieval stained-glass windows, and giant flying buttresses. Entry to the cathedral is free but the tower costs 6 EUR. Guided tours in English start every day at 3pm and cost 10 EUR.

2. Explore on foot

Agnesviertel is a bohemian area filled with shops, art galleries, bookstores, and pubs. Alte Feuerwache has a great flea market during the summer, and of course, there is always the historic center to explore, home to the Cathedral, Great St. Martin Church, and the Town Hall. The city is easy to get around on foot, though if you’d prefer a guided tour you can take a free walking tour with Free Walking Tour Cologne Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

3. Visit Grüngürtel

Grüngürtel is the best park for a picnic, a walk, and people-watching. Grab a drink at the beer garden, lounge with a book, or have a barbecue at one of the barbecue pits. The forest of oak and maple trees is especially lovely to stroll through in autumn!

4. Take a river cruise

Cruises up and down the Rhine are a popular way to take in the city. You can take a day tour or join a multi-day trip through other parts of Germany. Longer tours are generally geared toward seniors and tend to be expensive. For a one-hour sightseeing tour, tickets start from 13.50 EUR. For a two-hour sightseeing cruise, tickets start from 20 EUR.

5. Take a day trip to Beethoven’s Birthplace

Bonn is the town where composer Ludwig van Beethoven was born. Visit the house where he was born and that today is home to his manuscripts, pictures, musical instruments, and mementos. It makes for an easy day trip. Admission is 10 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Cologne

1. visit the wallraf-richartz museum.

This fine art museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of medieval paintings, specifically focused on the Cologne School (i.e. painters from in and around Cologne between 1300-1550). In addition to its medieval collection, the museum includes works from the Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Impressionist periods. Notable artists in the collection include Rubens, Rembrandt, Monet, Pissarro, Manet, Cézanne, and van Gogh, among many others. The museum also features a variety of rotating temporary exhibitions. Admission is 8 EUR.

2. Celebrate the Winter “Karneval”

The biggest festival in Cologne is the winter Karneval, occurring every February. On opening day, crowds line the streets and watch a huge parade, which is followed by endless eating, drinking, and partying in the streets. The parade launches an entire week of street parties. Prepare to dress up in costume, dance, be social, and take part in the crazy festivities. When the sun goes down, people head out to bars to keep the momentum going.

3. Visit the Roonstrasse Synagogue

The synagogue is notable for its Neo-Romanesque style, having been rebuilt in the 1950s after the Nazis partially burned it down on Kristallnacht in 1938 (the Torah within the synagogue was actually rescued by a Catholic priest). Today, visitors can admire the reconstructed exterior dominated by the large circular stained-glass window, round and square turrets, and decorated arched windows. The interior is simply decorated and features a vast blue dome as well as an exhibition on the history and culture of the Jewish community in Cologne. It’s free to visit.

4. See the Museum Ludwig

This art museum has a diverse exhibit on German expressionism, but the main draw is the variety of postmodern art — including the largest collection of Pop Art in the world. You can view works from Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as a variety of temporary exhibits. If you love modern art, this museum is for you. Admission is 11 EUR. On the first Thursday of the month, it’s 7 EUR after 5pm.

5. Tour the Schokoladen Museum

This museum is dedicated to the history and production of chocolate, with exhibits about everything from the Aztecs’ production of it to modern-day cocoa growing. The end of the tour features a chocolate fountain for sampling and a fully stocked chocolate shop. Admission is 13.50 EUR on weekdays and 14.50 EUR on weekends. Extend your visit by enjoying cakes and other chocolate delicacies at the Chocolat Grand Café while looking out over the Rhine River.

7. Explore the botanical gardens

Located on the left bank of the Rhine, these gardens are perfectly landscaped and are home to more than 10,000 species of plants, including orchids, cocoa plants, and succulents. Established in the 19th century, the Cologne Botanical Gardens is the oldest public park in the city. There are a variety of gardens here, including Mediterranean, English, and alpine gardens, along with four different greenhouses. It’s free to visit.

8. Go to Phantasialand

What began as a puppet theater in 1967 has now become a full-blown amusement park on the outskirts of Cologne. Visitors of all ages flock here to ride the rollercoasters along the shores of Lake Mondsee. There’s also an area for dining, drinking, shopping, and live music. Tickets range from 45-57 EUR depending on the season and day of the week.

10. Walk the Rheinboulevard

This riverside walkway is located across the river from Cologne’s historic center in a new and modern part of town. Stroll along the river taking in the views of both the modern and historic skylines, or pop into one of the many restaurants, cafes, and galleries along the way. Ascend the iconic KölnTriangle building for panoramic views over the entire city from the building’s observation deck (admission is 5 EUR).

11. Learn about Nazi-era Cologne at the NS Documentation Centre (NSDOK)

This center is part memorial, part museum, and part research center. Housed in the former headquarters of the Cologne Gestapo (secret state police), the museum features exhibitions on everyday life under the Nazis, resistance efforts, and information about the post-war reconstruction. Visitors can even descend into the basement to see the cells where prisoners were held. There are also over 1,800 drawings and inscriptions that they scratched into the walls. Admission is 4.50 EUR.

12. Ride the Cologne cable car

For impressive views over the Rhine River, hop on Cologne’s cable car. It was the first cable car in Europe to cross a river when it opened in 1957. The ride is short (just 6 minutes) and it’s open from April-October from 10am-6pm. Tickets cost 5 EUR for a one-way journey and 8 EUR round-trip.

13. Explore the city by bike

If walking tours aren’t your thing, try biking. Cycling is incredibly popular in Cologne, and it’s the perfect way for travelers to see more of the city in a shorter time period. Radstation Cologne offers daily tours where you’ll see Cologne’s main sights, learn about local history, and enjoy the views. Tickets are 26 EUR, which includes the bike rental. If you prefer an independent pace, you can rent your own bike and follow the Cologne tourism board’s self-guided bike tours, available for download on their website .

14. Tour the breweries

Cologne has a long brewing history; the oldest brewery, Brauhaus Sion, dates to the early 14th century. The city is also the birthplace of Kölsch beer, a crisp, golden beer that technically must originate within 50 kilometers (30 miles) of the city to be able to bear the name. Learn about brewing history and culture on a guided walking tour with stops at various breweries. Kölner Kompass offers tours for 23.50 EUR, which includes 3 Kölsch beers. The Kölsch Crew also offers tours for 19 EUR (not including beer tastings) as well as a beer and Christmas market tour for 29 EUR during the holiday season.

  For more information on other cities in Germany, check out these guides:

• Berlin Travel Guide
• Frankfurt Travel Guide
• Munich Travel Guide

Cologne Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs around 27 EUR per night while a dorm with 8 beds or more costs 19-25 EUR. A basic double private room costs around 60 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard though free breakfast is not common (a few have a breakfast buffet available for an additional fee of 6-8 EUR however). Most hostels in Cologne have kitchen facilities, but be sure to double-check if this is important to you. Many also have an attached café and bar.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 60-75 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi and TVs are standard, as are private bathrooms, though some still have shared bathrooms so be sure to double-check before you book. A few hotels offer free breakfast, though it isn’t common. However, most hotels offer a breakfast buffet for an additional cost of 8-10 EUR.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Cologne, with private rooms starting at 35-60 EUR per night. Entire homes/apartments start at 55-85 EUR per night. Prices double when not booked in advance, however, so be sure to book early.

Food – Food in Germany is very affordable — and very hearty. Meat is a staple of most meals, especially sausages; there are over 1,500 different kinds of sausages in Germany (sausages here are known as “wurst”). Stews are also a popular traditional choice, as are potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Breakfast is usually composed of bread, cold cuts, cheese, and boiled eggs.

Cologne has tons of cheap food options and there’s a lively street food truck scene here too. You can get burgers for around 7 EUR, while kebabs and burritos can be less than 5 EUR. Sausages and wurst at a food stand are around 3 EUR.

A fast food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs 8 EUR. At a traditional beer hall, you can get a sauerkraut soup for 5.50 EUR while fried sausage with homemade potato salad is about 11 EUR. A small stein of beer to go with it costs about 4 EUR. Cologne is particularly known for its small, cold Kölsch beer called a ‘Stange’ that only costs around 2.50 EUR each.

A three-course meal at a traditional German restaurant serving schnitzel and potatoes costs about 33 EUR, while wine costs at least 5 EUR a glass.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend as little as 50 EUR on groceries per week. This gets you staples like bread, eggs, rice/pasta, veggies, fruit, and some meat.

Backpacking Cologne Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Cologne, my suggested budget is around 60 EUR per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, using public transportation, cooking most of your meals, taking free walking tours, and limiting your drinking.

