cologne travel guide

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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

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

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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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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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Experience Cologne on the water

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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Accommodation options for every taste

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

Accessibility

Cologne barrier-free - Important info for your trip

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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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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Cologne (Köln) Area Travel Guide

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

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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Everything you need to plan the perfect trip yourself!

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.

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

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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Cologne Travel Guide: Is Cologne Worth Visiting? [2023]

Cologne is one of the most historic cities in Germany. Stretching all the way back to the times of the Roman Empire, Cologne has been a city of great regional significance for quite a long time. Its location on the Rhine River made it a strategic location for both militaries and businesses, and pieces of each part of its extensive history are still on display to this day.

This post will cover everything you need to know about planning a trip to Cologne and will answer the pressing question “Is Cologne worth visiting?”

Best Things to Do in Cologne

Cologne is a city with an extremely diverse past. This past has led to the formation of several really unique places to check out during your visit. From astounding architecture to mouthwatering treats, this list of the best things to do in Cologne has a little something for everyone.

1. Visit the Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom in German, is easily the most iconic spot in Cologne. It is one of the most epic churches in all of Europe. The inside is just as grand as the outside.

The cathedral’s construction began almost 800 years ago, and its grandeur has persisted throughout those eight centuries without letting up. Many travelers plan a trip to Cologne just to see the cathedral!

The church deserves a visit whether you are Catholic or not. But if you are interested, it is also an incredible place to attend mass. The acoustics are unreal.

If that isn’t really your speed, think about visiting the crypt underneath, were several kings and emperors and their families are buried. The Cologne Cathedral has things that would intrigue anyone. Its grandeur alone earns it the top spot on this list of the best things to do in Cologne.

2. Indulge at the Cologne Chocolate Museum

If you have a sweet tooth, the Cologne Chocolate Museum is a place you really can’t miss . This museum is the result of a new owner’s creativity a few decades ago. He wanted to transform the traditional chocolate factory into a means of educating and preserving history alongside the chocolate production.

The chocolate factory itself is still running. So, a visit to the Cologne Chocolate Museum provides the chance to learn about the history of chocolate, watch it being produced, and even create your own chocolate bar to take home. This is a great activity to fill up an itinerary and definitely belongs on the list of the best things to do in Cologne.

3. Absorb the Stellar Views from the Cologne Cable Car

There is a lot of beauty to absorb in Cologne, and every angle of the city gives you a whole new perspective on it. Every block and alley offers its own charm. You could wander endlessly and never run out of charming sights to see.

Still, if the downtown views themselves get boring or you seek to see the whole city from a bird’s-eye view, you need to check out the cable car. Cologne’s cable car is about 75 years old, and it was the first cable car in Europe to cross a river.

Over those 75 years, the cable car has carried almost 20 million passengers and has earned the reputation as the safest means of transportation in Cologne due to its flawless safety record. For more information about the Cologne cable car, or Seilbahn in German, visit the Cologne cable car company’s website.

4. Learn about Cologne’s Troubled Past at the NS Documentation Center

The NS Documentation Center is not a fun place to visit, but it is definitely an important one. This building was used as the central headquarters of the Cologne Gestapo throughout the Nazi era. Since the end of that dark chapter in history, the building has been used as a vessel of preserving this history so that its horrible effects are never forgotten.

The museum has several floors and is highly educational, but there is none more famous or humbling than the basement. The basement was used as a prison and torture facility for over a decade, and it is considered to be one of the best-preserved Nazi detention centers in the world.

The carvings and writings on the walls of the confinement cells are still fully intact, and the horrific hatred that the Nazis held towards these people is visibly sickening. This is not the most elaborate or sizable Holocaust museum I have visited, but it is certainly one of the realest and most humbling.

I love history, and I think that learning about this dark part of the city’s past is one of the best things to do in Cologne. This museum is the best place to start. For more information about the NS Documentation Center, visit the museum’s website .

5. Admire Fine Art at the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums

While we are not devoted art lovers, we certainly appreciate a fine collection of artwork. The Wallraf-Richartz Museum and the Ludwig Museum are exactly that, and are the two best art museums that Cologne has to offer.

The building that they are housed in is new and marvelous in and of itself, but the artworks housed within it are worth a fortune as well.

The most notable artists whose works are housed in these museums are Rembrandt, Manet, Slevogt, Liebermann, and Renoir. There is no shortage of other high quality works on display. Each of these museums focuses on curating a different style of artwork, and there are also several other museums located within the building.

Visiting these museums is by far one of the best things to do in Cologne, especially for art lovers.

6. Enjoy a Dinner Cruise on the Rhine River

I personally love fine meals and having an excuse to dress up. Dinner cruises often tend to be the perfect opportunity. When you look into the best river cruises in the world, ones on the Rhine River and the Danube River are often at the top of the list.

Cologne is located directly on the Rhine river. This offers a great chance for you to take advantage of the romantic ambiance that a dinner cruise can offer.

Whenever I am in a city that sits along a river, I love exploring options for dinner cruises. In addition to Cologne, have been on dinner cruises on the Vltava River in Prague , the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh , the Seine River in Paris , the Huangpu River in Shanghai , and more. Each time is a unique and enjoyable experience, and I highly recommend looking into a river cruise on the Rhine if you have the time!

How to Get to Cologne

Flying to cologne.

To start, I’ll answer the question of how to get to Cologne from an international origin. I’ll talk about domestic and close international travel afterwards.

If you are far enough away that you need to fly to Cologne – which is most visitors – you have several different airport choices to utilize. They are Cologne Bonn International Airport (CGN), Dusseldorf International Airport (DUS), and Frankfurt International Airport (FRA).

Cologne Bonn International Airport (CGN)

Cologne Bonn International Airport (CGN) is the easiest and simplest in terms of landing and getting to Cologne . It is Cologne’s airport, after all, so it ought to be easy. Cologne Bonn International Airport is where I flew into, and it was a very practical and easy option.

If money isn’t a major restraint for you, I’d absolutely just find the best flight into Cologne Bonn airport and call it a day. There are not going to be many (if any) direct flights from anywhere outside of Europe, but you can get to this airport from most places in the world with only one layover.

Once you arrive, the city is only about 10 minutes away from the airport. You can either take a bus or an Uber.

Dusseldorf International Airport (DUS)

This airport a great option if you are looking to save time or money on the flight itself. Dusseldorf has the third busiest airport in all of Germany. This means that you have a great chance of landing good flight options or deals.

Dusseldorf is going to have a lot more direct international flight routes available. The size of the airport could make your overall airfare decrease as well. In my guide t o finding cheap flights I wrote about the benefits of hub airports, and getting to Cologne via the Dusseldorf airport is often a solid example of that.

This is what I would choose to do if coming from outside of Europe, but that is because I look for the most practical flight option.

To me, a cheaper flight is always better as long as it doesn’t double the trip time. Dusseldorf is only a one-hour train ride from Cologne. A one-hour train from Dusseldorf coupled with a direct flight is probably faster than a flight with a layover, anyway.

Frankfurt International Airport (FRA)

This airport might actually be the best option of them all if you value direct flights or lower airfare . Frankfurt is one of the busiest airports in Germany and offers the most international routes in the country.

Coming from a far origin like the Americas, Africa, or Asia, Frankfurt offers the best chance of getting a direct flight. The train from Frankfurt’s central train station to Cologne takes only a touch over an hour.

Frankfurt International Airport is served by many major international airlines. It is a Lufthansa hub, and it also serves many top European budget airlines.

If you are skeptical about flying on budget airlines, don’t be. I’m a huge fan of budget airlines! They are honestly so practical for so many situations.

For tips about flying on budget airlines and avoiding hidden fees, be sure to check out my top tips for flying on budget airlines.

Taking a Train to Cologne

Europe’s train systems are very highly regarded, and arguably no country’s train system is better than Germany’s. Germany has a really strong reputation for punctuality, and usually, their trains are accurate to the minute. Germany’s train system is very well connected domestically, and its cities are also very well connected to international train lines.

Cologne isn’t directly connected to most major European cities, but it is usually no more than one train change away. There are direct trains from Cologne to Amsterdam and Brussels, as well as a handful of other international cities and most major northwestern German cities.

To book rail travel, I highly recommend thetrainline.com . This website provides great information on train routes and gives you the ability to instantly book your trains as well.

How to Get Around Cologne

U-BAHN | S-BAHN | TRAMS | BUSES | TAXIS | BIKE | ELECTRIC SCOOTER | UBER

Cologne is a relatively small city, but it is pretty well endowed with public transportation . The subway and light rail, respectively the U-Bahn and the S-Bahn in German, connect the city very well for 1.90 Euros per trip.

There is also a very extensive bus network that charges the same price and is a great alternative when the S-Bahn and U-Bahn can’t get you where you want to go. Cologne has a tram system, but it tends to be slower and less well-connected than the subway and light rail while still charging the same price.

If you are trying to do the main tourist attractions in Cologne, renting a bike is a great option. The city is very bikeable and there are rental options all over the place.

Another popular method of transportation is shareable electric scooters, like Lime and Bird. This is how we chose to get around most of the time, and these scooters are honestly one of our favorite transportation methods when we travel. If you aren’t sure what I’m talking about, be sure to check out this post on shareable electric scooters.

If you aren’t a scooter or bike type of person and the public transportation system can’t get you where you want to go, Cologne is served by Uber and the prices are fair. This is always a great back up option and definitely can save you time in a pinch. If you are nervous about using Uber in a foreign country, make sure to read my post about using Uber safely internationally.

– R E A D –

How Many Days Do You Need in Cologne?

I’ve said a few times throughout this post that Cologne is a really cool German city to visit. But it doesn’t necessarily merit its own transatlantic vacation.

After spending some significant time there, I would say that you can explore all of the best things to do in Cologne in 3-4 days at the absolute most.

I think visiting for 2 nights is the perfect sweet spot. You have some time to explore on the day that you arrive, you have the full second day, and you have a bit of time on the last day to do anything on your list that you still have left.

Wondering how many days you need in Cologne is a very valid question, and the answer isn’t the same for everyone. However, unless you have a certain calling bringing you to Cologne – like family ties, historic interests, or studies – I think a weekend or a long weekend is plenty of time. 

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Cologne?

Cologne is in northwestern Germany, meaning it is by no means a paradise destination. Many people don’t realize that Europe as a whole is cooler and further north than the United States.

For example, Rome is around the same latitude as Philadelphia! London and Cologne are approximately on the same latitude line, which is about the same as Toronto, Canada. While you can’t expect the weather to be exactly the same across the ocean, you should definitely consider that winters in Cologne are no walk in the park. 

Cologne winters are pretty cold, and the shoulder seasons have the potential of not being too pretty either. While I am normally a big proponent of traveling during low seasons, Cologne is one destination where that gets a little bit more questionable.

I visited in March, and the weather was pretty dreary. I would recommend visiting right before or right after the summer , but just beware that the rest of the tourists will have the same idea! If you want a more relaxed visit with less people around, late spring – like April – might be a good bet.

Is Cologne Worth Visiting?

Cologne is a very unique city, and it is a place that I definitely do recommend checking out. I wouldn’t say that Cologne is the best destination in the country, but it did make my list of the top 5 cities to visit in Germany.

It is hard to compete with the iconic museums in Berlin and the beer halls of Munich , but I think Cologne has enough unique history and culture that set it apart and make it worth your time – especially if you have extra room in your trip that you are looking to fill.

From great museums and a very unique history to fantastic food and beautiful sites to see, the best things to do in Cologne can keep any tourist entertained!

Now, would I recommend going on a week-long trip to Cologne all the way from the United States? No, probably not.

But if you have already checked off some other big German destinations and are looking to get a feel for a new region of Germany, the answer to our question of “is Cologne worth visiting?” is a resounding yes! The city is very unique and is worth adding to any trip itinerary for at least a couple of days.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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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.

Cologne travel guide

Cologne: Where History Meets Modernity on the Banks of the Rhine

Cologne, the fourth-largest city in Germany situated along the banks of the Rhine River, stands as a testament to the nation's economic, cultural, and historical prowess. Serving as a crucial inland port, this ancient yet vibrant metropolis seamlessly blends antiquity with modernity, creating an atmosphere that is both timeless and contemporary.

Founded by the Romans in ancient times, Cologne witnessed unprecedented growth during the Middle Ages, establishing itself as a pivotal center for religion, arts, and education in Germany. The city's historical tapestry is woven with numerous landmarks, complemented by picturesque landscapes, with the iconic Cologne Cathedral standing as an undisputed gem.

Cologne, often referred to as the heart of the Rhineland, unfolds its charm through a diverse array of neighborhoods, each contributing uniquely to the city's character. The Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, transports visitors back in time. Meanwhile, districts like Ehrenfeld and the Belgian Quarter embody the city's modern spirit, pulsating with creativity and contemporary lifestyles.

At the heart of Cologne's allure is the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Dominating the city skyline, this cathedral is not just a religious landmark but a symbol of Cologne's resilience, having withstood the tests of time and history. Visitors can climb to the top of the cathedral's towers for panoramic views of the city, the Rhine River, and beyond.

Cologne's commitment to preserving its rich history is evident in its many museums, including the Roman-Germanic Museum and the Wallraf-Richartz Museum. These institutions house artifacts that narrate the city's journey through the ages, offering a captivating glimpse into its past.

The city's vibrant cultural scene is further enriched by its theaters, galleries, and music venues. From the annual Cologne Carnival, a spirited celebration of tradition and merriment, to the contemporary art exhibitions at the Museum Ludwig, Cologne caters to a diverse array of tastes.

Cologne's appeal extends beyond its architectural and cultural treasures. The city's parks, such as the Rheinpark and Stadtgarten, provide serene escapes for both locals and visitors. The Rhine River itself, winding gracefully through the city, offers opportunities for leisurely walks along its promenades or panoramic boat tours.

In conclusion, Cologne is a harmonious blend of antiquity and modernity, a city that proudly wears its historical legacy while embracing the dynamic spirit of the present. From the grandeur of its cathedral to the chic ambiance of its modern districts, Cologne beckons travelers to explore its multifaceted identity, where every corner reveals a new facet of this captivating metropolis.

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• 1.1 Orientation
• 1.2 History
• 1.3 Climate
• 1.4 Tourist office
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 4.1 By public transport
• 4.2 By bicycle
• 4.3 On foot
• 4.4 By e-hailing
• 5.1.1 Remains of city walls and fortifications
• 5.2 Veedel - City Quarters
• 5.3 Other attractions
• 5.4 Museums and galleries
• 5.5.1 Churches and other religious buildings
• 5.7 Itineraries
• 6.3 Spa and massage
• 7.1 Department stores
• 7.2 High-end fashion
• 7.3 Records
• 8.1 Traditional scene
• 8.2 Ethnic scene
• 8.3.1 In and around the central train station
• 8.3.2 Around Neumarkt
• 8.3.3 In Ehrenfeld
• 8.3.4 Südstadt
• 8.3.5 Around Zülpicher Platz
• 8.4.1 German and Colognian cuisine
• 8.4.2 International cuisine
• 8.5 Splurge
• 10.1 Camping
• 10.2 Budget
• 10.3 Mid-range
• 10.4 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe
• 12.1 Wi-Fi access
• 13.1 Religious services
• 14.1 International

Cologne (German: Köln , Ripuarian: Kölle ) is a city on the Rhine river in North Rhine-Westphalia . It is the fourth largest city in Germany with around 1.1 million residents (2020). It is one of the nation's media, tourism and business hotspots, and is considered one of the most liberal cities in Germany.

Cologne has a rich history, reaching back to the time of the ancient Roman Empire , when it was founded. It has remained a constantly inhabited important regional centre since. Compared to other German and European cities, the ancient and medieval Cologne was relatively large, covering most of the modern-day city centre. A wealth of architectural heritage can therefore be found across the city ranging from pre-Christian times to strikingly modern buildings, with a high concentration of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, culminating in the magnificent cathedral ( Dom ).