A mid-range budget of about 130 EUR per day covers staying in a private Airbnb room, eating out for most meals, renting a bike to get around, taking the occasional taxi, drinking more, and doing more paid activities like museum visits and brewery tours,

On a “luxury” budget of about 265 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy more drinks, take more taxis or rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky’s the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Cologne Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Cologne isn’t the most expensive city in Germany and you can find a lot of good deals here. Here are some ways you can save money on your trip to Cologne:

• Spend the day in the park – Cologne offers many free parks within city limits. Spend the day walking around or just hanging out; it’s a great way to pass some time, relax, have a picnic, and get to know the city.
• Enjoy happy hour – Zülpicher Str. is the bar-hopping street in Cologne. This is where all the university kids hang out, so there’s always a happy hour no matter what time of day it is! Happy hours are mostly focused on cocktails, which tend to be around 5-6 EUR. If you’re really on a budget, you can avoid the bars and restaurants altogether and just grab cheap drinks at the Späti (small drink/snack markets) if the weather is nice. Many people buy their beers and just stand around chatting and hanging out. Plus, people from Cologne are known for their friendliness so you’ll probably meet some people too.
• Get a Cologne Pass – A Cologne pass gives you free transportation and discounts on certain attractions and restaurants. It’s a great deal if you’re spending a bit of time in the city. A one-day pass costs 9 EUR and a two-day pass is 18 EUR.
• Take a free walking tour – Free Walk Cologne offers daily tours of the city. They last a couple of hours and cover all the main highlights. They’re a great way to explore and learn about the history and culture of Cologne.
• Stay with a local – The best way to save money on accommodation is to stay with a local for free via platforms like Couchsurfing. Not only will you save money, but it’s a great way to get some local insight into the city and discover things most visitors would miss.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Cologne

Cologne has plenty of great hostels spread out all over the city. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Weltempfänger Backpacker Hostel
• Pathpoint Cologne Backpacker Hostel
• Station Hostel for Backpackers
• Die Wohngemeinschaft
• Black Sheep Hostel

How to Get Around Cologne

Public transportation – Cologne is well connected by its subway (the U-Bahn) and its above-ground train system (the S-Bahn). A single ticket is 3 EUR and is good for up to 90 minutes. You can purchase tickets at the station or by using the KVB app, which gives you a 10% discount on fares. Always keep your ticket on you as random checks on the train are very common.

A day pass with unlimited travel costs 9 EUR. You can use your tickets across the train, tram, and bus network.

Trams connect certain areas in Cologne, but they’re not as fast or efficient as the trains. Ticket prices are the same for the train and bus system.

Buses can get you anywhere you need to go, especially where the trains and trams don’t go. Ticket prices are the same as the trains and trams.

Bicycle – Bicycles are a great way for getting around Cologne. Radstation Köln is a bike-sharing service that has bikes for a rate is 3 hours for 7 EUR, with a maximum daily charge of 14 EUR. The more economical option if you’re staying even a few days is to get the weekly pass, which costs 10 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis are not cheap here, but you rarely need to use them. The base rate is 3.50 EUR and it’s an additional 1.70 EUR per kilometer afterward. Skip them if you can.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Cologne, but again, you should rarely need to use one as public transportation can get you everywhere for cheaper.

Car rental – Car rentals can be as low as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental, but you won’t need one to get around the city. I’d only rent one if you plan on exploring the region. Renters need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to Cologne

Summer (June-August) is the most popular and busiest times to visit Cologne, with daily temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F). The shoulder seasons (fall and spring) are also excellent times to visit, with mild temperatures, lots of sun, and fewer tourist crowds.

Cologne can get pretty cold in the winter, with temperatures dropping as low as 1°C (34°F). You’ll avoid the tourist crowds and prices are a bit lower, however, February’s Karneval and the Christmas markets attract a crowd so be sure to book in advance if you visit during these times.

How to Stay Safe in Cologne

Cologne is safe to visit. Your greatest risk is petty crime like pickpocketing so be careful on crowded public transit and around busy tourist attractions, including flea markets. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

Also, try not to be out alone after dark in the Red Light District.

If you’re worried about getting scammed you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Remember to always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and don’t keep a lot of valuables on you.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Cologne Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Cologne Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling in Germany and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Berlin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Survive Oktoberfest

The 18 Best Things To Do in Berlin

Munich is Better than Berlin

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Cologne (Köln)

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Fun-loving Cologne is the greatest of all western Germany’s cities, though – given that it was visited early and often by the RAF during World War II – perhaps not its most beautiful. Nevertheless, it has a unique architectural inheritance from its long history which creates a powerful sense of continuity – above all in the instantly recognizable shape of its cathedral , one of the most famous religious buildings on the planet and the seat of Germany’s Catholic primate. Cologne also has a highly developed sense of its own distinctiveness, expressed through the strong Kölsch dialect, the beer of the same name, and a hedonistic approach to life most apparent during Karneval . Though its museums and galleries are first-rate, there’s nothing museum-like about Germany’s fourth city: it’s the nation’s television centre, home to the major broadcasters WDR and RTL, and is also – despite rivalry from Berlin – still an important centre for the art world, with small commercial galleries peppering the inner city.

Karneval in Cologne

The rosenmontag, kölsch – the local accent on beer, stumbling blocks of history, the dom (cologne cathedral), brief history.

For centuries COLOGNE was the German metropolis. The city’s origins are Roman: the Emperor Claudius’s fourth wife Agrippina – Nero’s mother – was born here, and after their marriage he raised the city to Colonia status, from which it derives its name. Later, while upstarts like Munich or Berlin were still a twinkle in the eye of their founders, early medieval Cologne was the largest city north of the Alps, ruled by powerful archbishops and benefiting economically from its strategic location astride the Rhine.

The twentieth century

The twentieth century brought harder times for Cologne, occupied by the Allies after World War I and bombed terribly during World War II; the Dom was spared yet much of the rest of the city left in ruins. In the postwar years, Cologne radiated moral authority as the hometown of Chancellor Konrad Adenauer and of Heinrich Böll, the Nobel Prize-winning author who was dubbed the “conscience of the nation”. Yet it was also the scene of one of the bloodiest episodes in Germany’s terrorist war of the 1970s – the kidnapping by the Red Army Faction of the industrialist Hanns Martin Schleyer at the height of the “German Autumn” of 1977, in the course of which Schleyer’s driver, bodyguard and two policemen were shot dead. Schleyer himself was subsequently murdered.

Cologne today

The local tourist office’s slogan Köln ist ein Gefühl (“Cologne is a Feeling”) neatly sums up the city’s appeal. This is one of Europe’s most liberal and diverse places; one in ten of its one million residents are lesbian or gay, making it a pink citadel to rank with Amsterdam or San Francisco. Another tenth of its population is Muslim, with a splendid new mosque currently taking shape in the Ehrenfeld district. You could tick off Cologne’s sights over the course of a long weekend or so, but to get the most out of your stay you need to get away from the tourist haunts by the river and explore at least some of the quarters where the locals live and play.

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Cologne’s biggest festival is without doubt Karneval , which is celebrated with as much ritual and dedication to frivolity here as it is in Rio, filling the streets and bringing normal life to a standstill, never mind that the February weather in the Rhineland is nothing like as tempting as in Brazil. The so-called “fifth season” is officially launched each year at 11.11am on November 11, but Karneval (karneval.de) doesn’t really get underway properly until the New Year, with around six hundred Karneval-related events – including balls and Sitzungen or sessions, where Bütten or carnival speeches are made – taking place between then and Ash Wednesday. The season reaches its climax with the Tolle Tage or “crazy days”, beginning on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday with Weiberfastnacht or Women’s Day. This is a bad day to wear a tie if you’re a man, because it will get snipped off, the symbolism of which is somewhat obvious.

The Rosenmontag procession on the following Monday is the undoubted highpoint of Karneval, with wonderfully silly costumes and floats, presided over by the Prinz (the master of ceremonies), the Bauer (a farmer) and the Jungfrau or maiden, who is represented by a man in drag (though this aspect was suppressed by the Nazis). Around a million people turn out to see the Rosenmontag procession, which takes around four hours to wind its way through the city centre, as sweets (Kamelle), bouquets (Strüsjer) and other goodies are thrown at the Jecke – the “fools” or spectators – from the passing floats, and all and sundry cry Kölle Alaaf ! – the carnival greeting, which is a dialect derivation of “Köln über alles” or, freely translated, “up with/long live Cologne”. In parallel with the official carnival events, there’s a lively alternative scene, including a gay and lesbian element.