Cologne is, however, not only a tourist destination, but on an equal note a major economic centre, a globally important trade fair location, a culture and media hotspot and a major transportation hub. This equal mix of roles and functions is permeable throughout the city and provides it with a constant inflow of various visitors, as well as a very diverse population mix. This all culminates during the traditional Karneval, and makes Cologne one of the most-visited destinations in Germany.

Understand [ edit ]

Orientation [ edit ].

Cologne lies on both sides of the river Rhine , which flows through it in a northerly direction. The left hand, or western side, is Cologne proper with the Old Town ( Altstadt ), the famous cathedral and most landmarks and museums. The right side, or eastern side, used to be a separate town called Deutz - now Deutz is a neighbourhood of Cologne.

Cologne is divided into 9 districts ( Stadtbezirke ), numbered from 1 to 9. Stadtbezirk 1 , called Innenstadt ("inner city"), is probably the one most tourists will spend all of their time in, as it contains most of the city's points of interest. It is also the only district that lies on both sides of the Rhine, as it includes Deutz. Districts 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are on the western bank of the Rhine, and districts 7, 8 and 9 on the eastern bank, surrounding the Innenstadt.

Every Stadtbezirk is further divided into Stadtteile (literally "city parts", or "neighbourhoods"). The Innenstadt includes Altstadt-Nord and Alstadt-Süd , two parts of the historic Old Town of Cologne facing the Rhine, divided by the L111 thoroughfare running from east to west (with the street names Cäcilienstraße – Neumarkt – Hahnenstraße), starting at the Deutzer Brücke (bridge over the Rhine). The Altstadt is surrounded by a ring of wide avenues running over the former city walls of Cologne. They all have street names ending with the word Ring .

The part of Innenstadt lying on the outer side of the ring is the Neustadt , or "new town". Neustadt is further divided into Neustadt-Nord and Neustadt-Sued , also separated by L111 ( Aachener Straße ). Both parts of the Neustadt form a crescent embracing the Altstadt and reaching the Rhine on either side thereof. Finally, facing the Altstadt and Neustadt on the other (eastern) side of the Rhine is the Stadtteil of Deutz , which completes the Innenstadt .

History [ edit ]

Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany, having been founded and established in the 1st century AD, as the Roman Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium . "Cologne" is the French version of the city's name, which has become standard in English as well. It has a traditional, strong rivalry with the neighbouring city of Düsseldorf , the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia, although this is mostly manifested by a number of jocular references made to one another in both cities and constant bickering as to whose local beer is best (in Cologne, it is obviously Kölsch ). It was Germany's largest city at several points in history and for most of the Middle Ages it was the only place that would even register as a major city population-wise by modern standards. Today it is the fourth biggest city in Germany (after Berlin, Hamburg and Munich) and the biggest that is neither city state nor state capital.

Climate [ edit ]

The climate of North Western Germany is changeable, with seasonal changes and day-to-day weather often comparable to that of England or Northern France . Travellers to Cologne can expect the hottest time of the year to be late July/early August, the coldest is January (temperature hovering around the freezing mark) and the month with the most rainfall is June.

Tourist office [ edit ]

50.94084 6.95649 1 KölnTourismus , Kardinal-Hoeffner-Platz 1 ( directly opposite the front entrance of the cathedral, take the U-Bahn to Dom/Hbf ), ☏ +49 221 346430 . M-Sa 09:00-19:00, Sundays closed . The Cologne Tourist Office offers a wealth of information for the traveller who wishes to fill their itinerary with activities around the city. Ask about guide books that are available, most of which provide information for free. ( updated Jun 2023 )

Talk [ edit ]

The distinctive flavour to the city of Cologne is often linked to the city's inhabitants, or Kölsche , who take an enormous amount of pride in their city. Cologne is a traditionally Ripuarian-speaking city, though this has mostly been replaced by standard German, which is now the main language of the city. English-speaking guides and information are available for many of the landmarks of the city. For tourists who speak German and wish to practice it, the citizens usually have a lot of patience with those trying to come to grips with the language. Cologne's citizens are very friendly and jovial people, welcoming tourists of all types and with all interests.

German is of course the language of this city but it is very easy to find information in French and English, also sometimes in Spanish and Japanese . Due to a large number of immigrants, Persian , Turkish , Polish and Russian are also widely spoken. Announcements in the main train station ( Hauptbahnhof ) are in German, French and English. Like many German cities and areas, Cologne also has a local dialect, called Kölsch , however all speakers will also be familiar with German.

Away from the landmarks, workers of the Deutsche Bahn (German railways) often speak English reasonably well, and ticket machines have a language selection feature. In general, older people in Cologne tend to have little or no knowledge of English, while younger Germans and those working in the business world tend to be more proficient. Language is rarely a strong barrier, so this should not be much of a worry for the average tourist. Just approach a friendly native with a smile on your face.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

• The airport is approximately 15 minutes to the centre of Cologne by commuter train S19 (towards Düren), RB 27 (Mönchengladbach) or RE 6 (RRX; Minden). The fare (ticket zone 1b) is €3 one-way (May 2022).
• To the district Porz get bus line 161 which departs every 30 – 60 min from 04:59 to 23:30. Travel time is 15 min and costs €3 (May 2022).
• Düsseldorf Airport ( DUS  IATA ), The Düsseldorf airport offers many intercontinental connections. A train ride from the airport train station to Cologne central station takes about 40 minutes. IC and ICE trains on this route cost €16-€23, but offer no real time savings over the humble Regional Express (RE) trains, which require only a regional transit ticket (Price zone / Preisstufe 5; €11.90 as of May 2022). The Deutsche Bahn journey planner will show you your options.
• Frankfurt Airport ( FRA  IATA ), is the largest airport in Germany, served by all major international airlines. ICE (InterCityExpress) high speed trains connect Frankfurt Airport and Cologne central station in less than one hour. Standard one-way fare is €67 by ICE. However there are many reduced fares available if you order in advance with prices starting as low as €19. If you pay full price you do not have to take a specific train, but discounted tickets are restricted to the train on your reservation. Trains via Koblenz, which use the slower, yet extremely scenic route along the Rhine Valley , are also 30% cheaper. The ICE train takes about one hour, the slower more scenic route takes about two hours. There are also intercity buses, for example Flixbus, which go from the Frankfurt airport to Cologne airport.

By train [ edit ]

Cologne is served by two major train stations:

Cologne is linked with Amsterdam , Brussels , and Paris by Thalys and ICE high speed trains . Flixtrain serves the city.

Nightjet , the Austrian Railways' sleeper train , runs twice a week from Brussels via Aachen and Cologne to Vienna , Munich and Innsbruck . It calls at Bonn, Koblenz, Frankfurt airport, Würzburg and Nuremberg where it divides: One portion runs via Linz to Vienna, the other via Munich to Innsbruck.

The Frankfurt airport ( FRA  IATA ) has direct service to Cologne and is within one hour by ICE trains.

By bus [ edit ]

• 50.881419 7.117225 4 Intercity bus station Cologne Airport .  
• 51.032346 6.990409 5 Intercity bus station Leverkusen Mitte .  

Long-distance buses cannot stop in the centre of Cologne. The main long-distance bus stations serving Cologne are at the train station Leverkusen Mitte (20 minutes by S-Bahn from/to Cologne Hauptbahnhof, check if you need to pay a fare on top of your long-distance bus ticket) and at Köln Bonn Airport. You can compare travel time and costs for various modes of transport on various websites.

By car [ edit ]

Cologne requires all cars to have a "Low Emissions" sticker in order to drive around in the city centre Low Emission Zone ("Umweltzone"). Information on obtaining a sticker (which must be done at least several weeks in advance) is available here . There are very few exceptions and even electric cars or foreign cars have to get the sticker.

Autobahns A1, A4, A3, A57, and A555 lead to Cologne. During rush hour the streets are heavily congested, also due to massive construction of a new subway tunnel Nord-Süd Stadtbahn, crossing half the city centre.

For cheap parking, with quick connections to central Cologne, use park and ride (" park und ride "). At some stations, parking is free when you present a validated transit ticket on exit [dead link] .

Get around [ edit ]

By public transport [ edit ]

Cologne has an excellent public transport network consisting of trams, local trains and buses. Bicycles are also available for hire on the northern side of the Hauptbahnhof . Local transport systems rarely provide announcements in English, but network maps are commonly available to assist with your journey. Those wishing to explore areas away from the central city should plan their journey and potential connections before leaving. The KVB (Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe) website is a good source of public transport information.

Tickets are valid for subway, tram and regional train within the VRS-network. Trips within the city limits require zone 1b tickets (2019: single €3, 4-trip-ticket €12, day ticket €8.80, day ticket for up to 5 people €13.40), week ticket €26.30. For short trips of up to 4 stops on subway, tram or bus there is also the slightly cheaper "Kurzstrecke" (short trip ticket, 2019: €2.00). They offer mobile app ( iOS , Android ), which allows buying tickets with 10% discount. A map of the network can be found at most stops, inside all vehicles (check ceilings, back entrances) and online .

Cologne's subway and tram-system , or U-Bahn, is a mixture of systems: a subway line can go on street-level and end up as a tram or vice versa. There are vending machines or ticket-offices at larger stations The trains and buses also have vending-machines. See the public bus, tram and subway-company KVB for printable maps of the bus/tram/subway system and here for their official street map ( also found here ) of Cologne.

Regional trains are known as "S-Bahn", "Regional-Bahn" and "Regional Express". Most of them don't have ticket vending-machines so remember to buy a ticket at the station.

Student travel: Student travel (age 20 or less) can be very cheap to and from Cologne, as well as around the Land of North Rhine-Westphalia. The German rail company (DB: Deutsche Bahn) offer a 'SchöneFerienTicket NRW' during student holiday times and allows free travel throughout North Rhine-Westphalia on local buses, trams, U-Bahn, S-Bahn and regional trains. Prices range from around €54 for summer holidays to €25.50 for Easter holidays, but prices and times change from year to year.

These tickets are available to anyone with valid student identification (student union card, enrolment card, etc.) and personal identification (passport, driving licence, etc.) The ticket is only valid for the student holiday dates of North Rhine-Westphalia and the ticket is not valid for high speed express trains. Visit/contact Deutsche Bahn for more information before travelling to Germany.

By bicycle [ edit ]

Cologne has, like e.g. Berlin , Munich and Frankfurt , app-based bike rental systems such as Call A Bike and KVB-Rad [dead link] (run by Nextbike). After you register for an account on-line, you will be charged time-based fees. The Radstation at the central train station offers rentals from 3 hours on, with discounts for longer rentals (a cash deposit of €50 is required). Going by bike is maybe the best way to go around in the city.

On foot [ edit ]

But, on the whole, the centre of Cologne is not that big for a city of one million. It is entirely feasible to walk from one end of the centre, say, the Rudolfplatz, to the other end, say, the Cathedral, in half an hour.

By e-hailing [ edit ]

Uber, Bolt and Free Now cover the city.

See [ edit ]

Historical attractions [ edit ]

Remains of city walls and fortifications [ edit ]

• 50.93102 6.95137 18 ruins of Roman city walls and two towers .  
• 50.93439 6.96288 25 Ruins of a small gate .  

Veedel - City Quarters [ edit ]

Cologne is well known for its "Veedel" or traditional neighbourhoods.

• Agnesviertel – Here, most notably in the bohemian Agnesviertel , you can find independent designers, bookshops, bars, and art galleries. There are also historical monuments, such as the North City Gate or Eigelsteintorburg in the Agnesviertel, very near to Fort X , built to protect the city from French attacks, and Agneskirche , a late neo-gothic church on the boulevardesque Neusserstraße . Neusserstraße also has a yoga school, an Aikido school, a Japanese restaurant, a well-stocked bookshop, and a range of pubs. Nearby you will find the Alte Feuerwache , where there are regular exhibitions on political topics and a surreal flea market every four weeks in summer. Opposite Alte Feuerwache is the Artclub , with regular exhibitions of contemporary art, and on Ebertplatz there is a cinema (Metropolis) which shows films in the original (mostly English, but sometimes also French or Spanish). On nearby Lübecker Straße, you will find the uncompromisingly Arty Filmpalette cinema. To round off a trip to the Agnesviertel, you might like a kölsch in the Lapidarium (right beside the North City Gate) or a coffee in Cafe Schmitz , Cologne's grooviest poser hangout (they also do a great breakfast.) All of these great places are within a short walk of Ebertplatz U-Bahn.
• Eigelstein – around the Eigelsteintorburg, U-Bahn "Ebertplatz"
• Martinsviertel / Altstadt – Old town between Rhine, Heumarkt, Alter Markt and Dom, (Cologne Cathedral) , U-Bahn "Rathaus" or "Heumarkt"
• Severinsviertel and Südstadt – around the Severinstorburg, U-Bahn "Clodwigplatz"
• Kwartier Latäng – This student neighbourhood takes it name from the Parisian Quartier Latin. It is centred on the Zülpicher Straße and provides ample nightlife opportunities, ranging from a night shop with dancefloor and toilets ( Späti ), to grimy indie bars. Middle Eastern food is also easy to be found here, including the famous and very popular Habibi . The neighbourhood can be accessed by going to the station "Zülpicher Platz" .
• Belgisches Viertel – Stadtbahn "Moltkestraße"
• Ehrenfeld – U-Bahn "Körnerstraße"

Other attractions [ edit ]

• Parks : Cologne has two park areas ( Grüngürtel ) encircling the city (immediately outside the medieval city limits) and nearly the entire town, respectively, which were set aside as public recreation areas after World War I. The inner Grüngürtel is probably more easy to reach for tourists who only stay a few days. Most notably are Volksgarten , Rheinpark , Hiroshima-Nagasaki- (colloquially known as Aachener-Weiher- ) and Stadtgarten parks where thousands of people come together to enjoy the sun, play and barbecue when the weather is fine. All these parks have an associated beer garden. Dispose any packaging, charcoal, etc., into the waste bins (which are few and far between), as the city has begun to employ anti-littering patrols that will levy a stiff fine on anyone seen littering. Metro: Eifelplatz for Volksgarten, Universitätsstraße for Hiroshima-Nagasaki-Park, Hans-Böckler-Platz/Bahnhof West for Stadtgarten, Bahnhof Deutz for Rheinpark .

• 50.95532 6.971882 31 Skulpturenpark , Riehler Straße ( near Seilbahn, Tram Zoo/Flora ). Free .  

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

Cologne has one of the world's best collections of museums and galleries for a city of its size. As well as world class museums of art and archaeology, Cologne boasts two museums of ecclesiastical art, both housed in architecturally stunning buildings. There is also an ethnographic museum, a chocolate museum, the German Sport Museum and an abundance of Roman remains.

One can purchase a MuseumsCard from one of the municipal museums (such as the first five listed below). The single card costs €18, the family card, which costs €30, entitles 2 adults and 2 children (under 18) free admission to each of the municipal museums during two consecutive opening days. On its first day of validity, it can also be used as a ticket on all buses and trams on the Cologne transportation system VRS. The card is valid in the following museums: Museum Ludwig, Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln, Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud, Museum für Ostasiatische Kunst, Museum Schnütgen, Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum - Kulturen der Welt, Kölnisches Stadtmuseum, NS-Dokumentationszentrum.

Südstadt [ edit ]

• 50.93408 6.96045 43 Overstolzenhaus . One of the oldest houses in Cologne, built between 1220 and 1225, with an impressive romaneque façade. Built as a residence for a local patrician, today it houses the Academy of Media Arts.  
• 50.93569 6.94935 44 Kunsthaus Lempertz . The famous German art merchants and auctioneers, founded in 1845 (although the building is from 1952, reconstructed after the Second World War).  
• 50.92523 6.9645 45 Postamt ( Bürgerhaus Stollwerck ), Dreikönigenstraße 23 . The former post office built from red brick in 1906 is now used as a theatre.  
• 50.93162 6.95156 46 Wasserturm . The former water tower built in 1868-1872 is now used as a luxury boutique hotel. The 11th floor (at 35 metres) houses a terrace and glass covered dining/meeting room, which can be rented out for private functions.  
• 50.93287 6.94516 47 Wolkenburg . The baroque estate was built in 1734 for a benedictine convent, but is used today by the 190-man choir Kölner Männer-Gesang-Verein Cäcilia Wolkenburg . It is also an event centre.  
• 50.93067 6.96733 48 Severinsbrücke . Completed in 1959, the cable-stayed bridge provided a relief for the Deutzer Brücke. Although not outstanding visually as such, it provides a nice view of both banks of the Rhine if you care to walk it.  

Churches and other religious buildings [ edit ]

• 50.92463 6.95563 49 Kartäuserkirche ( Charterhouse church ). The church belonged to the local charterhouse (a monastery of the Carthusian order) until 1794, when the monastery was closed and the church was used variously as a warehouse or a military hospital until the 1920s, when it was restored to its religious function by a local protestant community, whom it serves as a church until today. After reconstruction, it features an impressive pipe organ array with glockenspiel .  
• 50.93428 6.95889 50 Dreikönigenpförtchen . One of the best-hidden gems of Cologne, the small yet ornate gothic gate once led to an "immunity" belonging to the convent based at the St. Maria im Kapitol.  
• 50.92867 6.95926 51 St. Gregorius im Elend . Neobaroque church from the early 19th century.  
• 50.92893 6.95792 52 St. Johann Baptist . This Catholic church is one of the oldest in Cologne, predating even the famous romanesque churches, as it was founded in 948. It has seen many additions and reconstructions throughout the centuries, and was almost totally destroyed during the Second World War. Its current form is an eclectic reconstruction finished in the early 1960s.  
• 50.92711 6.95496 53 Former franciscan convent with St. Marien church . Nestled inconspicuously between contemporary residential buildings is this impressive complex with gothic-inspired decorations  
• 50.93437 6.95177 54 St. Peter church , Leonhard-Tietz-Straße 6 . The lesser-known next-door neighbour of St. Cäcilien  
• 50.92672 6.95291 55 St. Maria vom Frieden church and convent ( corner of Schnurgasse and Vor den Siebenburgen ). Baroque convent complex from the 17th century.  
• 50.93342 6.96076 56 Trinitatiskirche , Filzengraben 6 . This 19th-century evangelical church provides both regular religious services and serves as a venue for various cultural, especially musical, events.  

Deutz [ edit ]

Dominated by two very utilitarian land uses, the fairgrounds in the north and the actually functional freight harbour of Cologne in the south, Deutz is not without long history and much heritage and charm in its built environment as well. While the left Rhine bank is clearly the dominant one in Cologne, Deutz is where you can get the best views of it across the Rhine, and this is a reason alone to cross the river and get there, but by far not the only one.

• 50.94039 6.97188 57 Köln-Triangle ( LVR-Turm ), Ottoplatz 1 , ☏ +49 2234 9921-555 , [email protected] . May–Sep: M–F 11:00–22:00, Sa Su public holidays 10:00–22:00; Oct–Apr M–F 12:00–18:00, Sa Su public holidays 10:00–18:00 . The Köln-Triangle is a high rise building in Deutz, immediately by the waterfront. It is a part of a building complex fronted by the Rhine-facing Hyatt hotel and is hard to miss due to its prominence and quite easily accessible from both Deutz and the left bank of the Rhine (simply cross the Hochenzollern bridge from the Altstadt). On its 29th floor, it has a viewing terrace called Panorama , which is publicly accessible via a lift for a relatively reasonable fee. The terrace has glass all around it for both safety purposes and for exhibiting the names of various landmarks you can see from it. If you want to take really good photos, you may want to have a piece of cloth with you to clean the glass of fingerprints and such. The viewing terrace is closed during bad weather (like storm or hail). Admission is €3 for a single person, every additional member of the same party pays €2 only .  

• 50.94713 6.97256 58 Tanzbrunnen .  
• 50.94957 6.97576 59 Rheinpark .  
• 50.93796 6.96963 60 Alt St. Heribert .  
• 50.93633 6.97293 61 Neu St. Heribert .  
• 50.92811 6.98185 62 Jewish Cemetery .  
• 50.93747 6.9705 63 maxCologne .  
• 50.93847 6.98303 64 Lanxess Arena .  
• 50.94256 6.97784 65 Koelnmesse ( southern entrance marked on the map - exit from the Koeln Deutz/Messe railway station in the direction of the Messe and follow the signs ).  
• 50.94316 6.97132 66 Rheinhallen .  
• 50.94442 6.97003 67 Messeturm Köln .  
• 50.94049 6.97424 68 Bahnhof Köln-Deutz . The historic building of the station now known as Köln Messe/Deutz is an interesting piece of architectural heritage many visitors to Cologne miss as they exit the station on the fairgrounds side.  
• 50.93547 6.97369 69 St. Johannes church .  
• 50.93454 6.97735 70 Düxer Bock .  
• 50.93823 6.96872 71 Cuirassier Monument .  
• 50.92768 6.97299 72 Deutzer Drehbrücke .  
• 50.93702 6.99171 73 ESSO Station An der Kölnarena . You may wonder what's so special about a gas station, but you will understand once you see its 1950s architecture with the unique structured roof and learn that it is the oldest gas station in Cologne in continuous operation.  
• 50.93677 6.97445 74 Deutzer Freiheit . The main shopping street of Deutz, with not only retail opportunities but also many historic buildings along the way.  

Itineraries [ edit ]

• Cologne/Rheinauhafen

Do [ edit ]

Cologne's strong side is its cultural life. For latest information on what is happening around in town, get the StadtRevue [dead link] for €2, Kölner for €2 or Live for free.

• Kölner Philharmonie Central concert hall. Opened in 1986. Main season September to June. Special summer shows.
• Oper Köln Operas are performed in the Staatenhaus while the opera building is being renovated. Season starts in Mid-September.
• Stadtgarten , Venloer Straße 42 ( U-bahn to Friesenplatz, walk 5 minutes ). Concert centre for jazz and contemporary music, with a cafe and restaurant inside and a large beer garden outside which dates back to at least the 1950s. (Also the site of a great Christmas market.) ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Kölner Seilbahn , Riehler Straße 180 , ☏ +49 221 547-4183 . Apr-Oct 10:00-18:00 . Take a ride with the Aerial tramway across Rhine river. Adult one way €4.50, return €6.50; child (aged 4–12) one way €2.50, return €3.70 .  
• Kölner Zoo ( Cologne Zoo ), Riehler Straße 173 , [email protected] . Summer: 09:00-18:00, winter: 09:00-17:00, aquarium: 09:00-18:00 . Adult €17.50, teenager or student €12, child (aged 4–12) €8.50 (2013) .  
• Metropolis Cinema , Ebertplatz 19 , ☏ +49 221 722436 . 15.00-24.00 . If you want to go to the movies while visiting Cologne and you don't know German, this small cinema is for you. It shows movies in their native language, but mostly English. (However, most other cinemas will also show English versions several times a week, so check the listings.) ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Fishing in the Rhine (fishing without a fishing licence is not possible)
• Football: 50.9335 6.8752 2 1. FC Köln , RheinEnergieStadion, Aachener Strasse ( tram or bus to Müngersdorf 4 km west of centre ), ☏ +49 221 716 16150 . Die Geißböcke ("The Billy Goats") play soccer in Bundesliga, Germany's top tier. The stadium has a capacity of 46,000 and in 2024 will host matches in the UEFA Finals. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Events [ edit ]

• 50.93603 6.94764 1 Christmas Market ( Weinachtsmarket ): ,  Kölner Dom . One of the most famous Christmas markets, and a visit highlight for everyone who loves over-the-top Christmas ambience. Late November to December 23.  (date needs fixing)

• Cologne Gay Pride ( Christopher Street Day ): . – Cologne Pride is a large gay pride festival held in Cologne annually on the Heumarkt square. The event showcases music, a candle light vigil remembering those with HIV/AIDS, and on the final day of the festival a large parade is held. Up to a million people have attended the events.  (date needs fixing)
• Kölner Lichter ( Cologne Lights ): . A fireworks display on the Rhine lights up the sky between the Hohenzollern and Zoo bridges.  (date needs fixing)

Tours [ edit ]

• KD Rhine River Cruise , Frankenwerft 35 , ☏ +49 221 208 83 18 . Departure times: Daily: 10:30, 12:00, 14:00, 18:00; Köln-Düsseldorf offers cruises of the Rhine river around the Cologne area with an explanation of landmarks. €6.80 .  
• Stattreisen e.V. , ☏ +49 221 7325113 . This non-profit organization offers excellent tours of Cologne, led by volunteers. The prices are moderate and there is a huge list of tours, including (besides the more regular tours) Koelsch tours (for testing the breweries) or language lessons in the local dialect (again, in a brewery). Ask for English tours, some guides are willing to conduct a normally German tour in English.  
• Rickshaws: environmentally friendly city tours . Rickshaws are exotic and environmentally friendly tricycles, that bring their passengers slowly and safely to their destination. By Rickshaw you will discover Cologne’s points of interest in a comfortable way.  

Spa and massage [ edit ]

Beauty and spa treatments are popular in Cologne.

In typical German style, all sauna areas (referred to as Saunalandschaften , i.e. Sauna landscapes) are mixed (apart from the odd Damentag ) and that bathing costumes are banned from them for hygienic reasons. Yup. Starkers, everybody.

Do take a bathrobe (to keep you from the cold outside the saunas) and a large towel (to put under you in the saunas, no sweating on the wood, please) with you, though.

Do not draw hasty conclusions either: mixed nudity does not make those places dens of sin, quite the contrary. Nudity is considered as the only appropriate outfit in saunas, and it all happens in a disciplined, wholesome, safe and respectful atmosphere. Possibly one of the highest forms of German civilisation one can experience.

Gawkers and bathing costume-wearers will be expelled by the staff without qualms, so don't even think you can get away with playing the tourist who didn't know, it won't make a difference.

That very matter-of factly, unerotic approach to mixed nudity may well turn out to be a revelation to many visitors open-minded enough to give it a try and go with the flow.

• Claudius Therme . Large spa with pool and lots of different saunas (indoors and outdoors) next to the Rhine, north of Deutz.  
• Mauritius Therme . Decent Saunalanschaft in a hotel south of Neumarkt.  
• Mediterana . 11 saunas and a huge pool, in Bergisch Gladbach, East of Cologne.  
• monte mare Bedburg , ☏ +49 2272 906800 . Large spa in the west of Cologne. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• monte mare Reichshof-Eckenhagen , ☏ +49 2265 997400 . Spa in the east of Cologne. ( updated Dec 2021 )
• Neptunbad . In the popular area of Ehrenfeld in an old renovated bath, to which an attractive "sauna landscape" in Japanese style on two levels has been added. Also a comprehensive fitness centre.  
• Saunas in public swimming pools . Some of the public swimming pools managed by the Cologne city council, notably Agrippabad, do have small Saunalandschaften too, all featuring a Damentag (ladies only day).  
• Ananda Tantra Massage and Coaching , Frankfurter Str. 40 , ☏ +49 221 6086585 . Daily 09:00-21:00 . Tantra massage, coaching and workshops, an open minded and liberal attitude essential because the massages include sexually sensitive body parts, however, no sexual services are given by the team of 30 female and male employees. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• Sukon - Thai Art Of Massage . Traditional Thai massage institute, in the city centre. Thai native massage therapists practise in the 160-m² Thai-styled studio: original royal massage, aroma oil massage and foot massage. This place does not offer any erotic massages.  

Buy [ edit ]

The main shopping street of Cologne is the Schildergasse , extending from the Neumarkt . The Schildergasse, Neumarkt, and pedestrianized side streets extending from them (in particular the Hohe Straße leading towards the Dom) host department stores, boutiques and other high-profile (and, often, high-price) retail establishments. For young fashion, also try Ehrenstraße .

Department stores [ edit ]

• 50.93578 6.95557 1 Galeria Kaufhof . Germany's largest department store chain and direct descendant of the mighty Leonhard Tietz AG has its flagship store in Cologne, where it is headquartered (although the headquarter offices have now moved to a different, modern building in Altstadt-Sued). The original 19th-century Tietz department store on the Schildergasse has been expanded with a "modern" part in the 1950s, including a multi-storey parking, facing the Caecilienstraße and now fills the entire huge block. You can find everything there, from apparel to groceries. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• 50.93838 6.94886 2 Karstadt . Kaufhof's main competitor situated themselves in a modern shopping centre north of Neumarkt, over the Zeppelinstraße.  

High-end fashion [ edit ]

Although it is Duesseldorf that brands itself as the German capital of fashion, Cologne's Altstadt also features a wide range of high-end fashion stores with a selection of top German and global brands.

• 50.93901 6.9543 3 Franz Sauer , Minoritenstraße 13 .  
• 50.93677 6.94364 4 Apropos , Mittelstraße 3 . Features a Gucci brand store.  
• 50.93705 6.94295 5 La Belle Modehaus , Mittelstraße 20 .  
• 50.93704 6.94245 6 Modehaus Elscheidt , Benesisstraße 36 .  
• 50.93733 6.94125 7 Boutique 69 , Pfeilstraße 31-35 .  

Records [ edit ]

There is an abundance of record stores in Cologne, but most are hidden in non-tourist quarters.

• For a mainstream record store, go to Saturn , which opened in 1961 and certainly has the largest CD (and DVD) collection in the region. To pre-listen a record, hold it under one of the scanners spread throughout the shop. Always worth a visit. Subway and Regional Train from central station: Hansaring. The (office) building is from 1925 and was briefly the highest house in Europe (65 metres). A smaller Saturn shop is on the top floor of Galeria Kaufhof (listed above).
• Independent record stores are spread around Saturn: Cross the street for 2nd hand and punk, follow the "Ring" (boulevard) north, and you will find Jazz, Electro and HipHop at Schallschock record store. Famous alternative music-store Normal is south of Saturn, as well as Underdog Record Store (specialized in Alternative Rock, Emo, Garage and related matters) Subway and Regional Train from central station: Hansaring
• For electronic music, get off at Friesenplatz, and go to groove attack in Maastrichter street. Also famous is Kompakt record store. Both are connected to a label sharing the name, and putting out fine German electronic music. Subway: Friesenplatz
• A widely renowned collection of experimental music and niche music is to be found at A-Musik in Kleiner Griechenmarkt, close to Neumarkt.

Books [ edit ]

• 50.936519 6.94853 8 Mayersche Buchhandlung , Neumarkt 2, 50667, Köln ( Tram stop "Neumarkt" ), ☏ +49 221 203070 , [email protected] . M-Sa 09:30-20:00; closed Su . The largest bookstore in Cologne; they stock a huge selection of books including sections in English and other languages. Also a wide selection of postcards. ( updated Nov 2019 )
• On "Ehrenstraße", you will find cheap and arty books, take a look at "Buchhandlung König" at the eastern end, buy art books at well known "Taschen" at the corner of Ehrenstraße and the Ring. Taschen was founded in Cologne in 1980 and is headquartered here.
• Travel books are bought best at "Gleumes", between Zülpicher Platz and Rudolfplatz. They have only maps and travel books, but these from around the world.
• Books in English - "English Books and Tea", Auf dem Rothenberg 9a, in the old town, stocks a wide range of new and secondhand books in English. It also offers a choice of teas and conversation and invaluable tourist orientation - all in English.
• Honorable mention: "Cafe Goldmund" in Ehrenfeld. A very cozy corner-café with all walls lined with bookshelves. You can buy every (second hand) book after you finished flipping through it while you enjoyed your drinks for a small tip. Also hosts small music and poetry events. Glasstraße 2, right next to the S-Bahn station "Ehrenfeld".

Eat [ edit ]

Cologne has a wide variety of restaurants, German and otherwise, as a glance in the colored pages of the local telephone book will illustrate.

Traditional scene [ edit ]

One can eat pretty well in most traditional-style Kölsch restaurants, and in fact as a visitor, you should try some of the local food, which is quite rustic, but tasty, hearty fare.