Kölsch is not only the name of the local Cologne dialect – one of the strongest regional accents in all Germany and positively mystifying to foreign visitors – but also of the city’s deliciously refreshing, hoppy, top-fermented beer, traditionally drunk in tall, slim 0.2 litre glasses known as Stangen , though these days there’s a certain amount of glass-size inflation going on to please German and foreign visitors accustomed to drinking their beer in larger measures. Brewery-owned or -affiliated Brauhäuser (or Bierhäuser ) represent the traditional core of Cologne’s eating and drinking scene, and there’s a whole range of colourfully named local dishes to accompany the Kölsch , from Kölsche Kaviar (in reality blood sausage) to Halver Hahn – a cheese roll rather than the “half a chicken” the name suggests – and Hämmche, pig’s trotter. The characteristically self-aggrandizing behaviour of the cheeky Köbes or waiters rounds off a highly distinctive, regional beer culture.

You first notice them almost by accident, as the sun catches the pavement and something glitters underfoot. Yet once you’ve spotted your first Stolperstein (stolpersteine.de) – the name means, literally “stumbling block”, you’ll keep stumbling over more. The little brass plaques, memorials to individual victims of the Nazis, usually stand in front of the house from which that victim was taken, and are the work of Gunter Demnig, a Berlin-born but Cologne-based artist. Since 1996 he’s laid 30,000 Stolpersteine in Germany and others in Poland, Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands among other places. They are particularly thick on the ground in the Zülpicher Viertel and Belgisches Viertel, close to the Roonstrasse synagogue; you’ll sometimes stumble across a dozen or more in front of a single house. Incredibly moving, they’re the antithesis of the big, official monuments to the Holocaust: they record the name, birth-date and fate – as far as it is known – of an individual. Chillingly, in many cases, the story is the same: deported and verschollen – missing, presumed dead. The placement of the stones outside the homes of the victims means the fate of entire families is often recorded. While many of the individuals remembered by the stones are Jewish, there are also Stolpersteine for political opponents of the regime, for the murdered Sinti and Roma, and for the Nazis’ gay victims.

So iconic, so perfectly realized does the profile of Cologne’s awe-inspiring Dom appear that it’s a surprise to learn that the familiar silhouette lacked those soaring, 157-metre spires for most of its history. Construction of the Dom – whose design was inspired by the colossal French cathedrals of Beauvais and Amiens – was prompted by the transfer of the relics of the Three Magi from Milan in 1164. Work began in 1248, with the fifty-metre-high choir consecrated by 1322, but stopped in 1560 and the church remained incomplete until the mid-nineteenth century, when neo-Gothic architect Ernst Friedrich Zwirner finished the job. It’s only when you get up close you appreciate its sheer size, at which point the sooty towers resemble vast waterfalls of Gothic sculpture. You can climb the south tower though be warned – there are 509 steps, and no lift. In the run-up to Christmas , a traditional market fills Roncalliplatz on the south side of the Dom, with others on Alter Markt, Heumarkt, Neumarkt and Rudolfplatz.

The interior

Once inside, the downside of the Dom being Germany’s most famous church is apparent, as grumpy, red-robed officials struggle to maintain some sort of ecclesiastical decorum amid the seething mass of visitors. But look up and you’ll forget the crowds, for the genius of the design lies in the way sheer height lends such delicacy and elegance to the structure of what is, by any measure, an enormous building. Five windows on the north side of the nave date from 1507 to 1509, though the Dom’s oldest window, the Bible Window, dates from around 1265 and is in the Chapel of the Three Magi in the ambulatory. The cathedral’s treasures include the very Shrine of the Three Magi that first inspired its construction; gorgeously gilded and bejewelled, the reliquary dates from around 1190 to 1225 and is behind the high altar.

Close by, the so-called Plan F is one of seven surviving medieval drawings of the cathedral. It depicts the design of the towers, and was of great help to their nineteenth-century builders. On the north side of the ambulatory, the Gero Crucifix is the oldest remaining monumental crucifix in the western world; it dates from 970, and originally stood in an early predecessor to the Dom. The most recent addition to the Dom’s artworks is the striking 19-metre-high abstract window by Cologne-based artist Gerhard Richter , installed in the south transept in 2007. Archbishop Meisner is not a fan, and ruffled feathers when he suggested it might be more at home in a mosque.

The Domschatzkammer

The partly subterranean Domschatzkammer is accessed from the exterior of the cathedral on the north side, and has something of the air of a bank vault, which is hardly surprising given the priceless works of religious art it contains, or the fact that one of them – the jewelled, seventeenth-century Sumptuous Monstrance – was badly damaged by thieves in 1975. The treasury occupies a series of thirteenth-century vaults, and its artefacts are beautifully lit and presented: particularly eye-catching are the gilded silver bishop’s crosier dating from 1322 and the so-called St Peter’s crosier , which is Roman and dates from the fourth century AD. Also on display is the original wooden structure of the Shrine of the Three Magi , while on the museum’s lower level it’s possible to see a fragment of the Roman city wall and the finds from two sixth-century Frankish tombs.

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10 Very Best Things To Do In Cologne

Nestled on the western fringes of the country, Cologne is one of the best cities and best places in Germany to explore. Hands down! Bustling with life and character, there’s an incredibly diverse mix of the best things to do in Cologne that you won’t want to miss.

Cologne is one of Germany’s largest and most diverse cities to explore and with Cologne Cathedral, its many world-renowned museums and the vibrant Belgian Quarter, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.

Take a look, below, at some of the favourite spots to visit in Cologne.

You’re going to have a great time in Germany. 

How To Get To Cologne

Cologne is a well-connected city and easily accessible by train, plane, car or horse and carriage (though, the latter will take you quite a while).

By train: We decided to take the train from London   (via Brussels), which took around 6 hours of travel time with the most epic 2-hour transfer in Brussels where you can grab yourself a quick waffle and see the Grand Place before whizzing across on the ICE train to Cologne.

You can also travel from most cities via the train network across Europe.

By plane: Cologne has its own airport that’s a short train/taxi ride from the city centre and is one of Euro Wings hub airports (meaning lots of choice for flights).

River cruise/Boat: As Cologne hugs the shores of the River Rhine, there’s an opportunity to arrive at the city via river cruise or regional boats too.

Best Things to do in Cologne

1.) scale the heights of cologne cathedral.

With over 500 steps, this can be a pretty steep climb but well worth it to scale the heights of one of Cologne’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sights.

Now, what I would say is that the climb to the viewpoint can get a little tough. There are hundreds of stairs and when it’s busy you feel like you can’t control your walking pace. Well, I was scared of slowing down incase I held the whole queue up.

If you want to avoid this, pop over and climb the tower in the morning, before the crowds arrive. Oh, and take a bottle of water, and a good pair of shoes and enjoy the views of the city.

2.) Party and gorge in the Belgian District

The Belgian District is one of Cologne’s most fun places and a totally great neighbourhood to spend an early evening for drinks, food and meet-ups with friends. 

Filled with an array of cool bars and delicious restaurants, it’s the perfect district to spend your evening in the city.

Just make sure to book any Cologne restaurants before you head out, especially on weekends. We found that lots of the places in the Belgium District became really popular on Saturday evening and made the mistake of not booking. 

Read more: Visiting the Belgian Quarter, Cologne

3.) Visit The Museums

Cologne is well known for its world-class museums , make sure to explore the many places, including the incredible Ludwig Museum that hosts work from Picasso and other world-class artists.

Every year, Cologne also hosts one of the coolest festivals where you can explore, party and enjoy the museums in the middle of the night.

Filled with DJs, plenty of bubbles and heaps of people – the Museums become the place to be, see and enjoy.   Museum Night happens once every year.

We had so much fun and I think we stayed up until about 2 am inside the museum itself. It really is one of the best things to do in Cologne.

Just be sure to grab tickets well in advance and check the Cologne museum website for upcoming schedules. We loved it. 

Read more: Visiting the museums of Cologne

4.) Gorge at the Chocolate Museum

Fellow chocolate lovers rejoice! Hands down, anything with choice and I’m there, and you can’t travel all the way to Cologne without visiting the Chocolate Museum .

Before arriving, be sure to book these Cologne Chocolate Museum tickets . This way, you’ll avoid those pesky peak time queues and wander straight in. We found this to be the easiest way to save time in Cologne.

Plan, plan and plan even more! 

Once here, take a tour of the ‘secret’ formulation area, enjoy a little chocolate and learn more about the craft of chocolate making.

Though they say secret, I still don’t get how that’s the case when we get to see all the ingredients going in! Whatever, I’m not complaining. 

Oh, don’t forget, the Chocolate Museum in Cologne usually has members of staff wandering around.

They don’t advertise it, but they usually have a bag filled with chocolates with them. Ask a few questions, or just say hello and see if they offer you a bar or two.

This happened to us on a few occasions and my tummy thanked me every time for being polite. 

5.) See the quaint churches of the city

There’s a whole heap of beautiful churches to see in Cologne, make sure to take the time to visit St. Martin’s especially – its architecture is truly beautiful.

Afterwards, you can spend some time strolling and visiting some of the other best things to do in Cologne before rocking up to the Belgium Quarter for an aperitif or dinner. 

6). Walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge

For a beautiful view of the city, walk across The Rhine River. This is a great area to stroll in Cologne, especially at sunset. 

One of the best ways to do this is via Hohenzollern Bridge to the Rheinboulevard where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the glorious sunsets that Cologne has to offer.

Plus, on the banks of the river, you’ll find lots of little bars and cafes that make this area of Cologne so nice to stroll. Just make sure to wrap up warm if you visit in winter! 

7.) Gorge on kölsche cuisine

When in Cologne, make sure to stop for some traditional kölsche cuisine at Früh am Dom .

The relaxed vibe of the place, delicious food and Kolsh beer is most definitely a reason to take a pit stop here.

Honestly, we left totally stuffed and don’t regret one mouthful! 

8.) Explore the historic Old town

Cologne dates all the way back to the Roman period, which can only mean there’s a whole array of different architectural styles and histories to explore.

One place you should definitely see is the old town, here you’ll find colourful houses, quaint shops and cobbled streets that are reminiscent of life many centuries ago.

9.) Visit Cologne’s youngest district, Rheinauhafen

This once bustling port area has now been transformed into a creative hub and some pretty cool buildings that’s one of the best things to do in Cologne when the sun begins to set.

The views are gorgeous. That being said, if you’re more interested in the history of Cologne, then this area might not be for you. 

Remember, it’s you that’s visiting, so be sure to choose the best things to do in Cologne that fit you.

This all being said, if you fancy an escape from Cologne’s city streets, drive out to Phantasialand. It’s one of the best theme parks in Germany and the rollercoasters are so good!

We loved Black Mamba and F.L.Y. – just be sure to take some throat lozenges. You will scream so much! 

10.) Watch the sunset 103 metres above Cologne

One of the best viewpoints in the city is from the brand new, Köln Triangle.

For a small entrance fee, you can take the lift to the 103-metre pinnacle that overlooks the historic centre of Cologne.

Head here around sunset and enjoy watching the city and the iconic Cologne Cathedral transform with sparkly orange hues.

It’s gorgeous.

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The Best Time to Visit Cologne

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Cologne may be best known for its massive cathedral , but there is so much more to this city like small beers and big festivals. Cologne, or Köln in German, knows how to party. A major German city, there is truly never a bad time to visit . Still, the very best time may be in February for its legendary Karneval (Carnival) celebrations that touch every corner of Cologne and beyond.

That said, there are highlights throughout the year in Cologne. Find out when to visit one of Germany's oldest and liveliest cities with a complete guide to the best time to visit with a breakdown by season on weather, crowds, and festivals.

Weather in Cologne

Cologne has four distinct seasons , each with its own unique attractions.

Though cold and dark, the winter season has two of the city's biggest draws of Christmas markets and Karneval. So people brave the average temperatures of 37 degrees F (3 degrees C), frequent low-accumulation snow, and icy winds to participate in these top events.  

In spring ( frühling ), the city opens up with warmer weather as the clouds open up (sometimes) to sunny skies and temperatures rise to 40 to 65 degrees F. Rain is still frequent, and there can be epic thunder and lightning storms, so bring your umbrella ( regenschirm )!

All of Germany lightens up in summer. The days are warm and long, with light lasting until 10 p.m. Temperatures are usually between 65 to 75 degrees F but can feel much hotter with the area's humidity and lack of air conditioning. People cope with visits to the parks and lakes and drinks at the biergarten .

In autumn ( herbst ), the days shorten, and the weather cools. Temperatures range from the low 40s to high 50s until late November, when the weather really begins to turn cold. Rainy days often happen, with low temperatures sometimes resulting in early snow flurries.

Crowds in Cologne

The fourth biggest city in Germany, Cologne has its fair share of visitors throughout the year.   Thousands of visitors crowd around the cathedral every day, staring up at its piercing spires with mouth agape and blindly bumping into each other. Other attractions in Cologne that draw a crowd include the cobbled streets of the Altstadt , views along the Rhine, the prestigious Philharmonie, and its many fine museums .

The top event of the year, Karneval , draws the largest crowds. It happens in February, typically the off-season for Germany , but it can be quite crowded in Cologne with hotels booked out and restaurants fully reserved. If you are planning on visiting during this time, reserve well in advance.

Christmas to Silvester is also a busy season in Cologne. The Christmas markets beneath the cathedral draw big crowds, and Silvester celebrations include fireworks and rowdy street parties. There is better security in recent years, but if you like things on the quiet side, avoid visiting during these events.

Top Festivals in Cologne

The Cologne calendar is full of events , but two festivals draw the city's biggest international crowds.

• Karneval in Cologne : Cologne is the home to its very own version of Mardi Gras. This joyful, silly celebration has a long history in Catholicism but is more party than piety. For this week of activities, visitors can expect street parades with pointed political commentary and spirited costume balls.
• Christmas in Cologne :  Christmas in Germany is a magical time, and Cologne is home to some of the country's best weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets). The markets open in late November after the first advent, and many run through New Year's Eve .

Cologne in Winter

Christmas consumes all of Germany from late November through December , and Cologne is no exception. Christmas markets, parties, and time with family dominate the season ending in a spectacular New Year (Silvester) celebration. Expect peak prices and booked out hotels and restaurants.

Popular sites are frequently closed for Christmas Eve, as this is a family-centered holiday. Expect closures of government offices, museums, and grocery stores on the national holidays of Dec. 24-26, as well as Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. Smaller shops may also close during this time.

Things quiet down after Jan. 1, but only until the biggest party of the season: Karneval! In February, practically every man, woman, and child celebrate a week of different events through costumes, parades, and festive events before Lent's observance. It is a time of decadence and excess with the consumption of many of the city's beloved Kölsch beers.

Events to check out: Christmas markets abound in Cologne. Take your pick of the best near the center or try and visit them all. For New Year's Eve, you can tip a glass of Sekt at midnight in your hotel or try to get on the list for one of the many nightlife venues in the city. For Karneval in February, the top event is Rosenmontag (Carnival Monday), where a parade makes its way through the city.

Cologne in Spring

The first days of spring remain chilly, but people are already eager to get outside. Expect to see people in the parks, biergartens, and lining up at the ice cream ( eis ) stands on the first sunny days. Join the Germans in their eagerness awaiting the arrival of the cherry blossoms.

Erster Mai (May 1) celebrations can result in chaotic demonstrations for labor rather than dancing around the maypole. Easter is a major holiday in Germany, though it is family-centric so expect to find things closed on the Friday and Monday surrounding Easter Sunday and perhaps further than that. This is also school holidays so expect higher than usual crowds at tourist attractions.

Events to check out: The awakening of the earth also means foodie delights for Germans in the form of white asparagus ( spargel ) and fruit wines .

Cologne in Summer

Sommer in Cologne is a wonderful time to enjoy the city's relaxing riverfront promenade or take a cruise, catch a movie at an outdoor cinema, go to one of the sandy beach bars, or walk Cologne’s green belt. And this is the ideal time to enjoy Cologne's Kölsch at a biergarten.

However, just as everywhere in Germany, this is a peak travel time, airfares, hotel rates, and even some attractions will be at their peak price. 

Events to check out:  Christopher Street Day (Gay Pride) in July draws half a million participants, second only to Berlin's festivities . Also, in July, there is Kölner Lichter with an impressive firework display on the Rhine. In August , there is the world’s largest computer games trade show, Gamescom .

Cologne in Fall

The colors of herbst (fall) bring about a cooling of the weather, a slow down after the busy tourist season, and raising a glass to local wine . While Oktoberfest dominates in Bavaria, this is a quieter shoulder season in Cologne. That said, the party vibe never quite leaves, as on Nov. 11 at 11:11, the planning for the next Karneval begins.

Events to check out:  Tag der deutschen Einheit (Day of German Unity) is a national holiday every Oct. 3 , which means closures of grocery stores and businesses and a celebration in a different city each year. The Köln Marathon is another big event that takes runners along the Rhine and by the Cathedral.

Every February, Cologne celebrates Carnival with a huge celebration that marks one of the most exciting times of year to be in the city.

August is the hottest month in Cologne with an average high temperature of 74 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) and an average low temperature of 57 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius).

February is the coldest month in Cologne with an average high temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius) and an average low temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius).

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Koln, Germany, Year Round." Retrieved Jan. 29, 2021.