The brewery taps (Früh, Sion, Pfaffen, Malzmühle, etc., in the old town south of the Dom) are worth taking note of to that respect, although they tend to be expensive for what you get.

Places out of the way such as Schreckenskammer and Max Stark (north of the train station, the former being within crawling distance of the Station Backpackers Hostel), Päffgen (Friesenstraße) and both of the Cologne independent brewpubs ( Hellers Brauhaus on Roonstraße and Braustelle in Ehrenfeld) offer cheaper, better food than the old town tourist traps. Besides, most of these places have tons of atmosphere, which doesn't hurt!

You may also experience the deadly dry wit of the Köbes (traditional name of the blue-clad waiters) in most of those places. If it happens to you, don't get upset, just enter the game, send the Köbes packing with a dig and a smile and you'll be all right.

You'll mostly find typical Rheinland dishes in those traditional Kneipen. Classics include:

• Halve Hahn: nice big slab of Dutch gouda with a rye roll ( Röggelchen )
• Himmel un Äd mit Flönz: fried black pudding with mashed potatoes ("earth"), apple sauce ("heaven") and fried onions.
• Soorbrode/Sauerbraten: joint marinated in vinegar with raisins, usually served with red cabbage and a kloss (potato dumpling). The joint may be beef or horsemeat, so you may want to ask first.
• Dicke Bunne met Speck: boiled white beans with hefty boiled bacon slices on top.
• Schweinshaxe (grilled); Hämchen (cooked): pig's leg, usually a bit of a monster (ranges from 600 to 1400 g, including the bone)
• Rievkooche/Reibekuchen: flat fried potato cakes usually on offer once a week, and served with a variety of sweet or savoury toppings, which may include apple sauce, Rübenkraut (the beet-sourced equivalent to black treacle) or smoked salmon with horseradish cream.

Ethnic scene [ edit ]

If you are looking for a snack, you can either head for one of the Middle-Eastern or Asian places, or you can make use of the traditional fast food places like McDonald's and Burger King. Italian restaurants in Cologne seem to attempt to aim for a higher quality than in the UK, though it is debatable whether they achieve it, and whether their prices (often 150-200% of UK prices) are justified. There are several Indian restaurants across the city, which serve a fair fare, though the visiting Brit may be slightly disappointed to find that German 'curry culture' is rather akin to that of the UK in the 1960s: menus are neither large and varied, nor regionalised and specialist, and although ingredients are fresh, the food without exception appears to be tamed-down for the conservative German palate and the cooks are rather hesitant to spice it up even if you ask for it. "Clay Oven" (Luxemburger Straße near Südbahnhof) and "Bombay" (near Eifelstraße tram station) do make a vindaloo that will satisfy the most hardy customer, though. Japanese and Thai restaurants are common; both are quite expensive.

There is an abundance of Döner Kebab and similar takeaways around the town. Generally a lot of Turkish snack bar-style places can be found just north of the main station at Eigelstein, around Zülpicher Platz and in the Belgisches Viertel , with some excellent Lebanese and Persian takeaways further down Zülpicher Straße towards Südbahnhof. Probably best now (though expensive) is Oruc Döner on Kyffhäuserstraße (near Barbarossaplatz); while the kebab is quite good though not outstanding, their freshly baked pide bread is famous all over town. There are lots of Turkish restaurants and takeaways within Kalk , Mülheim and (mainly restaurants) in the Belgisches Viertel .

Budget [ edit ]

In and around the central train station [ edit ].

The ground floor of the central train station has a good number of cheap eateries, which include KFC to kiosks selling sausages.

• 50.948032 6.956821 1 Weinhaus Vogel , Eigelstein 74 . Real Cologne restaurant. Nice service, good food and tasty beer. A very special ambience. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.948074 6.957109 2 De Fressbud , Eigelstein 78 . Number one currywurst in town. Warm people. The best spit roast and other original German fast food. ( updated May 2022 )

Around Neumarkt [ edit ]

• 50.934875 6.947908 3 Thiebolds-Eck , Lungengasse 31 . A typical Cologne corner pub, as you would imagine: Rustic interior, worn bar and tables, plenty of decorations, you can meet local football fans here on match days, freshly tapped and ice-cold Reissdorf Kölsch, small but fine Cologne cuisine. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.938527 6.945584 4 Curry B. , Breite Str. 169 . Very tasty currywurst with fries. Very pleasant place for a quick bite. ( updated May 2022 )

In Ehrenfeld [ edit ]

• 50.947251 6.923034 5 Maison Baguette , Venloer Str. 240 . Fantastic sandwiches, very well served and with incredible bread. Very friendly service. Diverse menu. The owner is nice and you immediately feel at home. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.947635 6.921048 6 Lizbät , Geisselstraße 6 . Delicious crepes, a nice ambience and great service. There are all kinds of crepes: vegetarian, vegan, with meat, and sweet. The beer garden is nice and the service is good. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.954172 6.910658 7 Vegan Revolution , Venloer Str. 456 . Best makali halloumi sandwich around. Amazing Baba ganoush and hummus. Every item is flavourful and freshly made. It's a small place and has a good quality. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.954974 6.918097 8 Reissdorf im Moselstübchen , Landmannstraße 3 . Nice and cozy pub. Small menu with something for everyone. Even vegetarian bratwurst. Simple Colognian pub with good bourgeois cuisine and a always delicious tap Kölsch beer. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.956769 6.919216 9 Gaumenschmaus , Lenaupl. 9 . Clean, delicious home-style cuisine. Every day a different menu for lunch. Everything freshly prepared. Good Schnitzel. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.919146 6.960281 10 Da Nino , Bonner Str. 27 . A real insider tip for super delicious and authentic pizza. Authentic Italian dishes. Cool place, lovely staff. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.9177 6.9625 11 Em Strüßje , Siegfriedstraße 17 . Typical Cologne restaurant. Potato salad like grandma used to make. Really welcoming. ( updated Apr 2023 )

Around Zülpicher Platz [ edit ]

Between Zülpicher Platz and the south train station (Bahnhof Süd) you find a lot of budget-friendly restaurants.

• 50.929512 6.937775 12 Falafel Habibi , Zülpicher Str. 28 . Very authentic small Lebanese restaurant with traditional dishes. Kind staff. Delicious food. Good vibes. They have two stores, which serve the same food (though sweetmeats may vary). ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.929776 6.938517 13 Borsalino , Zülpicher Str. 7 . an Italian-style restaurant on Zülpicher Straße close to Zülpicher Platz. Very affordable prices. ( updated May 2022 )
• 50.930054 6.938988 14 Zülpicher Döner , Zülpicher Pl. 17 . Famous kebab differently made than elsewhere. Fresh homemade bread baked on site, well seasoned and marinated homemade meat, homemade sauce and other fresh toppings. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Kochloffel Köln , Hauptstr. 106 . Franchise. ( updated Apr 2023 )

German and Colognian cuisine [ edit ]

• 50.9399 6.9569 15 Brauhaus FRÜH am Dom , Am Hof 12-18 . Traditional Colognian restaurant. Cologne flair. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 50.9492 6.9619 16 Gaststätte Max Stark , Unter Kahlenhausen 47 ( north of the train station ), ☏ +49 221 200-56-33 , [email protected] . Daily from 11:00 . ( updated Apr 2023 )
• 50.959628 6.954322 17 Zum Kornbrenner Köln , Neusser Str. 171 . A nice furnished restaurant with friendly staff and delicious Colognian food. Service and ambience are right. ( updated Aug 2022 )

International cuisine [ edit ]

• 50.93115 6.93479 18 El Inca . 18:00-24:00 . Görresstraße 2, near Rathenauplatz. Latin-American restaurant. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 50.9332 6.9453 19 Johnny Turista , Rathenauplatz . Easy-going pub/restaurant offering snacks, hot dishes and a daily changing selection of tapas; prices are lower than in most tapas bars. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• 50.950934 6.917082 20 Selam , Ehrenfeldgürtel 91 ( tram station Venloer Straße/Gürtel ). Ethiopian restaurant, opens Tu-F at 17:00 and on weekends at 16:00. Good selection of mild and spicy Ethiopian dishes served on the traditional plate of injera bread. ( updated Jun 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 50.93465 6.87959 21 Landhaus Kuckuck , Olympiaweg 2 ( near Müngersdorfer Stadion (Aachener Straße) ). Tu-Sa 12:00-23:00; Su 12:00-18:00 . Exquisite German, but also international meals.  
• 50.93275 6.93958 22 Fischers Weingenuss & Tafelfreuden , Hohenstaufenring 53 ( between Zülpicher Platz and Rudolfplatz ). Exquisite French-like and modern food, great arrangements of wine and cheese. After noon you can get (quite) cheap 2-way dishes of the day including water or a glass of wine. You have to book (quite early) in advance and a menu will be created on your wishes.  

Drink [ edit ]

Typical Cologne beer is called "Kölsch" and served in bars around town in small glasses, called "Stangen", of 0.2 L. That way the beer is always fresh and cold. Don't worry, waiters will be fast to bring you a new one once your old one is (almost) finished. In more traditional bars and especially the breweries, the waiter (called "Köbes" in local language) will even hand you a fresh Kölsch without being asked, so it is easy to lose track of how much you drank. He will put a pencil line on your coaster for each beer that you drank, this will be the basis for your bill, so do not lose it! To stop the beer from coming, leave your glass almost half full until you have asked for the bill or put your coaster on top of your empty glass.

If you buy bottled Kölsch, take either Reissdorf, Früh, Gaffel or Mühlen, which are rated highest by Cologne citizens. Those looking for a beer with a little more bitterness might like to try Küppers (there are about 30 more brands).

There are so many bars and pubs to choose from that you could spend most of the night going from one bar to the next.

• For traditional breweries, head to the Altstadt around the Dom, where the Früh Kölsch brewery is the most famous with visitors and locals. You will find a younger crowd at Hellers Brauhaus on Roonstraße, near metro station Zülpicher Platz or Brauhaus Pütz on Engelbertstraße close to Rudolfplatz. Furthermore the Päffgen , on the all-bar street Friesenstraße close to the Friesenplatz, and the Mühlen near Heumarkt are traditional brewery pubs but less touristy than the "Früh". Also recommended is Sion , which is a lesser known brand, but hailed to be very good, although some beer enthusiasts have found it lacking character since 2007. Most Altstadt pubs are somewhat scorned as "tourist traps" by locals, however: prices here are usually higher than e.g. on Zülpicher Straße.
• There are a lot of modern bars and lounges all around town. More mainstream ones are on Zülpicher Straße. For something more independent and funky on this street, try Umbruch (funky) or Stiefel (punky). The Low Budget on Aachener Straße next to Moltkestraße metro is a nice, unassuming, punky bar which features a fine selection of drinks and often hosts concerts, poetry or cabaret sessions.
• A lot of stylish places are in the so-called Belgian quarter between Aachener Straße and the Ring, e.g. famous M20 or the Hallmackenreuther.
• A secret Tip are the Bars of the alternative Szene in Cologne. Those you may find the most in Ehrenfeld , like the "Sonic Ballroom", and in the Südstadt , for instance the "Tsunami Club" and the little pub "Lotta", but also in the famous Kwartier Lateng , which is near the University of Cologne, around the Barbarossaplatz , at the Zülpicher Straße and the Kyffhäuser Straße . If you are searching for something more rough, you may find some nice places to rock and roll, on the Schäl Sick in the cityparts Kalk , east from the Kölnarena , like the little Trash Chic bar in the Wiersbergstreet, and in Mülheim , north from the Kölner Messe the little St. Pauli fanszene pub called "Limes", at the Mülheimer Freiheit street, near the Wiener Platz . But, this places are better to be known visited by the younger and not so rich people. So take care of your pockets.

Kölsch [ edit ]

• 50.9399 6.95701 1 Früh am Dom , Am Hof 12 – 14 ( Just south of the cathedral, behind the Domhotel ), ☏ +49 221 2613- 211 . Früh am Dom is a great place to try the local Kölsch brew.  
• 50.93809 6.96043 2 Brauhaus Gaffel , Alter Markt 20-22 , ☏ +49 221 257 7692 . 11:00–01:00 .  
• Brauhaus Heller , Roonstr. 33 (Brauhaus), Volksgartenstrasse 27 (restaurant) ( near metro station Zülpicher Platz ), ☏ +49 221 240-18-81 (W–Sa 17:00–), +49 221 382-626 (restaurant) , [email protected] . Tu–Sa 17:00–; shop M–Th 08:00–16:00 . Younger crowd.  
• 50.93926 6.95945 3 Brauhaus Sion , Unter Taschenmacher 5 ( Altstadt ), ☏ +49 221 - 257 85 40 .  
• 50.94073 6.94207 4 Brauerei Päffgen , Friesenstraße 64-66 .  
• 50.9347 6.96049 5 Brauerei Malzmühle , Heumarkt 6 . 10:00-22:00 . Visited by Bill Clinton.  
• Lommerzheim , Siegesstraße 18 ( in Köln-Deutz (across the railway bridge) ).  
• Ausschank Pfaffen Brauerei Max Päffgen , Heumarkt 62 .  
• Jeck - dä kölsche Keller ( Jeck ), Große Neugasse 42, 50667 Köln ( close to the rhine, in the old city ), ☏ +49 221 17940777 . Sa Su 20:00-03:00 . Only local music is played in the Jeck. ( updated Dec 2017 )

Club [ edit ]

• Alter Wartesaal . Nifty bar and disco beside the central station: various events & exclusive parties. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld & YUCA („Your Urban Club of Arts“) , Bartholomäus-Schink-Straße 65/67 ( at the S-Bahn station "Ehrenfeld", and close to U-Bahn stop "Venloer Straße/Gürtel" ). Club complex in Ehrenfeld. Parties and concerts. Devoted to a variety of international styles including hip-hop, jazz and Latin music. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Bootshaus , Auenweg 173 ( right side of the river near the Zoobrücke bridge ). Serious clubbing. In an old harbor storage facility, but very modern inside. One of Germany's top clubs. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Gebäude 9 , Deutz-Mülheimer Strasse 127 . Concerts. International flavor. Alternative crowd. Quite popular. Inside a defunct factory site on the right bank of the river. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Die Werkstatt . Houses clubs and concerts in an industrial area in Ehrenfeld.  
• Subway . Various parties from Hip Hop, Electro to Indie music with a hip but laid back audience (Moltkestraße metro - next to Rudolfplatz).  
• Blue Shell , Luxemburger Str. 32 . Small old dance and night club, loud and crowded. Rock concerts, music contests, poetry slams, parties, bar sounds. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Artheater , Ehrenfeldgürtel 127 . Ehrenfeld club. Not a great building but the clubbing area is fine. Club books good DJs and artists. In walking distance of Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Bar Orange - on Sudermannplatz, near Ebertplatz. Great atmosphere and great cocktails, or just a beer and a lively chat with Milan, the resident philosopher, or Rainer and Arash, experts on local goings on.
• Blue Lounge Party . Every third Saturday, at the Bürgerhaus Stollwerck in Dreikönigenstraße 23. Starts at 22:00, tickets €5. Percussion, Brazil, balearic and deep house, techno, trance. A must for people who like this kind of music.  
• #TAUSEND Bar . Aachener Straße 57 (Moltkestraße metro): various events & music, nice bar styled by design students from the Köln International School of Design (KISD).  
• 3Klang . On Ehrenfeldgürtel 127, metro station Venloer Str./Gürtel . Every third Friday, 22:00-05:00.  
• Blue Lounge Bar . On Mathiasstraße, lesbian bar. Off-shoot of the very successful party mentioned above.  
• Basswerk Session , bi-monthly, the second Saturday at Gebäude 9 , Deutz-Mülheimer Straße 127-129 (tram 3 or 4, stop at KölnMesse/Osthallen), 23:00–05:00. Long-running and popular drum 'n' bass party in a defunct funky factory hall. Resident DJs often invite renowned guest DJs from the international d'n'b fringe. Alternates bi-monthly with the similar "Phonogenic" party in the same venue.
• Art of House Party . Once a month, the second or third Saturday at Stadtgarten in Venloer Straße 40 (Hans-Böckler Platz metro): nice and really crowded house party, guests around 25.  
• Funky Chicken Club . Every Friday at Opernterassen next to the opera (Appellhofplatz metro): Cologne House Party in a beautiful venue, always crowded, good House and Electronic Music.  
• Apropo . Good parties on Fridays and Saturdays with Soul, Funk, Disco and Hip Hop, a cosy venue in Im Dau 17 (Ulrepforte or Severinstraße metro) easy guests from 20 years on.  
• Sixpack In the vibrant Belgisches Viertel (Aachener Straße 33 - next to Rudolfplatz) you should be aware to wait long or even get rejected especially at a late hour. Mixed music from Electro to Indie with a huge variety of bottled beer.

Sleep [ edit ]

Cologne is an internationally important trade fair city, with expansive fairgrounds in Deutz. The hotel rates rise multi-fold during important fairs [dead link] . If you do not have to, try not to stay in Cologne during those. Alternatively, you can try finding accommodation in Düsseldorf or Bonn , which are a short train ride away and are usually not affected by the rate hikes (but Düsseldorf has its own trade fair calendar, so mind it as well).

For accommodation services the city of Cologne charges an extra 5%-levy Kulturförderabgabe , which is included in your bills. Non-tourists, i.e. those who did not voluntarily choose to head for Cologne, can get the taxes reimbursed.

Camping [ edit ]

• Campingplatz der Stadt Köln . Rhineside camping site with a view of the Dom and city centre, the low drone of the nearby highway bridge does distract from the otherwise peaceful locality. It is right by a cycle and walking trail into the city and is an ideal family site (although there aren't many activities for children), rates are very reasonable and the owner speaks English. Getting to the site is a little difficult; take the tram/train to Rodenkirchen and walk over the bridge, when on the other side turn downriver and the campsite is on the right, there is a restaurant nearby. Adult €6.50.  
• Camping Berger . Another Rhine-side camping site, nearer public transport. With 125 spaces, supermarket, playground and a restaurant. Rates are reasonable (€7.50 for adult per night).  
• 50.92835 6.94212 1 Black Sheep Hostel , Barbarossaplatz 1 . Creative hostel in the middle of nightlife – small breakfast included. There are female only dormitories, but no male only dormitories. It no longer has an own website but apparently reservations are still possible through booking.com.  
• 50.935316 6.935023 2 Die Wohngemeinschaft , Richard-Wagner-Straße 39 ( short walk from Rudolfplatz ), ☏ +49 221 98593090 . 16 rooms. Also has a busy, comfortable bar and a small theatre. Not far from two nightlife areas to the north (around Brüsseler Platz) and south (around Zülpicher Straße). There are female only dormitories, but no male only dormitories. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• 50.93908 6.97328 3 Jugendherberge Köln-Deutz , Siegesstraße 5 ( near Köln Messe/Deutz railway station ), ☏ +49 221 814711 , [email protected] . A traditional German youth hostel, mostly geared towards families and school groups.  
• 50.96985 6.95246 4 Hostel 404 , Neusser Straße 404 .  
• 50.94183 6.95605 5 Station Hostel , Marzellenstraße 40-48 ( across from the main station ). Basic rooms and facilities and the breakfast is extra, but good value nonetheless. They also have storage lockers (deposit required) if you want to keep your valuables somewhere safe.  
• 50.94629 6.92569 6 Weltempfänger Hostel & Café , Venloer Straße 196 ( next to Piusstraße subway station ). In a relaxed and bohemian neighbourhood, this hostel has got a nice bar and friendly staff.  
• 50.93203 6.9402 7 Ameron Hotel Ascot Cologne , Hohenstaufenring 95-97 , ☏ +49 221 952-9650 , [email protected] . This 4-star hotel in the city centre, not far away from the cathedral and a 5-minutes walk from the Friesen quarter. Single from €80, double from €100 (incl breakfast buffet) .  
• 50.94407 6.9562 8 Drei Könige am Dom , Marzellenstraße 58-60 . €85 .  
• 50.93203 6.9402 9 Esplanade Hotel , Hohenstaufenring 56 , ☏ +49 221 921-5570 , [email protected] . This privately-run, 3-star hotel is 2 km from the cathedral and a 10-minute walk from Friesenstraße. Single from €90, double from €120 (incl breakfast buffet) .  
• 50.94009 6.95569 10 Königshof Swiss Quality Hotel , Richartzstraße 14-16 , ☏ +49 221 257-8771 , fax : +49 221 257 87 62 , [email protected] . 3-star hotel 500 m away from the railway station and 13 km from the airport.  
• 50.88114 7.09956 11 Leonardo Hotel Köln Bonn Airport ( formerly the Holiday Inn Cologne-Bonn Airport ), Waldstraße 255 , ☏ +49 220 35610 , [email protected] . Within walking distance of the airport (unless you have a lot of luggage), but they run a shuttle. Park-and-fly packages also offered. Sometimes you can find a decently-priced room here when prices in town go through the roof. Nothing but the airport in walking distance. €99-250 . ( updated Nov 2019 )
• 50.94794 6.94246 12 NH Koeln Mediapark , Im Mediapark 8b , ☏ +49 221 27150 . From €72.70 .  
• 50.92912 6.94255 13 Nuno Hotel ( formerly the ibis Styles Köln City Hotel ), Barbarossaplatz 4a , ☏ +49 221 921 5200 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:30 . Formerly part of the Accor group and independently managed since 2022. Well-located with modern interior, café inside the ground floor and lounge in the basement, 24-hour reception, free WiFi (5 GHz only) and friendly staff. Breakfast buffet available for €15.90. Some furniture in the rooms can be slightly dated, however everything is spotlessly clean. From approx €86 (singles) .  
• 50.94376 6.96014 14 Wyndham Koeln ( formerly Best Western Grand City, Four Points by Sheraton ), Breslauer Platz 2 , ☏ +49 221 16510 , fax : +49 221 165-1333 . The hotel's building is anything but pretty and the room appointments somewhat outdated, but this is made up for with free Wi-Fi and a convenient location. €61 .  
• 50.94529 6.96116 15 Cologne Marriott Hotel ( Köln Marriott Hotel ), Johannisstraße 76-80 , ☏ +49 221 942220 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A short walk from the railway station, the Cologne Marriott is modern and personal. Rooms are big and well appointed. There is an in-house restaurant and breakfast venue, Cast Iron Grill. The Executive lounge (6th floor) with breakfast, dinner and drinks is worth paying the extra for. €130-200 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 50.94321 6.95563 16 Hilton Cologne , Marzellenstraße 13-17 ( 200 m from central station ), ☏ +49 221 130710 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Modern Hilton hotel in the centre, convenient for sightseeing. Prices go through the roof during trade fairs in Deutz. €115-400 .  
• 50.94039 6.96936 17 Hyatt Regency Cologne , Kennedy-Ufer 2A ( in the old town ), ☏ +49 221 828-1234 , [email protected] . 5-star hotel. 306 rooms and suites with views of the River Rhine. Host to gourmet restaurant "Graugans", 13 conference rooms and a spa.  
• 50.93163 6.95155 18 Im Wasserturm , Kaygasse 2 , ☏ +49 221 200 80 . A luxury hotel built inside of a 130-year-old water tower. It has a designer interior and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views. Price: €180-840 per night  
• 50.94025 6.94564 19 Pullman Cologne . Some rooms feature Nespresso machines and a glass partition between bedroom and bathroom. The top-level bar George M offers sweeping vistas of Cologne from its 12th-floor location.  
• 50.94403 6.98423 20 Radisson Blu Cologne , Messe Kreisel 3 , ☏ +49 221 277 200 . Restaurant, bar, gym, spa.  
• 50.94648 6.95716 21 Savoy . A family-run 5-star hotel with a huge spa area and a very nice rooftop bar. It's very close to the main station (exit Breslauer Platz, turn left, ~100 m) and has very good weekend offers. Known as the place of choice for many (German and international) celebrities.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Criminal activity in Cologne is similar to other big cities. Tourists should take normal safety precautions, particularly in the city centre, where pickpockets are known to be active. Also, be careful on the Ring, which is full of clubs and night-time crowds in the streets. Day and night be careful in outlying neighbourhoods like Chorweiler, Porz, Seeberg, Ostheim, Bocklemünd, Ossendorf, and Vingst. In general, stay away from drunk people. At street crossings, watch the trams.

Connect [ edit ]

Wi-fi access [ edit ].

• hotspot.koeln . Since 2014 free city Wi-Fi ("WLAN" in German) is available in many public spaces and in public buildings. To use it you must find a signal (for a map follow the link), tick a box and click past two messages. ( updated Jul 2017 )
• Free Wi-Fi is also available in many bars, restaurants and cafes.
• The free Wi-Fi on ICE trains and at the station identifies itself as "Telekom".
• Telekom HotSpot . Commercial (fast) Wi-Fi service. A "HotSpot Pass" costs €4.95 a day. ( updated Jul 2017 )

Cope [ edit ]

Religious services [ edit ].

Holy mass in Catholic churches near to the central station:

• Dom , Domkloster 3 (next to the central station). Su 07:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 12:00, 17:00, 18:30; M-Sa 06:30, 07:15, 08:00, 09:00, 18:30
• St. Andreas [dead link] , Komödienstr. 8. Su 09:00, 11:00, 18:00; M-F 12:05; Sa 09:00, 17:00
• St. Mariä Himmelfahrt , Marzellenstr. 26. Su 11:00; W Th 10:30; Sa 17:00, 18:30
• Minoritenkirche , Kolpingplatz 5. Su 09:00, 11:00, 16:00; Tu-F 99:00

Go next [ edit ]

• Bonn — the former capital of West Germany is due south and easy to reach by train or Stadtbahn (Regional Express 5; MittelRheinBahn MRB 48; U-Bahn line 16 and 18; also ICEs, ICs, and EC's ).
• Brühl — almost a suburb of Cologne, contains the Augustusburg Palace which has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List . The palace is one of the key works of Balthasar Neuman, and contains one of the finest Rococo interiors in the world, the highlight being the main staircase. Also in the grounds is the magnificent hunting Lodge of Falkenslust. Brühl can be easily reached by train in around 20 minutes from Cologne. The theme park of Phantasialand is also in Brühl.
• Königswinter — A small town reachable by train.
• Ruhr (Ruhrgebiet) — If you are interested in heavy industry this might be a worthwhile trip. It is about 100 km north of Cologne. The region, which was the centre of mountain (coal and steel) industry in Germany, is going through a structural transformation and proudly presents its industrial past on the Industrial Heritage Trail [1] [dead link] .
• Zülpich — a small town southwest of Cologne dating from Roman times. It has a newly opened museum centred on Roman baths and bathing culture. It is also a gateway to the forested hills of the Eifel region.

International [ edit ]

Due to Cologne's proximity to the German-Belgian-Dutch border, weekend trips to foreign destinations are easy to arrange. Thalys operates high speed trains to Paris and Brussels , and Deutsche Bahn to Amsterdam , making each city only a few hours away. You can also travel to Maastricht (a city in the Netherlands with a beautiful city centre where the Maastricht Treaty of the European Union was signed in 1992) for a low cost by taking a train to Aachen then by bus to Maastricht – See: Aachen#From The Netherlands for details. (Direct buses are available to the same destinations but will take longer.)

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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 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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Cologne travel blog — the ultimate cologne travel guide for first-timers.

Possessing beautiful landscapes, marvel architectures, top entertainment spots, rich in history and culture, Cologne is a favorite destination of many tourists. Cologne is a beautiful city in Germany, spanning on the two banks of the poetic Rhine river. Cologne is not only one of the oldest German cities but also the 4th largest city in Germany after Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. With a history of more than 2000 years, this place possesses many unique and impressive architectural works with historical value. So, what to do, where to go and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Cologne for the first-time? Let’s check out our Cologne travel blog (Cologne blog) with the fullest Cologne travel guide (Cologne guide, Cologne tourist guide, Cologne city guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do as well as suggested Cologne itinerary 4 days 3 nights to find out the answer!

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Cologne travel blog: Overview of Cologne

The name Cologne, in Roman times was Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium comes from the Roman empress Julia Agrippina (Agrippina the Younger). The Emperror Claudius’s wife was born in Köln and lifted it to a city status in AD 50. During the Roman era, the city of Cologne was the reign of the provincial governor Germania Inferior (Lower Germania). Around AD 80, with the canal leading water from Eifel, Köln received one of the longest Roman aqueducts. Roman remains were found in the harbour area of ​​Cologne in 2007 when an ancient ship dating back 1,900 years was discovered.

Cologne in German is Köln. This is the most famous and fourth largest city in Germany, located on the banks of the Rhine River in the western Germany. Because of its convenient location, which is quite close to neighboring countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, Cologne is often chosen as one of the most popular places to visit when it comes to German tourism by traveling from here to other European destinations and countries is quite convenient and easy as well as vice versa.

Cologne is Germany’s oldest city dating back to the Roman era in 50 BC. For centuries, the city was the religious center of Germany, as Three Kings (Three Wise Men) were once buried here. Therefore, Cologne is also known as one of the leading pilgrimage sites today.

Some interesting things about the German city of Cologne

• The city was destroyed to 90% through extensive bombing by British and American troops during World War II.
• Religion in the city of Cologne is quite diverse due to the large displacement from the wave of immigration. About 14% of the population are Catholic, 20% are Protestant, 10% (mostly Turkish immigrants) are Muslim, the remaining 30% are other religions or have no religion.
• In medieval times, Cologne was the largest city in Europe.
• It is the warmest and wettest city in Germany due to its location adjacent to the marine and continental climate.
• This city is known as the Germany’s capital of Carnival.
• The city with the Germany’s largest Turkish community.

Cologne travel blog: When to visit?

In terms of climate, the hottest months of the year are July and August like other European countries and the coolest and most pleasant time of the year is May, June or October. Besides the weather factor, the peak tourist season in Cologne also depends on the cultural events taking place here. The city of Cologne usually organizes a lot of events taking place in August – November such as the festival Weltjugendtag (World Youth Day) (Youth’s festival takes place on September 17 – 18 every year), the Ringfest music festival (the end of August, every year), Carnival from November to February.

However, usually February is the most exciting days of the festival of Carnival. Therefore, the peak season for Cologne tourism is known as October, then August and February.

You can consider the time to travel to Cologne as I mentioned above, such as May, June or November, which are fine. The day I went was on November 25, the Christmas market started here. The weather was quite warm, around 10 – 14 degrees Celsius, the trees have not lost all their leaves and there were not too crowded with tourists as in the peak season.

Cologne travel guide: Getting to Cologne

There are many ways to get to Cologne by train, plane, bus… To getting from Cologne Bonn Airport which located 14km to the southeast of Cologne you can take a S-Bahn train for 14km to get to Cologne Central Station. To find the best cheap flights with good tickets and suitable schedules from other European cities or your location you can access Google Flights, Skyscanner to search.

To travel to Cologne by train or bus or other means of transport with best prices and optimal routes you can go to OMIO.com .

Cologne guide: Getting around Cologne

Germany has one of the best public transport systems in Europe. I find traveling here very easy and the cost is also quite affordable compared to other countries. Tickets can be used by all means of transport such as bus, train, tram… There is also no ticket management system like in the Netherlands or Spain but mainly based on the consciousness of each person. If you do not buy a ticket, you will be suddenly checked and fined. You can buy tickets on the app, ticket vending machines at stations, all are okay. Ticket prices and ways to travel when traveling to Cologne is quite similar to traveling in Berlin :

• Single ticket price: €2.7
• Day ticket price: €7

I recommend that if you travel to Cologne with a group, buying a group ticket will be much more profitable than a single ticket. Single tickets for groups of 2-5 people only cost €13.4. If you go with 5 people, you only have to pay less than €3 per day for the ticket.