Britannica. "Cologne | Description, Economy, Culture, & History." Retrieved Jan. 29, 2021.

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10 Reasons To Visit Cologne, Germany

A few reasons to visit Cologne, Germany while traveling in Europe !

Situated on the Rhine River in eastern Germany, Cologne is a beautiful city that is often overlooked by travelers.

Most backpackers prioritize the capital city of Berlin , or they head to Munich for the famous annual Oktoberfest.

But Cologne is another wonderful city in Germany that is worth checking out! I was lucky enough to spend a weekend here with my dad and the city left quite an impression on me.

Is Cologne Germany worth visiting?

Cologne Germany is absolutely worth visiting! The city is packed with culture, delicious multicultural food, and impressive architecture.

If you’re backpacking through Europe by train or bus, Cologne is conveniently located between popular cities like Brussels , Amsterdam , or Paris , and Berlin and other European cities further west.

So you can easily fit it into a trip around Europe , and I highly recommend you do so!

If you’re still not convinced, enjoy the following photos of the view while climbing the Cologne Cathedral, and a beautiful shot of my Dad posing in front of said Cathedral.

If that still doesn’t convince you, read on for 10 reasons to visit Cologne, Germany!

1.   The Cologne Cathedral

This is the most famous Cologne attraction, and easily the best place to visit in the city. If you only have one day in Cologne, make sure you visit this gigantic Catholic masterpiece.

Construction of the Cologne Cathedral began in 1248, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

There are over 500 steps to climb to the very top of the Cologne Cathedral, but the view is so worth it. When you get up to the spires, the stairs get a bit narrow and scary, but if I made it to the top alive, so can you!

• Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany
• Hours : Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sundays 1pm – 4pm
• Cost: Free to enter, 3 Euros to climb to the top

2. The Museums

Cologne has a rich history, and there are lots of interesting museums where you can educate yourself and learn some new things.

Art lovers should check out Museum Ludwig , which showcases a wide range of works from famous artists as well as indigenous and queer artists.

• Address:  Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Köln, Germany
• Hours : 10 am to 6 pm, closed Mondays
• Cost: 12 Euros

My Dad and I both love history, so we spent hours inside the Roman-Germanic Museum . This place is full of historic artifacts from all throughout the ages, and it’s fascinating to see so many old tools and artworks still preserved today.

• Address: Roncalliplatz 4, 50667 Köln, Germany
• Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, closed Mondays
• Cost: 8 Euros

Another interesting museum to visit in Cologne is the Farina Fragrance Museum . Ever heard of the phrase “Eau De Cologne”? This is actually the French phrase for “water of Cologne”, referring to perfume created in this part of Germany. You can learn all about it at the Fragrance Museum.

• Address: Obenmarspforten 21, 50667 Köln, Germany
• Hours: 10 am to 6pm
• Cost: 8 Euros on weekdays, 12 Euros on weekends
• Website: https://farina.org/visit-the-fragrance-museum/#

READ NEXT: Budget Traveler’s Guide to Travel Insurance

3. The Chocolate

Cologne has its own chocolate museum, and the chocolate is just so good that this deserved to be its own point on the list.

At the Chocolate Museum, you can learn about the entire history and process of chocolate making through the exhibitions, or just visit the cafe and indulge in some delicious treats.

My Dad and I bought a nice big bag of chocolate truffles and they were a dream.

• Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Köln, Germany
• Hours: 10am – 6pm
• Cost: Check the website because prices vary based on day and your age

4. The Breweries

Germany has some of the best beer in the world! I say that because in general, I hate beer. Sorry, but it’s the truth. I try it often and just never like it, EXCEPT in Germany. There’s been a few times in Germany that I can actually drink a whole beer instead of just a couple of sips.

Anyway, one of the best reasons to visit Cologne is all the brewhouses in the city where you can drink local beer and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere.

A fun way to hit all the best breweries in Cologne is to do a guided tour with a local expert.

This Brewery Tour from Get Your Guide costs only 25 Euros and takes you to 3 of the best brewhouses where you get drinks at each place included in the price.

This tour has over 600 great reviews from other travelers, so it’s a fun way to experience Cologne and its beer!

5. The Old Town

You’re going to have to walk around the city a lot to balance out all the beer and chocolate you’re consuming in Cologne!

Luckily, the city is incredibly scenic, especially the Old Town. The historical center of Cologne is set right on the edge of the Rhine River and is full of quaint houses and lovely architecture.

You’ll find lots of colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and charming public squares in the Old Town.

6. Christmas Markets

Definitely one of the best reasons to visit Cologne, Germany is the Christmas Markets.

If you have the chance to visit Cologne in December, do it! You’ll get to witness the magic of the Christmas season.

Open-air markets pop up all throughout the streets, selling hot mulled wine and sugary Christmas treats. All the decorations and twinkling lights make the city glow like a scene from a snow globe.

Find my ultimate guide to traveling the world on a budget here !

7. The Rhine River

Sure, most major cities are set on a river. So what makes it so special?

Cruising along the Rhine River by boat is a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective.

You can book a Rhine River Sightseeing Cruise on Get Your Guide . This tour has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from over 200 travelers, so it’s definitely a good one.

8. The Multicultural Food

Germany is a super multicultural country, especially in the big cities. If you’re an adventurous eater, the food is one of the best reasons to visit Cologne.

My Dad and I ate pretty much everything except German food in Germany!

We ate Indian curry, Lebanese falafels, and hummus, and saw many other International restaurants.

You can find everything from Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese, to Italian and French, to health-conscious vegan cafes and special gluten-free restaurants.

Read next: 22 Solo Travel Tips

9. The Botanic Gardens

If you’re looking to escape the city streets and spend a day surrounded by greenery, the Cologne Botanic Gardens are the place to be.

This massive green space is full of unique plants, spacious lawns, and walking trails so you can really immerse yourself in the natural world.

• Address: Schillingsrotter Str. 100, 50996 Köln, Germany
• Hours: 9 am to 8 pm every day

10. The Entertainment

Cologne is a super lively and vibrant city full of fun things to do.

Though my Dad and I stuck to just the general exploring and eating while we were there, I’ve spoken to some other locals and travelers who rave about the fun nightlife in Cologne.

From live music to comedy shows to drag shows to crazy bars, dance clubs, and pubs, the nightlife is one of the main reasons to visit Cologne if you love to party!

I’ve heard someone recommend a Comedy Bus Tour , where you drive around on a guided tour of the city for 1.5 hours while the local comedian/tour guide makes you cry from laughing so hard.

So there are 10 reasons to visit Cologne, Germany!

Seeing as I only explored Cologne for a weekend, I’m sure there are many more Cologne attractions that I didn’t get the chance to see.

But I loved my weekend in Cologne, and I’d love to spread the word to more travelers about how awesome this place is. So don’t skip it while backpacking around Europe!

Before you travel to Germany…

• Visit iVisa.com to see if you need a visa
• Check out Squaremouth Insurance for a cheap but reliable travel insurance plan
• Consider trying a work exchange so you can meet locals and get free accommodation

For more travel tips and inspiration around Central Europe, check out these articles!

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Best Things To Do in Cologne, Germany

12 of the best things to do in cologne, germany.

I t’s the city known for its soaring cathedral, an iconic part of the skyline, and seen from many a nearby town. It’s Cologne, the city nestled in almost the center of Germany, known for its cathedral, its shopping, and the multi-colored annual spectacle that is the Cologne Carnival. There are so many things to do in Cologne, you should definitely add it to your list for your next trip to Germany.

So, if you’re set on visiting the city of Köln, where do you start? Whether you plan to spend 1 day in Cologne or more, you won’t get bored, we promise! We count down all the best things to do in Cologne as well as a bit on the history and, of course, the best time to go!

Extra Tip: Consider getting the Cologne Card . It costs less than $10 per day and gives you free public transport and lots of discounts around the city. Those savings can add up quickly and it will help you save some money. Click here to buy the Cologne Card >>

A word on the history of Cologne

Now before we dive right into all the wonderful attractions and key sights that you’ll find in this modern German city, it’s worth taking a quick dip into its history, which has of course made the city what it is today. The city found its beginnings in Roman times, founded in 50AD, and given the name, ‘Colonia’.

The home of many an imperial Roman governor, over the years Cologne grew to become a major trading hub for the Romans. Later, it fell to the French in 785, and was dubbed an archbishopric by Charlemagne . If you want to learn more about the Roman history in Cologne, you can take an interesting walking tour .

Cologne continued as a key trading post for many centuries as well as a center of enlightenment, with Europe’s first city university constructed there, and of industry, with many large industries settling in the city’s confines.