You can also buy a Cologne Card (KölnCard) at Klook. Click here to receive a €5 discount code. Then book tickets at the link Cologne Card – Köln Card for €9/day and €18/2 days for all means of transport and discounted entrance fees to Cologne tourist attractions. Please refer to the link above for more information. In general, I think buying this ticket is worth it, only €2 more than the public transport ticket, but you will get about 20% off the ticket price to access the places to visit. Just like the ticket above, you can buy a Köln Card in groups of up to 5 people for only € 19/day.

Tips: It is best to buy alternate tickets if you stay here for a long time. For example, on the day you decide to visit many tourist attractions, buy this Cologne Card is okay, on other day if you just go for sightseeing or shopping, you should buy a public transport ticket is enough.

In addition, in Cologne, there is also a type of hop on – hop off bus /train which take you to the places of attractions. The other day I saw a red bus/green train stop in front of Cologne Cathedral. Ticket price is €15 per day. You can buy it there.

Cologne travel blog: Where to stay?

Before my trip, I asked some friends who had already been to Cologne and were introduced to 2 places to stay in Cologne that they had experienced and were satisfied with. One place is a clean, modern hotel about 10 minutes by train from the central station. The hotel’s name is Holiday Inn Express ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ). Room rate was about €80/night for 2 people including breakfast.

The second is the Haus am Dom – Business Apartments und Ferienwohnungen ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) with a kitchenette and just 300 meters from the station.

After reviewing, I have decided to chose to stay at the apartment. I must say that I was extremely satisfied with this accommodation. Room rates are around €90/night but it’s worth it. The house is super close to the center, from here to the famous Cologne tourist attractions very close. My apartment has a view overlooking the famous Cologne Cathedral, but the view is not very nice but that’s okay. Overall, the location is too good, the apartment is clean, communicating with the owner is easy, nothing to complain about.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hyatt Regency Cologne ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Lindner Hotel City Plaza ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• AZIMUT Hotel Cologne ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Excelsior Hotel Ernst ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Pullman Cologne ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Check out more top and best hotels in Cologne on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Cologne blog: Where to go, what to do?

Cologne cathedral.

Cologne Cathedral is the most famous symbol when it comes to Cologne. With a height of 157m, this is the second tallest church in Germany and the third in the world. The church is designed in Gothic architecture similar to the Milan Cathedral in Milan.

According to many historians, underneath this church there are quite a few relics since Roman times from the 1st centuryto the 4th century. Until 1164, the remains of three “holy kings” (Three Wise Men) were brought back from Milan, resulted in rising waves of pilgrimages. That was the main reason the church was completely rebuilt in 1284 to meet that need. This place was once heavily damaged during World War II when more than 70 bombs were dropped here. When coming to this famous Cologne tourist place, you will have the opportunity to admire the photos taken during the war on the side of the church.

In addition, in 1996, this place was also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site and is one of the most beautiful Gothic architectures in Europe today. The Catholic Church has also bestowed Cologne with the title of “holy city”, a title only two other recognized cities in the world, Rome and Istanbul.

Entrance ticket: €3. With this ticket, you are allowed to climb up to the upper tower to see the whole city. The day I went, it fell on a Sunday morning, so the church was open for visitors to free visit. However, I only went to inside a bit, not deep because everyone were doing a ceremony.

A 2-min walk from the Museum Ludwig Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany Height: 157 m Construction started: August 15, 1248 Opened: September 27, 1322

The old city of Cologne is famous for hundreds of different museums, the most famous of which are the Ludwig museum and the Chocolate museum.

Museum Ludwig

The Ludwig Museum was founded by Mr. Peter Ludwig and his wife, who had always had a great passion and devoted support to the arts in the 1976s. This museum is known as a place of mass archives of Picasso’s works with 774 works were all contributed by Mr. and Mrs. Ludwig. This famous place is located right behind Cologne cathedral so it is easy to find. The day I went, I didn’t go inside, so I don’t know how it was. ^_^

A 2-min walk from Cologne Cathedral Address: Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Köln, Germany Hours: 10AM–6PM/Monday: Closed Established: 1976 Ticket price: €12. You get an extra 20% off if you have a Köln card.

Chocolate Museum

The Cologne Chocolate Museum is located on the banks of the River Rhine and was built in 1993 and established by German chocolatier Imhoff-Stollwerck Erck. When you come here, you will have the opportunity to learn about the history of chocolate development in Europe, learn all the processes from cocoa production in a closed room to processing and packaging, or even attend short courses on how to make chocolate. Of course, there is an additional fee compared to the entrance ticket.

Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a, 50676 Köln, Germany Hours: 10AM–6PM Ticket price: 12.5€

Other museums

• Wallraf-Richartz Museum (Display art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century).
• Roman-Germanic Museum (art, trinkets and everyday objects from the Roman era and the Merowing dynasty of the Franks).

Hohenzollern ‘love locks’ bridge

In addition to Cologne Cathedral, the image of the Hohenzollern bridge is also one of the typical symbols of Cologne. On this iron bridge there are tens of thousands of love locks that are memorabilia proving the love of lovers – images often seen on bridges in Rome or Paris. Honestly, I was quite shocked with the number of love locks here, extremly a lot that there is no place for them on hand rails, so tourists turn to hanging locks on the fences. I don’t believe in this belief very much, but looking at the number of keys here is really overwhelming.

Total length: 409 m Longest span: 168 m Construction started: June 1907 Opened: 1911

Cologne Old Town (Altstadt)

Cologne has a famous old town, Brauhaus, next to the St. Ursula – Romanesque Catholic Church. There are many famous beer shops here and the architecture of the houses and buildings is also quite beautiful. Because I came here on Christmas Eve, locals make the most of the space in the old town to turn into Christmas market stalls. They decorate quite eye-catching and elaborate. In general, only the small markets in the old town of Cologne are enough to defeat the most famous Christmas markets in Helsinki or Stockholm. I claim because before going to Cologne, I also visited the Stockholm and Helsinki Christmas markets which were quite boring…

Cologne Zoological Garden

Cologne Zoological Garden was founded in 1860 with the largest elephant park in Europe. The zoo is more than 20 hectares wide and is home to more than 10,000 animals and more than 700 different species. Besides the zoo, there is also a very large aquarium for fans of oceanography.

Address: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Köln, Germany Hours: 9AM–6PM Ticket price: €19.5 for adults, €14.5 for children

Cologne Botanical garden

Right next to the zoo is the Cologne Botanical garden which is well worth a visit. Here planted a lot of different plants and flowers from tropical to temperate. The day I went, unfortunately, the greenhouse inside was closed, so I just walked around the gardens outside. In general, this area is very large and if you are a flower and plant lover, you should not miss it. Trees and plants are very diverse, I even see Vietnamese coconut trees in the introduction board.

Address: Alter Stammheimer Weg, 50735 Köln, Germany Opened: 1864 Hours: 9AM–7PM

Köln Triangle

This place is famous for its best view of the city. With a ticket price of only €3, you will be able to take the elevator to the top floor (29th) and comfortably enjoy the view of the city with a view of Cologne Cathedral and the Hohenzollern love lock bridge. I decided to come here in the evening because I wanted to see what the city looked like when lights up. In general, the scene was beautiful, but unfortunately the bridge was not lit so the scene is not as spectacular as the photos I’ve seen. You should bring a mechanical camera to take pictures, I took it with my phone, so the picture is quite boring, in return, it is really stunning to see the scene with my own eyes. This place is a high-rise building located right next to the foot of the Hohenzollern bridge.

Address: Ottopl. 1, 50679 Köln, Germany Height: 103 m CTBUH Opened: 2005

Phantasialand

A large theme park in Germany that attracts more than 2 million visitors every year. This park was built in 1967 by Gottlieb Löffelhardt and Richard Schmidt. This park is famous for its thrilling games, especially roller coasters. Besides the adventurous rides, it has also been built some more play areas for young children with garden flowers, streams and many different themes, including the Chinese-style Asian Theme. The most famous among them is the 4-star Ling Bao hotel with a full and modern restaurant, spa, and sauna system.

Address: Berggeiststraße 31-41, 50321 Brühl, Germany Hours: 9AM–6PM Ticket price: €43.5 for adults and €34 for children aged 4-11. If you go on your birthday, it’s free.

If you are wondering, do not know where to go when coming to Cologne, Rhein Park is also a great suggestion for you. This is the ideal stopover for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a space that brings a sense of peace. Because of its rich and diverse flora, Rhein Park is a place that many people choose to organize picnics, camping, picnics with friends and relatives. Therefore, this is also a tourist spot in Cologne you should not miss.

Address: Auenweg Rheinpark, 50679 Köln, Germany Hours: Open 24 hours

Some other famous Cologne tourist attractions

• The Court of Appeal Cologne Building
• The European Flight Academy: I just passed this place, but because it was quite beautiful, I took a photo. It’s just an aviation academy, but it’s beautiful when photographed. This place is located on the banks of the Rhine river, direction from the Musical hall to the zoo.

Cruise ships on the Rhine are always busy with tourists because they offer the most special way to visit the city of Cologne. On the 1-hour cruising journey, you will be treated to a wonderful view from the twin towers at Cologne Cathedral, the old town with its colorful walls and the magnificent Hohenzollern Bridge. Especially at night, the city will become extremely bright and poetic through the eyes of passionate tourists, love the people and the small things here.

Cologne travel blog: What to eat?

With a diverse and rich cuisine, coming to Cologne you will easily find a lot of delicious and attractive dishes in this beautiful city. In particular, to discover the quintessence of the cuisine here, you should enjoy dishes such as: Kölsch wine or beer, Kölsche Kavir black pudding, Halve Hahn (Rye bread roll, an attractive and indispensable cheese bread roll of the German. The aroma of barley mixed with the taste of cheese is the strongest attraction for even the most demanding diners), mashed potatoes, fried pork rolls, Bratwurst sausage,… In addition, you should also taste the delicious taste of Pork Knuckles served with pickles.

Next is the dish with a long name that is hard to remember, but its delicious taste makes you remember forever. That is Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Soorbrode) – a dish that is a combination of sauces with a special recipe from raisins and red cabbage with horse meat or beef. The accompaniment of this dish is potatoes, not bread like other dishes.

Cologne blog: Shopping in Cologne

If you want to shop in Cologne, you should visit one of the two places Hohe Strasse and Schildergasse.

• Hohe Strasse: This street is close to Cologne Cathedral and is a shopping place exclusively for pedestrians with many famous clothing, footwear and jewelry stores such as Galeria Kaufhof, Peek & Cloppenburg…
• Schildergasse is located in the center of the city and stretches about 500m with many famous brands. This is also considered the most famous shopping center in Cologne.

Cologne travel guide: Day trips from Cologne

Cologne is conveniently located and very close to other popular tourist attractions in Germany. If you have time, let’s go to some more places below.

• Dusseldorf : About 1 hour from Cologne by train. The cultural and fashion center of Germany.
• Bonn : The hometown of the famous composer Beethoven and only 1 hour by train from Cologne.
• Brühl Castle : 17km from Cologne and located between Bonn and Cologne.
• Castle Schloss Drachenburg : About 40 minutes from Cologne by train. Linz am Rhein old town: 1 hour by train from Cologne.

During my trip, I went to Dusseldorf for a day. It’s not a waste at all. Honestly, I was hesitant at first whether should I come here, but after that trip I known that Dusseldorf is one of the most famous and wealthy tourist cities in Germany. Even the day I went, the number of tourists in Dusseldorf could be said to be much larger than in Cologne. I was quite surprised and more beautiful than my initial expectations!

In addition, Cologne is also quite close to a number of other European cities such as Amsterdam, Luxembourg, Paris or Strassbourg. If you want to go to some other European countries, then think about the destinations above. It takes about 3-4 hours to travel by bus/train.

Cologne travel blog: Suggested Cologne travel itinerary 4 days 3 nights

During my journey, I went to Dusseldorf ​​airport before traveling to Cologne, so I spent a day in Dusseldorf. Stayed in Dusseldorf for one night then took the train to Cologne the next day and stayed 3 nights here. The Cologne travel itinerary 4 days 3 nights you can refer to as the map below. I also followed this route, but after that itinerary, I learned some experiences that you can change such as:

Day 1: Follow the red line through places like:

Cologne Cathedral – Historical Town Hall – Ludwig Museum – River Banks – Old Town – St. Martin Church – Chocolate Museum – Concert Hall

Day 2: Follow the blue line. You can skip the Musical Dome and Bastion locations because Bastion is small and boring. With Musical Dome if you don’t go inside, it won’t look very nice during the day. Going to the Kölntriangle in the evening to see the better Musical Dome. On Day 2 you can take the train from the center to the zoo. Then go to the Botanical garden right next to it and go to other places like the wine museum, the Regional appeal court building and the Eigelstein-city-gate.

Day 3: Phantaisland Theme Park

Day 4: Take a day trip to Dussedolf, Bonn or Brühl castle.

Cologne guide: Traveling cost for self-sufficient trip 4 days 3 nights

• Hotel: €45/person – €135 for 3 nights
• Eating: €30/day
• Traveling, entrance tickets: €90. Because I went with only 2 people but still bought group tickets, I had to pay more than if I went with 5 people.

Total about €350 for all traveling costs to Cologne for 4 days. Eating and drinking, I find the prices in supermarkets in Germany are the same everywhere, restaurants are a bit more expensive than Berlin. In general, €10/meal is too good, even €8 has a good meal.

Cologne travel blog: Some useful tips before you go

• Cologne is very crowded with tourists, so always be careful with your belongings when coming here, especially at the piers, stations and crowded places.
• In Germany, besides the famous Lidl chain with low prices, the Netto discount supermarket is also another choice that you can consider.
• Note that when using public transport tickets or even a Cologne card, you should stamp the ticket when boarding those vehicles.
• Cologne Cathedral is located right next to the central station (Köln haustbahnhof), so I recommend you stay in places near the stations or have easy public transport connections for more convenience.
• Besides the famous German cologne tourist destinations, boating along the Rhine River is also a fairly popular activity of tourists. You can buy a 1-hour cruise along the riverside for €8 here.
• It is a fact in Germany that the rate of homeless/beggars is very high. It can be said that it belongs to the top of Europe because I have not seen it in many other countries before. You can see people begging for money everywhere from the main door of the church, on the street, at stations or even they get on the train to ask for each person. Don’t be too surprised if you come here to see it. Begging is not inherently illegal here, so this situation is quite common and in stark contrast to the Netherlands where it is considered illegal.

Talking about the feeling of traveling to Cologne, Germany, I am also quite impressed with this place. Basically, when I first learned about the city of Cologne, I only knew about Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge, but after going, I saw that there are many other interesting places here. If you just want to get an overview of the city, 1 day is also possible. Or if you want to experience slowly, come here for about 4 days. In addition, the Christmas atmosphere here is also quite bustling, crowded and the weather is much better than Berlin. The Christmas market is right next to Cologne Cathedral and the old town is quite beautiful and bustling.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Cologne you can refer to

• Cologne Card
• Chocolate Museum Skip-the-Line Admission Ticket in Cologne
• Cologne Private Flight Tour
• Dusseldorf 1-Hour Cruise and 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Cologne: Panoramic City Cruise
• Cologne: TimeRide VR Time Travel Experience Ticket
• Cologne: Brewery Tour with Three “Kölsch” Tastings
• Cologne: 3-Hour Harbor Tour Cruise
• Cologne to Königswinter: Siebengebirge Cruise
• Cologne: Guided Tour of the Melaten Cemetery
• Experience Cologne: KölnCard
• Cologne: 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour
• Cologne: 3-Hour Südstadt Food Tour
• Cologne: Kölsch Beer and Brew House 2-Hour Tour
• Cologne: Guided Highlights Tour with a Local

Read more Germany guide here

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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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• Cologne Travel Guide: Your Rhineland Adventure In Germany's Historic City

Cologne Travel Guide: Your Rhineland Adventure in Germany's Historic City

The fourth largest city in Germany, Cologne is located on the Rhine river. Germany's one of the liberal cities and is the hotspot for media, business and tourism in Germany. It is a major tourist location and is also Germany's most-visited destination. Cologne is the perfect destination for sports, Roman history and chocolate lovers.Roman wall, avant-garde structures, medieval churches galore, new postmodern quarter and nondescript postwar buildings are what you can find in the city of Cologne. Cologne cathedral, Ludwig Museum, Romano-Germanic Museum, Groß St. Martin, Botanical Garden are some of the major tourist attractions in the city to add to your Germany trip packages .

Flughafen Köln-Wahn also known as the Cologne Bonn airport is the main airport of Cologne. The airport is 14 km away from the center of the city. It operates flights from major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kochi and Trichy.

Getting out

Cologne operates trains and flights to many nearby countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Uk and Czech Republic. You can visit these countries on your trip to Cologne.

Public Transport

The public transport system in Cologne is well connected with a network of buses and trams. The fares vary according to different locations. They are cheap and are a convenient mode of transport. Since cologne is a small city you can easily explore the city by foot.

Taxi & Airport transfer

The local taxis are controlled by the city and fares are metered. The taxis are in ivory colour and you can hire the taxi if the sign is lit. You can easily get a taxi from the airport to reach the city.

Transport & city passes

Kolm welcome tourist card is a travel pass with which you can travel for free for 24 hours and also get 50% off on your public transportation. Different types of tickets are also available which can be purchased at the ticket vending machine.

Driving & Car rental

Renting a car allows you to freely explore the city. You should get a map because due to poor signs, there are chances to get lost in the city's traffic. But rental cars you can plan your travel according to your own schedule.

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Cologne travel guide

Cologne tourism | cologne guide, you're going to love cologne.

2,000 years of history live in Cologne, from the skyline still dominated by the High Gothic twin spires of the Cologne Cathedral to the sleek post-modern architecture of its rejuvenated waterfront.

Kölsch is a local type of beer, and it's also a word that is used to describe the carefree way of life of the city; it's a place with an upbeat, fun-loving spirit. When you drink kölsch at a local beer hall or tavern, the waiters will keep serving you until you cover the top of your glass with your coaster.

Carnival season is often called the "fifth season" in Cologne, and it begins on November 11 at 11:11 am, resuming after a Christmas break and peaking with Rose Monday, two days before Ash Wednesday, with a parade.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Cologne

1. the history.

There are monuments to various periods of history everywhere you turn in Cologne, including architectural features like the Roman wall monument. The Museum Schnütgen houses a renowned collection of medieval art in a former church. If you're a fan of ancient history, the Roman-Germanic Museum include exhibits of art and architecture from Roman and medieval times.

2. The Architecture

The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most famous of the city's collection of gorgeous High Gothic architecture buildings. Work began on the towering twin spires and ornate stonework of the cathedral in 1248 and was only completed in 1880. There are also many lovely Romanesque churches to view that also date from the Middle Ages, along with post-war buildings, and examples of avant-garde and postmodern design.

3. Rhineland Beauty

The Rhine-Ruhr area is Germany's industrial hub, but it is also a captivating area where the Rhine River winds along green banks, with a green belt of parkland that circles the city. A river cruise is one of the best ways to get stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.

4. The Arts

Cologne is home to a lively theater and performing arts scene, along with many world class galleries and museums. The Käthe Kollwitz Museum houses a unique collection of the renowned modern artist's work. The Museum Ludwig features modern art from various eras, including one of the largest Picasso collections in Europe.

5. Food and Drink

The area is part of the Middle Rhine wine growing area, known for producing wonderful Rieslings and other white wines. There is a thriving local cuisine based on meats and local produce, including specialties like Himmel und Erde, or mashed potatoes with apples, usually served with black pudding, or the many varieties of sausage.

What to do in Cologne

1. kölner dom: icon of the city.

Once the tallest structure in the world, the cathedral is a 13th-century wonder of construction, the jaw-dropping facade as dwarfing as the vaulted interior. This gothic marvel is also home to intriguing treasures and relics, such as the Shrine of the Three Kings. Don't forget to climb up and glance over the city from the southern spire, or take a walk around the monument to discover the Hohenzollern Bridge, smothered in love locks.

2. Altstadt: Days of Past and Present

The west bank of Medieval Cologne was defended by great wall fortifications, whose gates protect a maze of cobbled streets punctuated by romanesque churches to this day. This rich past is complimented by a bounty of museums: discover the art collections of the Ludwig, the Wallraf-Richartz, the Kolumba, or the history of the fragrance named after the city. There's even a chocolate museum!

3. Belgisches Viertel: Eat, Play, Drink

This up-and-coming studen neighborhood is a definite favorite among locals. A trip to the Belgian Quarter showcases the life of the city, teeming with hip bars, good eats and boutique shops galore. On warm nights, Brüsseler Platz, the square home to the neo-roman St. Michael's Church, transforms into a festive open-air gathering point for anyone hitting the town.

4. Kölner Zoo: Immersive Animal Kingdom

World-renowned home to over 10,000 animals, the Cologne Zoo offers one of the greatest experiences of its kind in Europe. Elephants, jungle cats, tropical birds, even the fish enjoy vast habitats with state-of-the-art viewing opportunities for visitors. Endangered species like the bonobo and snow tiger are unique sights. If time allows, make sure not to miss the nearby botanical gardens either.

5. Rheinpark: R&R by the Rhine

The 100 acres of Rheinpark deliver beautiful landscapes by the river, featuring a beach club, the Tanzbrunnen open-air theater and, most impressively, the roman-style Claudius-Therme baths. From April to October, a cable car directly connects the park to the Zoo and Flora across the river, with phenomenal views all the way.

Where to Eat in Cologne

For authentic German cuisine, look to Bei Oma Kleinmann - named after the woman who ran the kitchen until age 95 - for delicious schnitzel and other dishes from EUR13. Sorgenfrei combines a casual vibe with fine-dining perfectionism in the Belgian Quarter, with a four-course dinner menu that starts at EUR35 per person. With an artistic dining room decor, Hanse Stube offers fine dining with a menu that changes daily, with portions starting at about EUR45. While the culinary offerings include the finest of upscale fare, you may just have your best meal at a pub, including specialties like sausage, potato fritters, or pork knuckle.

When to visit Cologne

There is pleasant weather in Cologne from early spring through late fall, with some humidity in the summer months. The fall offers the best bargains for tourists. Carnival season, which begins in November, and the many Christmas markets, draw tourists during the off season.

How to Get to Cologne

The Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) lies just over nine miles from the city center. A typical taxi trip from the airport to the downtown area costs about EUR27 for a 15-minute ride. The Intercity-Express or high-speed ICE rail network leaves from a station inside the airport directly to the city center for about EUR8. You can also catch the Regional Express (RE) and urban trains (S-Bahn), and there is a subway station at the airport too.

Köln Hauptbahnhof is a regional and international hub for rail travel, connecting with the national ICE high-speed network. The RegionalExpress, RegionalBahn and local S-Bahn trains, along with EuroNight and DB NachtZug night services all use the main terminal. Connections are available to Frankfurt and many other destinations in Germany and through Europe.

The Cologne Beltway is a hub of highways that circle the city, including Bundesautobahn 1, Bundesautobahn 3, and Bundesautobahn 4. Cologne lies within an hour's distance of many other German cities in the industrial area, such as Düsseldorf, and Dortmund. Cologne is less than 50 miles from Belgium, and about 120 miles from Frankfurt, making it an easy stop in a multi-city vacation.

The Cologne Central Station handles local, intercity, and international bus and train services. Long distance bus travel to Cologne is a budget-priced option from many European locations, with bus trips from the UK starting at only EUR27. Companies with service to Cologne include FlixBus and Megabus.

Airports near Cologne

Airlines serving cologne, where to stay in cologne.

The mid-priced Conti Hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms in a friendly, family-run atmosphere. The Hopper Hotel Et Cetera in Cologne is housed in a former monastery that was built in 1893, while the Hyatt Regency Cologne overlooks the iconic cathedral, with spacious modern rooms and upscale amenities.

Popular Neighborhoods in Cologne

Altstadt – Cologne's old town centers around the Cathedral, and includes historic sites like the Romanesque church of Groß St. Martin, the Roman Dionysus Mosaic, and the Mikveh, a Jewish ritual bath. This is where you'll be able to explore Cologne's famed beer culture first hand, from hoisting a mug in huge beer halls like Peters Brauhaus to savoring the wares in microbreweries like Braustelle.

The Belgian Quarter – this area has developed into a stylish neighborhood with Art Nouveau buildings and a relaxed, cafe culture along with multicultural food offerings. Brüsseler Platz is a favorite place for the younger generation of locals to hang out and have fun on summer evenings.

Ehrenfeld – this hip inner-city neighborhood is known for its bohemian vibe, with street art along Senefelderstrasse, and cool independent boutiques and restaurants. It's the place to relax and check out art galleries in between coffee breaks, wine tasting, and sampling the local cuisine.

Where to stay in popular areas of Cologne

Most booked hotels in cologne, how to get around cologne, public transportation.

There is an extensive network of buses and trams that cover the city. Fares are determined on a zone basis. The KölnCard is available to tourists for 24 hours' unlimited travel on the system and up to 50 percent savings at many attractions for EUR9 per person, or EUR19 for up to five people.

Taxis are plentiful in Cologne, many of them cream-colored Mercedes sedans. A trip of five miles should cost you about EUR19.

Cologne is a relatively small city where you can walk to many of its attractions, making a car rental a luxury. Companies like Enterprise and Sixt are available, with a compact rental starting at about EUR35 per day. Street parking is rare, with rates in public lots starting at EUR1.50-2.50 per hour with a daily maximum of EUR10.00-25.00 during peak weekday hours.

Best car rental deals in Cologne

2 Adults, 2 Bags

Intermediate SUV

5 Adults, 3 Bags

The Cost of Living in Cologne

Shopping streets.

From the Cathedral, Hohe Straße takes you into Schildergasse, and along that stretch you'll find major retailers along with souvenir shops and small boutiques. Breite Straße is another street lined with both chains and small businesses. For hip clothing stores and boutiques, you'll want to head to Ehrenstraße or Venloer Straße in the Belgian Quarter.

Groceries and Other

Supermarket chains in Cologne include Rewe, an all-purpose market with a good selection and convenient locations throughout the city, and Kaisers, a national chain. Standa Markt is more expensive, but features a nice deli section. A gallon of milk costs about EUR2.50, and a dozen eggs an average of EUR1.65.

Home » Europe » Germany » Cologne

Travel blogs and features from one of Germany’s most colorful cities: Cologne (Köln)

Cologne Travel Guide

The ultimate guide to the coolest things to do and see in cologne.

Germany’s fourth largest city is more interesting than you think. With cool events, trendy cafés and a vibrant, colorful culture, there’s a lot more to the city than just a really big church. Start here with my basic Cologne travel tips, or jump down below to read my latest Cologne travel blogs .

When to Visit

Summers in Cologne can get hot and quite humid, but fall, especially September, with the changing colors and slightly lower hotel prices can be the perfect time to visit Cologne for sightseeing in terms of weather.

Winter does get cold and frosty, but the festive atmosphere can be lovely, after all, Germany does really know how to do Christmas markets!

Best Things To Do

Visit Museum Ludwig –  Situated just behind the famous Cathedral, the Museum Ludwig is one of Germany’s best contemporary art museums. They’ve got a great permanent exhibition including works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and one of the largest collections of Picasso’s work anywhere in Europe.

Explore Ehrenfeld – Ehrenfeld is one of Cologne’s coolest neighborhoods. Many street artists from around the world have left behind murals and other public art pieces. Check out the streets around Ehrenfelder Bahnhof for some large-scale murals. The yearly Cityleaks festival takes place here every September and includes several urban art tours, exhibitions and performances.

Leave a lock on Cologne’s Love Lock Bridge – Hohenzollernbrücke is covered in what must be thousands (if not millions) of love locks. They might be pretty cheesy, but the hundreds of colors, inscriptions and engravings made it more interesting than it may initially seem. Plus it’s a great place to take some photos.

LGBTQ – Gay Cologne Travel Guide

With nearly 10% of the local Cologne residents identifying as gay or lesbian, Cologne has a reputation for being Germany’s gay city. And that reputation certainly isn’t without reason – here are some of the most important things to know about gay Cologne.

Memorial for Gay and Lesbian Victims of Nazism –  The memorial’s official name is the  Rosa Winkel Mahnmal  and it’s conveniently located along the Rhine River within walking distance to Cologne’s most important tourist attractions. Inaugurated in 1995, it pays homage to the gays and lesbians who lost their lives due to the Nazi regime leading up to the Second World War.

Carnival   – Around one million people visit Cologne for Carnival every February and the costumes are really a sight unto themselves! This street party is really for everyone, and it’s a tradition carried out across the German speaking world, but being the gay city it is, Cologne manages to make it extra gay!

Pride   – In June, Cologne hosts one of the largest gay pride events (locally know as Christopher Street Day) in Germany. Centered around Rudolfplatz and the Belgian Quarter, the festivities include live outdoor musical performances, the all-important parade and multiple parties in the evenings.

More gay travel resources here.

Follow @ travelsofadam on Instagram for more travel tips!

Cologne, Germany Travel Blogs

Cologne’s Love Lock Bridge

Cologne’s love lock bridge, Hohenzollernbrücke, is one of the more interesting (and photogenic) tourist attractions in Cologne

10 Things to do in Cologne, Germany – It’s More Cool Than You Think!

Travel guide to the best things to do in Cologne (Köln), Germany. My super interesting guide includes the best restaurants, bars & shopping

Gay Germany – Europe’s Most Queer Country

Germany is Europe’s most queer country according to a new LGBT report. Here’s all you need to know about traveling to gay Germany

Street Art by ROA in Cologne’s Ehrenfeld Neighborhood

Ehrenfeld in Cologne is a great place to discover Cologne street art. This mural by Belgian artist ROA is one of the highlights

27 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit Cologne Carnival

Looking for travel information for Cologne during the Carnival (Köln Karneval?) – Look no further for the best photos & travel tips!

Cologne Memorial for Gay and Lesbian Victims of Nazism

Photos and information about the Memorial for Gay & Lesbian Victims of Nazism. One of Germany’s three gay Holocaust memorials

Cologne Carnival: What have I gotten myself into?

Tips for the Cologne Carnival (Köln Karneval Tipps) including what to wear and where to be for the parade

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Cologne travel guide

A great city in Roman times, and, in the Middle Ages, Germany’s largest, Köln (Cologne) is dominated by its glorious twin-­towered cathedral , one of the supreme achieve­ments of Gothic architecture.

Repeatedly bombed in World War II, Cologne preserved its historic street pattern when it was rebuilt and, although most buildings are modern, much of its traditional atmosphere survives. It’s a lively, humorous, rather disrespectful place, best experienced – for those with stamina – during the merrymaking of Karneval time.

Places to visit in Cologne

The glorious cologne cathedral (kölner dom).

www.koelner-dom.de

Although construction of Kölner Dom began in the 13th century, the building was only completed at the end of the 19th cen­tury, albeit in faithful adherence­ to the original medieval drawings which had somehow survived. The steeples rise to an astonishing 157m (515ft), and it takes more than 500 steps to reach the viewing platform on the south tower. The interior has a fabulous array of ecclesiastical treasures; they include the poignant 10th-­century Cross of Gero showing Christ at the moment of death, the ornate Shrine of the Three Magi, and an altar painting by Cologne’s greatest medieval painter, Stefan Lochner. 

Ludwig Museum - for music lovers

www.museum-ludwig.de

This mu­se­um is named after the well-known Ger­man art collector and chocolate factory owner Peter Lud­wig (1925–96), who be­queathed the city his col­lec­tion of 20th-century art. Among its treas­ures are works by Schwitters, Ernst, Dalí and Magritte, the Blauer Reiter group (Marc and Macke), the Brücke (Kirchner, Schmidt-Rottluff, Nolde), the Bauhaus (Klee, Schlemmer), paintings by Pi­cas­so and Braque and sculp­tures by Barlach and Kollwitz. Nouveau Rea­lisme and Pop Art are also rep­re­sent­ed (Warhol, Rauschenberg, Lich­tenstein).