Unfortunately, World War II decimated the city. Around 90 percent was destroyed (although luckily the Cathedral remained mostly intact), and the city had to be rebuilt from almost the ground up. This reconstruction is very telling when you visit Cologne nowadays. The city – while it does have some beautiful buildings and churches – is pretty marked by post-war architecture.

Check out the Cologne Cathedral

No Cologne itinerary is complete with spending at least an hour (or two) walking around the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. It’s the most visited attraction in all of Germany for good reason!

Located right at the heart of the city, the Cologne Cathedral is a soaring gothic-style church which is actually still the tallest twin-spired church in the world, plus the second tallest church in Europe. First constructed in 1248 (but only finished in 1880), the church – known as the Kölner Dom – is a historic landmark in the city.

And while it’s beautiful from the outside, it’s equally exquisite on the insider. With a series of gorgeous stained glass windows, a high altar constructed out of black marble, and a series of tombs. There is so much to see that you need at least an hour inside. Definitely make sure you visit this iconic German landmark .

Shop til you Drop

Now while this might not seem like a good claim to fame, it’s said that Cologne is home to the ‘busiest shopping street in Europe’. The two streets of Hohestrasse and Breitestrasse are central to the city’s bustling trade. You will find everything from large department stores to small boutique affairs flanking both streets.

Go there on a Saturday and you’ll be jostling for space but you could always take time out at one of the many café’s. Stop to tuck into a takeaway pretzel while watching the masses meander by.

Walk around the Fischmarkt

It’s now relatively ‘famous’ as one of the most Instagrammable places in Germany, but the Köln Fischmarkt (Cologne Fishmarket) Is more than just a good photo op.

This small district, set in the shadow of the nearby St Martin’s Church is where the fish market was located back in the 13th century. Boasting a few buildings with brightly-colored facades, the area is a great place to take time out for lunch, or even just to sit on the banks of the nearby Rhein (Rhine) river.

Get yourself an ice-cream from one of the many gelaterias, sit in the sun, and relax. Have a seat at Herings Im Martinswinkel, one of the best little restaurants tucked away there, to eat a pot of herrings for lunch.

Meander around the museums

Like it’s nearby counterpart, Bonn , Cologne loves delving into its history, and so has a number of wonderful museums sprinkled across its suburbs.

There are really three major ones that you need to visit, with the best one usually considered the Museum Ludwig. The Ludwig is more of an art museum, featuring both classic and contemporary German artists. You can also find some other collections, including a wonderful series of Picasso works as well as pop art pieces by Warhol and Lichenstein.

Art fans should also check out the Wallraf Richartz Museum which is more dedicated to pieces from the medieval period.

Those with more of a history bent might enjoy the Roman-Germanic Museum. It is an archaeological museum where you can trace the beginnings of Cologne, from the Roman settlement of ‘Colonia’.

Visit the Home of Perfume

Did you know that perfume or ‘eau de cologne’ was invented in Cologne? Directly translated as ‘water from Cologne’ an Italian living in the city in the 18th century created it. He started to sell it from around 1792 out of a small store in the city center.

The store – 4711 – is still there today and you can not only go there to grab your bottle of the stuff but can also sign up for a tour if you have the time.

Put a lock on the Love Lock Bridge

While the Hohenzollern Bridge, which spans the enormous Rhein river, might not be as famous as love lock bridges elsewhere in Europe, its still a great activity to walk over it and affix your custom padlock to the grate.

You can buy a lock at one of the many little stores within the train station, situated right next to the Cathedral, who will engrave and personalize it for you.

Kick it at the Karneval

For about a week each year, usually around the end of February, the city of Cologne is turned into a brightly-tinted, fancy dress spectacle as it is the epicenter of ‘Carnival’ or ‘Karneval’.

Nearly everyone in the town dresses up in spectacular costumes from the Thursday (Weiberfastnacht) until the following Ash Wednesday. The celebrations start early in the morning each day. There are hundreds of parades and festivities, and go late into every night, sometimes 24/7.

Even the gelaterias replace their tubs of ice-cream with bottles of beer, as revelers stop by to fuel up before their next party. If you can make it during the February season, do try to book well ahead. The city of about 1 million inhabitants swells to about 2 million during the Karneval period.

Go Brewery Hopping

Now Cologne is very, very serious about its city brew: Kolsch. This golden nectar, served in uniquely small 200ml glasses called ‘stanges’ is a matter of pride for the city, and many come from surrounding towns just to drink it.

If you’re a beer fan, then definitely carve out some time to hop between then different ‘brauhaus’ in the city. Top of the list are Goffel Brauhaus, Früh am Dom and Peter’s Brauhaus. Actually the last one is a great place to eat lunch; a traditional brewery with a massive restaurant where you can tuck into famous dishes like Schweinhaxe (pork knuckle), with a gigantic dollop of mashed potatoes and a side of sauerkraut.

You can also go on a Brewery tour, if drinking alone does not sound like a lot of fun. Book your tour here >>

Learn about Chocolate at the Lindt Museum

Its official name is the Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum but most locals know the riverside museum as the ‘Lindt Chocolate Museum’. You will find the Swiss chocolatier’s branding (and delicious products) prominently featured throughout. Perched on the edge of the Rhein river, the museum was first opened back in 1993 by Hans Imhoff but later forged a partnership with Lindt in 2006.

A tour of the museum takes you through the history of chocolate, including some fun interactive exhibits. The museum even has an indoor greenhouse to replicate the best conditions for chocolate to grow. You can even get your own custom chocolate made! Then, kick back with a toasty hot chocolate or a slice of very rich cake at the on-site café or just browse through the many sweet treats at the store.

Eat Kebabs on Keupstrasse

You might not know it, but Germany has a huge Turkish influence. About 3 million people of Turkish descent live in the country and many in Cologne. Turkish immigrants flocked to the city as traders during the Ottoman Empire. More recently, they came to help the country’s labor crisis during the 1960’s.

If you’re a fan of Turkish culture and cuisine, it’s worth winding your way across the river to Mulheim. It is considered a key bastion for the Turks in the city. There you just need to walk down the main street, Keupstrasse, to find Turkish bakeries, dressmakers, and kebab stores. You can sit for a few hours, drink sweet Turkish tea, and take in the atmosphere.

Take a River Cruise

So much of Cologne’s trading history but also its current activities are tied to the mighty Rhein River that runs through it. So its definitely worth getting onto the water of the river itself, by taking a cruise.

Many depart from the banks near the Cathedral, and usually take around an hour or two. You’ll be able to see the major attractions like the Kölner Dom, the chocolate museum and the churches of Altstadt (Old Town), from a different angle.

Many river cruises also go further afield. You can hop off in Dusseldorf to do some more shopping and eat sushi, or to Bonn to learn about the birthplace of Beethoven.

Eat Zimtbrezeln and drink Glühwein at the Christmas Market

The city of Cologne is usually best enjoyed during the summer when the beer gardens and cafes swing into action. However, there is something unique about going in the wintry December period, if only for one of the amazing Christmas markets !

The Cologne Christmas market (Kölner Weihnachtsmarkt), is one of the largest in Germany and attracts visitors from nearby cities as well as international visitors.

You’ll have all the stuff you expect from a German festive market: German gingerbread (Lebkuchen), mulled wine and lovely little trinkets and handicrafts to buy. But you should definitely be trying the signature Zimtbrezeln. They are essentially a mix between a salty pretzel and a cinnamon roll that will have you queueing up for more!

Browse the Boutiques of the Belgian Quarter

If the main shopping streets of Cologne didn’t scratch your shopping itch, then you should definitely make a turn at the Belgian Quarter or “Belgisches Viertel”. Possibly the ‘coolest’ place to be seen in Cologne, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with very trendy locals, all sipping their flat white coffees and eating Belgian frites.

The Belgian Quarter is known for its small, eclectic art galleries like KUNST&So, a smattering of lovely pubs and bars and loads of high-end, designer boutiques. Here you’ll find the latest threads from German designers, to put into your luggage for your return trip.

When to go to Cologne

Now if you can’t make it to Cologne for the Carnival, and don’t want to brave the wintry weather to see the colorful Christmas market in action, you should definitely go in the spring or summer months.

The beer gardens and cafes usually open in May, which means that you’ll find a city buzzing with activity yet never really overrun with tourists. The city is therefore usually best visited between May and July, with August being slightly humid.

Now that you’re convinced that you need to go to Cologne to soak up all the sights, your challenge will be which to prioritize first! Whether it’s rambling along the Rhine to take in the spectacular river views, stuffing your luggage with your newly-purchased wares from the shopping streets or just people-watching from the steps of the Cologne Cathedral, as the masses walk on by, Cologne is a German city with something for everyone.

Best things to do in Cologne, Germany was written by Lee Nelson. Lee is a wandering writer and one half of the Travel Scribes , a blog dedicated to travelling, writing and everything social media. When she’s not quenching her thirst for wanderlust, she is most often found behind her laptop, bashing out blog posts and bingeing on cheesy cat videos. Find her on Instagram , Pinterest , and Facebook here.

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Visit Cologne Germany | Travel Guide to Plan the Perfect Trip

Here is a guide to everything you need to know about visiting Cologne, Germany. From accommodation and things to do, to how to get around within the city. 

Cologne is a beautiful city where a bustling modern environment complements historic architecture. Köln, as the city is called in German, winds along with the Rhine river through Western Germany. 

It can be stressful to plan a holiday in a new place, which is the last thing you want! After all, holidays are all about relaxing while experiencing something new and interesting. If you’re wondering how to plan a perfect trip to Cologne, this guide will tell you everything you need to know. 

These are the things I researched and wanted to know when I was planning my trip to Cologne.

Even if you’re a seasoned traveller, these tips will come in handy. Read on to learn everything you need to know when planning a trip to Cologne!

How to Get to Cologne

Of course, your mode of transportation depends on where you’re coming from. If you’re visiting Cologne from within Europe, you could simply take a train.

For example, an Amsterdam to Cologne train only takes 4 hours, and they run regularly. While this mode of transportation is certainly longer than a flight, there might be less hassle and stress involved. You can also see the countryside as you travel along.

But if you want, or if you’re coming from further than the European reaches, flying is the way.

You can check Skyscanner for flights, as this site has the best comparison capacity and directs you to the best prices. 

If you’re wondering how to get from the airports to Cologne city centre, don’t worry, it’s easy.

There’s a train that goes directly from the airport to the city centre, and it only takes 14 minutes. It also goes 3 times an hour.

How to Get Around Cologne

Within Cologne, you will mainly make use of trams and buses. The public transportation systems throughout Germany is excellent, and you’ll have no need to rent a car, or even often take taxis. 

You can download the DB Navigator app to help you find the closest bus, tram, subway and train station, and the timetables. The app can map out the best route for you, so it’s really easy to explore Cologne.

You can get a week or a day ticket, if you intend to move around a lot, or a single route ticket.

You don’t feed your ticket into the machine in order to get in, as there are no blockades. But you do have to validate your ticket so that it shows where you got in and off.

Interestingly, Germany uses the honour system for much of its transport. But we recommend respecting that system, as there are regularly plain-clothes controllers who will ask everyone for their tickets. You can get slapped with a €62 ($68) fine and some serious embarrassment. 

How Many Days to Spend in Cologne 

To really experience the best parts of Cologne at your own pace, then I would say book a trip to Cologne for 3 days.

I have written a more detailed guide on how long to spend in Cologne , filled with 2 to 6 days Cologne itinerary suggestions.

Cologne Germany Weather – How the Season will Affect Your Trip

This historical city is charming in all seasons, so the best time to visit Cologne is dependent on your personal preferences.

But let’s take a look at what to expect in the different seasons so that you can see what will suit you best.

Cologne in Winter

If you’re looking to enjoy the Gluhwein and stroll through the winter Christmas markets, with the chance of a white blanketing, then winter is for you. Consider planning your trip between December and February. 

These months are rather icy, and the trees are bare of their leaves. But if you’re a fan of heavy coats and visible breath, it’s perfect.

And you can always pop into a pub to warm up with some spiced hot wine or the German staple – a beer. 

If you plan your Cologne trip during these months, be sure to bring a very warm coat and thermal clothing.

You’ll also appreciate your boots and gloves. But layers are helpful because the indoors are kept very warm, even on the buses and trains.

Cologne in Spring

During the spring months of March to May you’ll find the trees turning green once again, and bright flowers all over.

This is, of course, typical for spring. But the very distinct seasons in Germany each introduce something unique.

In Cologne, it brings people outdoors a lot more. The days lengthen and it no longer gets dark at 16:30, like in the depths of winter. This season is perfect for explorations and busy, active days.

If your trip to Cologne is during spring you should bring good walking shoes and warm clothes. It’s a good idea to pack in maybe one t-shirt and shorts, but the weather will still be cool.

Cologne in Summer

When summer rolls around in June until August, you’ll really see Cologne come into its own. Summer is most Germans’ favourite season for a reason.

There are so many things to do in Cologne during the summer months. Open-air music concerts and performances, outdoor eating and drinking, public swimming pools and ice cream parlours are some of the best activities to engage in. It’s all great fun.

And because Germans seem to try their best to stay outdoors during the summer season, you’ll see plenty of people in good humour. Restaurants and bars even extend their seating to the outdoors and stay busy late into the night.

If you’re planning a trip to Cologne in summer, you should bring mainly light clothes, with maybe one pair of jeans and a jersey. The summer months are warm to hot, sometimes reaching over 30 degrees Celsius.

It also stays warm into the evening. So you should be happy with just a few cosy things, in case the cold hits.

Cologne in Autumn/ Fall

Last but not least, is Autumn from September till November. It’s a beautiful season with the many trees turning varying shades of red and gold. Even some of the buildings are affected by this seasonal colour change if they’re covered in ivy.

During the autumn months, the days slowly become shorter. And you’ll see the locals try to get the most out of the last bit of warmth and spend lots of time in the parks.

If you’ve decided to plan your trip to Cologne during Autumn, you should bring clothes that are geared towards cool weather.

Jerseys, jeans and stockings to go with your dresses should do it. Maybe one warm jacket, but not the one you reserve for the depths of winter.

If you’re looking for more information on the seasons and what to expect, check out my information on the best time to visit Cologne.

READ MY GUIDE ON HOW TO SPEND WINTER IN COLOGNE

Things to Do in Cologne – The Local Must Do’s

This is a question I all have for every destination I’m lucky enough to visit. What must you do in Cologne Germany? What, if you don’t take this chance to experience it, will mean that you didn’t have a full experience of Cologne?

We’ll answer these questions, ranging from the worthy tourist trap (some of them really pull everyone in for a reason), to the little known gems.

But one of the best things about Cologne is that you can just walk down the street and take in the sights. And have a great time doing so.

There are a number of free attractions in Cologne if you’re on a tight budget, or saving more for beer. In fact, you’ll find that almost all of the top sights in cologne are free. They just require a little walking.

Climb the Cologne Cathedral

The most famous attraction in Cologne is the Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom. This gothic cathedral is the third tallest in the world, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction of the cathedral started all the way back in 1248.

And the architecture and incredible attention to detail is an incredible testament to its creators. 

You can walk up the 500 steps of the tower for an unrivalled view of the old city and the Rhine. Just being inside the cathedral and gazing through the meticulous stained glass windows is an impressive experience.

In front of this monument, talented artists perform their original music. Besides the cathedral, the impressive train station delivers people from all over Europe. And five minutes walk from its walls is the famous Rhine River.

There are many cool things to do in Cologne, and the best of them are right outside the Cologne Cathedral.

Cologne Walking Tour and Beer Tasting

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about what you’re seeing and to experience things you would likely never have spotted. History adds such a richness to any trip. 

You can also meet fellow travellers while you’re at it! The walk ends at a brewery, where you’ll try the traditional (and delicious) Kolsch beer.

If you’re only in Cologne for a short time and you’re wondering what to see in Cologne in 2 or 3 days, this is the perfect way to pack in some good sightseeing. Check out the tour on Getyourguide.com

Explore the Old Town

If it’s a sunny day, you should walk along the Rhine river and take in the sights. You could pick up a delicious german pastry from one of the many bakeries.

Along the cobbled streets are mouth-watering toasted almond-covered pretzels hanging in open air bakeries.

The bees might surround them in the shop, but that just shows that they are the absolute best. They’re called nougat pretzels and come highly recommended.

With your treat in hand, you can just meander through the Old Town. You will come across museums, old houses, boutiques and galleries. And you can pick up on the vibrancy of everyday Cologne life.

Consider ending your path at Cologne’s Old Town Hall, the Kölner Rathaus. It dates back more than 900 years and is the oldest public building of its sort in Germany. The Old Town is one of the things to see in Cologne.

Explore Old Town Cologne Germany A Guide For First-Time Visitor’s

Walk Across the Deutzer Bridge

This is the perfect way to get a fantastic view of the cathedral and old city. The Rhine is also an important feature of Cologne, so it’s great to take it all in at once.

The bridge delivers the best sunset views over the city. Don’t forget to take your camera!

If you’re looking for more unique things to do in Cologne , there are so many more hidden sights to find.

You’ll also find that there are many non-touristy things to do in Cologne if you’re wanting to get away from the crowds.

Best Day Trips from Cologne

If your trip to Cologne, Germany is more than a few days long, you might want to consider branching out a little.

After all, it’s so easy to even get a Cologne to Brussels train , for example, that you can certainly travel to surrounding areas.

And though there are so many places to visit in Cologne Germany, there are also incredible places to experience nearby that you won’t want to miss. So here are some of the best day trips outside of Cologne.

Ahr Valley Wine Hike

Germany might not be known for its wine like it is for its beer, but in the Ahr Valley, they know how to make a great red.

This wine region is known internationally for its spätburgunder (pinot noir) wine. You can explore the region by taking an easy hike on the Red Wine Trail.

It’s a beautiful way to experience the vineyards. And if you get thirsty, just walk down into the nearest town for another glass or two.

I recommend starting your ambling from the town of Altenahr. You can get to Altenahr in 1 hour and 45 minutes from Cologne with public transport.

Carolus Thermen in Aachen

The tradition of bathhouses go back over 2000 years in Germany, so experiencing one is a great way to soak in (excuse the pun) German culture. And Carolus Thermen is a beautiful, artful bathhouse that’s sure to leave you feeling blissful.

There are indoor and outdoor thermal baths, a sauna area for adults only, and a spa with wellness treatments and massages.

So if you’re feeling a little run down or just in the mood for pampering, this is the perfect day trip for you.

However, if you’re not so into nudity, you might be rather uncomfortable here. German saunas are textile-free zones.

So although you must wear a bathing suit in the pools, you cannot in the saunas. You also need to shower before entering the complex, which is a great hygiene rule.

Prices are dependent on how long you want to stay, and if you want access to the sauna (which you do). The spa also has separate costs. You can find all of the prices here .

Monschau Historic Town

Monschau is one of the most picturesque old towns that you’ll find in Germany. Built along a winding river, half-timbered houses line the lanes, with flower boxes in their windows.

You can simply meander down the beautiful lanes, preferably with a baked good or ice cream in hand. Or you could take a boat tour, or even do a little white water rafting. 

There are plenty of things to do and see in this charming town. There is also a thirteenth-century castle that looks over the town.

It is rather austere and partially ruined, but if you’re visiting in summer, you might be able to catch one of the operas and summer concerts that are held within it.

Monschau is around 2 hours away from Cologne via public transport, so it makes for a great day away.

Your Cologne Budget | How Much You Should Save

While Germany is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, Cologne is reasonably affordable if you are mindful about your spending. As any budget traveller knows, things add up quickly if you’re not careful. 

Luckily, many of the best things to do in Cologne Germany are free. And eating in or buying beer from the store is a great trick to make things cheaper, if not quite as fun. 

And of course, your budget for Cologne depends on how long you plan to stay, and how frugally or extravagantly you want to live while there. But if you’re asking “how much should I budget for a trip to Cologne?”, then here are the answers. 

The average traveller spends €99 ($107) a day. So, although you can certainly aim to decrease that amount if your budget is tight, this is the number you should keep in mind when planning a trip to Cologne.

For example, if you’re planning to live very frugally, you can get away with €36 ($40) a day. But this means a lot of walking, a hostel bed, and street corner food. This could be an adventure in itself, but it’s not for everyone. Personally, I like a little luxury.

So, going back to the average traveller, you should budget around €700 ($750) a week in Cologne.

This includes accommodation, food, tips, transportation and entertainment, among a couple of other things. But it doesn’t include alcohol! 

So if you’re wondering how many days to spend in Cologne, keep these figures in mind. But whether you can stay for three days or three weeks, travelling to Cologne will be such a memorable experience on any budget.

Best Places to Eat in Cologne

If you want to make the most of your trip it’s important to know where to eat in Cologne. German food is a great drawing card all on its own. So, here are three of the very best restaurants in Cologne’s Old City.

Bei Oma Kleinmann is an eclectic German restaurant that bases its menu on the glorious schnitzel. It’s found in the Kwartier Latäng (the Latin Quarter) which is a busy hub known for its live music venues, art-house cinemas, cocktail bars and indie theatres. During the summer months, it extends its seating outdoors so you can bask in the sun while you munch on one of Germany’s best inventions.

Gaststätte Lommerzheim is an excellent pub and restaurant. You can order their famous pork chops while sipping on some pale ale or lager. And this wonderfully old-school pub is also well-priced, with a comfortable, busy atmosphere.

Menz burger is the place to go if you’re wanting a delicious handmade burger and fries. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the food will have you wanting to move in. The portions are also huge, so you’ll go home happy and full.

Elaborate gelaterias open their doors all over the city during summer. If you’ve never tried spaghetti ice cream, this is your chance! It might not sound appealing, but you’ll be digging your spoon into cream covered in spiralized vanilla gelato, topped with strawberry sauce and white chocolate shavings. Delicious and unique.

If you want to find more wonderful restaurants at which to embrace the German food culture, check out the best places to eat in Cologne .

Places to Stay in Cologne

If you’re visiting for the first time and wondering where to book your accommodation for the best experience, you should stay in the Altstadt (Old City). From here you can easily catch transport to all the best things to see, and you’ll be immersed in German culture.

Although over 70% of the city was destroyed in WW2, there are still some incredible architectural landmarks that remain. In Cologne’s Altstadt the narrow streets are flanked by picturesque old houses and buildings.

So, staying in this area means that, even if you just want to leave your accommodation for a quick bite to eat, you’ll be surrounded by interesting sights. And you’ll be happy to find tons of restaurants and pubs!

Luxury Hotel | The Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom

If you’re happy to splash out on the perfect accommodation, book in at the Excelsior. This luxury 5-star hotel has been family-run since 1863 and is very much part of Cologne’s rich history.

The location could not be more ideal, right opposite the Cologne Cathedral. It’s also just two minutes away from Cologne Main Station, and there is an airport shuttle. So, you won’t be dragging bags around looking for your hotel.

There are award-winning restaurants located within the hotel for you to dine at. And in the evening, after you’ve spent your day sightseeing in Cologne, Germany, you can retire to a piano bar that plays live piano music and serves wonderful cocktails.

The view is like nothing else, and the staff are very warm and welcoming. So if you’re looking for perfection, you can check rates here .

Mid-Range Hotel | 25Hours Hotel The Circle

It might have an odd name, but this hotel is stylish, modern, and pretty perfectly located. You can wake up, enjoy their scrumptious breakfast, and step out into the vibrancy of Cologne’s Old City.

If you’re not in the mood to leave the hotel, each room has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels (so you don’t have to practice your German too much), and WiFi. There is also a restaurant and a bar in the hotel, so there is no need to step outside if the weather isn’t to your liking.

So if comfort and style at a reasonable price appeal to you, check the rates here .

Budget Hotel | Cologne Downtown Hostel

If your budget is tight, or if you want to save more money towards beer and pretzels (leaning into the stereotype for just a moment), then a hostel could be perfect.

You won’t find privacy or luxury here, but the vibrancy of a hostel can be a wonderful addition to any vacation. You’ll meet travellers from all over the world, and you’ll certainly save your money.

This hostel is located in the heart of the Old City, and very close to attractions like the Museum Ludwig and Romano-Germanic Museum. The Cologne Chocolate Museum is also just down the road, yum!

If this appeals to you, or if you’re really just interested in a place to rest your head between adventures, you can check the rates here .

If you want to look at more neighbourhoods or if you have more specific requirements, here is a more comprehensive list of the best places to stay in Cologne .

Most Interesting Books About Cologne, Germany

Only in Cologne: A Guide to Unique Locations, Hidden Corners and Unusual Objects is a wonderful tool to find the hidden sights of Cologne. It’ll allow you to see the city from such a unique perspective.

Sometimes it’s near impossible to find everything that a local would know. But lucky for us, this book contains all the local knowledge of Cologne’s best-kept secrets. Find the book here .

Rick Steves Germany 2020 delves into the whole of Germany. But Germany is a fascinating country, and Rick Steves captures the very best parts of it.

If you want to know more about Germany, check out this travel guide here .

This book can help you get to know Cologne, or explore Germany further. Or it can simply make for an interesting read while you plan and travel to Cologne. There are all sorts of helpful tips and tricks in it to help you make the best of your travels. 

Visit Cologne Summary 

Cologne has a wonderful vibrancy at any time of the year. Not even the snow can keep down the inhabitants of this city. It might just drive them into the comfortable pubs to warm themselves with German beer and Gluhwein.

There is so much to do in this charming, historic city. If you have a pair of walking shoes and a hearty appetite, you are sure to make the most of your Cologne Germany travels.

I trust that you’ve found this Cologne tourist guide helpful! You’re sure to have a wonderful, well-planned holiday with these Cologne travel tips on hand.

Now you know what to visit in Cologne Germany!

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