Church of St Martin - a great example of romanesque architecture

Romanesque churches were built in abundance as a result of Cologne's prosperity in the Middle Ages. One of the best examples is the Church of St Martin. Dating from around 1170, the triple-naved ­columned ba­sil­i­ca with its beautiful tre­foil-formed choir was razed to the ground in the wartime ­bombing, but since being rebuilt in 1963 it has re­sumed its role as the outstanding land­mark of the Old City.

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•  Visiting western Germany? Try the former capital of West Germany, Bonn

• Planning a festive trip? Read all about the best Christmas markets in Germany

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Best Colognes for Travel Guide

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My Fave Cologne Up Front

My top picks at a glance, buy a travel size, check the tsa rules, bring the fragrance without packing the cologne.

• Consider the Region You're Visiting

Long-Lasting

Works well with body chemistry, available in a set, travel friendly, my favorite colognes for traveling, question: can i refill a travel-sized cologne bottle, question: can i pack cologne in a carry-on bag, question: what are the best ways to make cologne last.

Fragrances are one of my favorite accessories. In my opinion, it completes an outfit. Whether I’m going out on the town or casually running errands, I spritz on a fragrance. In this guide, I’ll be explaining the best colognes for traveling. I’ve taken a few trips with my significant other, and there are a handful of colognes that I really like to smell on him. But I also wear cologne myself sometimes. If the scent is more on the light/fruity side, I’ll give it a try. 

Needless to say, I’ve collected first-hand knowledge about traveling with cologne over the years. If you’re interested in learning about my favorite colognes for traveling, check out the guide below!

All in all, I really like Dior Sauvage. I love how fresh and clean it smells. When I go out with my significant other, this is the one that I like to smell on him the most. It’s not too overbearing, but it gets the job done! When it comes to cologne, I prefer alluring aromas more than anything. This one isn’t too strong, but it’s long-lasting. Plus, you can buy a travel-friendly version of it from Macy’s website . Dior Sauvage comes in multiple sizes, and the smallest is a 1 oz. spray.

Here’s a sneak peek at my top picks for this article and an explanation of why I love them so much:

• Tom Ford Oud Wood
• Dior Sauvage
• Creed Aventus
• Le Labo Santal 33
• Gypsy Water

My Advice for Traveling With Cologne

My suggestion for traveling with a cologne is to bring the travel-sized version of the fragrance. The last thing you’d want is to break or lose your favorite scent. Bringing the travel size ensures that you’ll still have your big bottle at home if anything happens. Not to mention, the travel version is much better for packing.

The TSA has strict regulations on what liquids you can bring in your carry-on bag. Make sure to check their website before packing your cologne. I can’t stress this enough! The last thing you want is to have to throw away your beloved scent at the airport.

Trust me, I’ve been with friends who didn’t double-check the size restrictions and had to throw away full bottles of lotion and fragrances. Being forced to toss your favorite cologne is not how you want to start your vacay. If you’re unsure, just put your fragrance in your checked luggage. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

You could forget it in the hotel, or it could break while in your luggage. Literally, anything could happen. To avoid that, I suggest spraying your clothes with cologne while packing. For instance, if you know you’ll be going to dinner on your first night, pack a nice shirt and spray it with cologne before you put it in your suitcase. This way, your clothes will already have the scent, and you won’t have to worry about bringing your cologne with you.

The best way to preserve the fragrance is to spray your outfit really well and then put it in a packing cube. It’ll hold the scent, and you’ll smell nice without bringing the actual bottle.

Consider the Region You’re Visiting

No matter where you go, some people will like your cologne, and others won’t. But if you’re traveling out of the country, take the customs of the country into consideration. Every country has a slightly different version of what they believe is a “pleasant” fragrance.

Just to be clear, I wouldn’t be too worried about this. Like I said, even if you’re in your home country, you may come across people who dislike your aroma. But if you know you’re going to a place that’s vastly different from your home country, take it easy when spraying your cologne. It’s okay to wear what you want but consider making it light, so the fragrance isn’t leaving a trail behind you.

My Selection Criteria for the Colognes Below

Although I don’t always wear cologne, I most certainly like to smell it on others. Below are the attributes that I looked for to select the fragrances highlighted in this article:

For me, long-lasting fragrances are a must! I don’t care if it’s just for a day at work or a night on the town. But if you’re taking a particular cologne on vacation, you definitely want it to last.

When vacationing, you spend long days out enjoying the sights. Therefore, you don’t want a cologne that will dissipate in a couple of hours. The fragrances on this list stay intact for an extended period of time. Of course, they don’t last through strenuous activities like hiking or swimming. But from my experience, they’ll definitely last through sightseeing.

I also chose the fragrances in this guide based on variety. I understand that everyone likes different aromas. Even I like different scents. Sometimes, I prefer for my significant other to have a strong smell, and other times, I prefer a fresh scent on him.

I guess it depends on where we’re going and what we’ll be doing. For example, I noticed that strong scents don’t smell good after a long day. Once it starts to mix with other aromas and sweat, the outcome is off-putting. Therefore, I prefer strong cologne for a night out rather than throughout the day. All of the fragrances that I chose are for varying activities and moods.

The fragrances that I mentioned below are all high-quality. Even though some of the brands are expensive, a little bit goes a long way. The quality of a fragrance goes back to my first attribute, which is a long-lasting aroma. If the cologne is cheap, it’ll likely dissipate quickly.

On the other hand, I’ve noticed that quality colognes last much longer. Not to mention, you don’t have to use much of it. Therefore, spending a bit more money on cologne is a good investment.

Of course, everyone’s body chemistry is different. But from my experience, these fragrances match pretty well with different chemistries. I noticed they worked for both of us when my significant other and I tried them. Testing out cologne before purchasing it is essential.

There have been many times when I’ve smelled a fragrance and loved it, only to hate it once I started to wear it. In my opinion, the cologne brands that I chose smell the same across the board.

Not every fragrance on this list comes in a set, but some do. I like to get the most out of my fragrances, and the best way to do that is by layering. If you’re anything like me, layering your fragrances is the way to go. It’ll ensure that you smell good for longer, and your aroma will greet others before you do. Whenever you shower with a fragrance, add lotion, then spritz on the cologne, you’ll smell divine!

All of the colognes that I chose for this list are travel friendly. You can find these fragrances in a smaller version of the original bottle, which is really helpful. I don’t recommend taking your full-sized bottle of cologne on vacation because the bottle could get damaged.

There’s nothing like setting off on a new adventure, and part of the fun is choosing the perfect cologne to take with you. In my opinion, it’s the fun part of packing! Whether you’re hitting the beach or exploring a new city, these are my options for the best colognes for travel:

1. Tom Ford Oud Wood

• Top Notes: Pepper, Rose-bay,  Cardamom seed
• Middle Notes: Oud, Sandalwood, Vetiver
• Base Notes: Tonka Bean, Amber,  Vanilla

This woody, oriental scent is perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your travels. It’s rich and exotic, with notes of oud, sandalwood, vetiver, and amber, making it perfect for evening wear. Every time I think of this cologne, I think of a chill, fun evening of grabbing drinks and having a conversation.

This particular cologne isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. However, I think it can be worn as a unisex fragrance. It’s a bit bold, but the underlying sweetness gives it a feminine aroma.

Also, this cologne is available in a set. You could get the Luxe set , which is fantastic for travel since it comes with other travel essentials, like shades and a Tom Ford card holder. But if you want something a bit simpler, Saks Fifth Avenue sells a 2-piece set that includes a smaller version of the cologne ideal for vacation.

Not to mention, Sephora sells a mini spray version of this fragrance. Therefore, you don’t have to carry your big bottle on the trip!

• Long-lasting fragrance
• Perfect for a night out
• Available in a set
• Too strong for some 

2. Creed Aventus

• Top Notes: Apple, Blackcurrant Leaves, Bergamot, and Pineapple
• Middle Notes: Patchouli, Birch, Pink Berries, and Jasmine
• Base Notes: Oakmoss, Musk, Vanilla, and Ambergris

This refreshing cologne is perfect for daytime wear. It has a fruity, slightly sweet scent with notes of blackcurrant, bergamot, pineapple, and oak moss. It’s the perfect cologne for exploring a new city or hiking through the mountains. It’s also great for making new friends and has a very inviting and pleasant smell. I like this one because it’s not overbearing.

If you want to get a travel size of this fragrance, you can buy the Creed La Olfactive set. It includes a 0.3 oz bottle of Aventus cologne.

• Ideal for refreshing your smell after a long day
• Unisex fragrance
• Available in travel size
• Too sweet for some

3. Le Labo Santal 33

• Top Notes: Violet accord and Cardamom
• Middle Notes: Ambrox and Iris
• Base Notes: Leather, Sandalwood, and Cedarwood

This cologne is perfect for those who want a more unique scent. It has a woody, smoky smell with hints of leather and spice. It’s ideal for evenings out or special occasions. I find that it works well in any setting, whether at a fancy dinner or grabbing drinks with friends.

Santal 33 comes in multiple sizes, and the smallest one is 15ml . If you don’t want to bring your large bottle of cologne on vacay, opt for the small one.

• Long-lasting
• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Strong fragrance

4. Dior Sauvage

• Top Notes: Calabrian bergamot and Pepper
• Middle Notes: Geranium, Elemi, Lavender, Sichuan Pepper, Pink Pepper, Vetiver, and Patchouli
• Base Notes: Cedar, Labdanum, and  Ambroxan

Dior Sauvage is a modern classic. It has a fresh, clean scent with bergamot, citrus, and pepper notes. It’s perfect for any occasion, day or night. I like to wear this cologne when I’m traveling because it makes me feel confident and stylish.

This fragrance isn’t technically a unisex scent, but I’ve mixed it with sweet perfumes and loved the outcome. I enjoy spritzing it on when I want to change up my scent. 

This one is really good for layering because it’s available in a gift set with a fragrance and shaving gel.

• Good for day wear
• Ideal for staying fresh while out and about
• It can be used as a unisex fragrance
• Fragrance doesn’t last through certain outdoor activities
• Peppery aroma might be offputting for some people

5. Byredo Gypsy Water

• Top Notes: Lemon, Bergamot, Juniper Berries, and Pepper
• Middle Notes: Pine Needle, Incense, and Orris
• Base Notes: Vanilla, Sandalwood, and Amber

This bohemian-inspired cologne is perfect for those who want to add a touch of mystery to their travels. It has a woody, earthy scent with bergamot, lemon, and pine notes. It’s a great fragrance for exploring new places and meeting new people. I find that it’s also perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. Shower, spritz it on, and enjoy the remainder of your night.

Nordstrom sells a travel-sized fragrance set that includes a 0.4 oz bottle of Gypsy Water.

• Perfect for day and night wear
• Strong scent for some

Answer: Absolutely! In fact, refilling it can save you money. Keep in mind that every bottle is different, but it should be pretty simple to refill. Untwist the atomizer, and set it out of the way. Securely hold the small bottle in your hand, and grab the large cologne bottle. Hold the nozzle of the large fragrance over the opening of the travel-sized vial. Spritz the cologne until the small bottle is filled.

Answer: TSA regulations permit you to bring a small bag of liquids in your carry-on bag. The bag can contain aerosols, which include fragrance sprays. The items are restricted to travel-sized bottles that are under 3.4 ounces each. All colognes must go in a single, clear plastic, zip-top bag that’s quart-sized.

Answer: There are a few things you can do to make your cologne last: • Spritz it on your pulse points: The heat from your body will help to diffuse the scent. • Layer it with other products: For example, if you use aftershave, apply that first, then follow with your cologne. • Avoid rubbing your wrists together after spraying the fragrance: Doing this will break down the molecules and make the scent fade faster. • Store it properly: Keep your cologne in a cool, dark place. Extreme temperatures can break down the fragrance molecules and impact the scent. • Spray it on your clothes: This can help make the scent last longer, as well as help distribute it more evenly.

Closing Thoughts On Colognes for Travel

Choosing the perfect cologne for travel is tough, but hopefully, my guide has helped you narrow down your options. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious, sophisticated scent or a refreshing daytime cologne, there’s something for everyone. 

I love smelling nice and like to be around people who smell nice. That’s why I prefer Dior Sauvage. In my opinion, it’s the ideal cologne for vacation. The fragrance is fresh and long-lasting but not too overbearing. I love it! Overall, any of the colognes listed above will keep you smelling amazing while on vacation. So, which one do you think you’ll try?

• Best Kohl’s Cologne Guide: Top Cologne Types

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Germany travel guide: Discover the rich culture of Deutschland

Explore germany for its rich culture, historic architecture and fairytale landscapes.

Germany is home to Europe's largest 3D-printed building

The Wave House, a new data center, is located in an urban area of Heidelberg.

Germany is one of the most visited countries in the world, attracting travelers from far and wide with its thousands of years of history, rich culture and picturesque landscapes.

More than 183 million tourists visited the European country in 2023, according to the Statista Research Department.

From the natural beauty of Bavaria to the urban streets of Berlin, Germany offers an abundance of experiences for every kind of traveler.

'MARCH BEER' ONCE LUBRICATED MUNICH'S FAMOUS FALL FEST, NOW FOUND YEAR-ROUND ONLY IN US

Oktoberfest is a globally popular event that first started in Germany.

Travel requirements

Prior to purchasing your flight, it’s important to know Germany's visa requirements, which differ depending on where you are traveling from.

Visitors from more than 60 countries – including the U.S. and Canada – need not apply for a tourist visa for trips less than 90 days.

To visit Germany for short trips, U.S. citizens only need a U.S. passport that is valid for more than three months beyond the date of their departure. However, visitors from many other countries – including South Africa and India – will need to apply for a tourist visa for short trips.

5,600,000 LITERS OF BEER WERE CONSUMED AT OKTOBERFEST IN 2022, BUT WHAT ABOUT 2023?

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is Germany’s most visited castle, with 1,300,000 people crossing its gate each year.

Located in the Alps in Bavaria, the castle overlooks the Hohenschwangau valley and is close to the popular tourist town of Fussen. Built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, this fairytale-esque castle has been referred to as the inspiration for the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

It is recommended to purchase tickets for a guided tour online in advance as they can sell out quickly.

Neuschwanstein Castle is Germany’s most visited castle, with 1,300,000 people crossing its gate each year. (Christof Stache/AFP via Getty Images)

Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall , which divided the city from 1961 until 1989, stands as a symbol of the Cold War era when Berlin was separated into eastern and western parts.

The East Side Gallery is the longest remaining section of the wall, and in 1990, more than 100 artists decorated this portion with art, making it today the longest open-air art gallery in the world, according to Visit Berlin.

GERMANY, ALLIES CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BERLIN WALL FALL

Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate, located in the heart of Berlin, is one of the best-known landmarks in Germany.

The historic site has become a symbol of Berlin’s division and, later, its reunification following the Cold War. Built between 1788 and 1791, the monument stands more than 80 feet tall and was inspired by parts of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, according to the Visit Berlin website.

Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral, located in Cologne, is one of the largest Gothic-style cathedrals in the world and attracts around 20,000 visitors every day, according to the Visit Cologne website.

The cathedral, which belongs to the Catholic Church and stands more than 500 feet tall, began construction in 1248 and took more than seven centuries to build.

When planning a visit, travelers should only bring small bags and be prepared for identity checks, according to the website for Cologne Cathedral.

A view of Cologne Cathedral in April 2023 in Cologne, Germany. (Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest, the largest Volksfest in the world, is held annually between September and October in Munich and usually lasts about 16–18 days.

Attracting more than 6 million visitors each year, the celebration features a beer festival with tents representing different breweries, a carnival, music, parades and more. It is a good idea to arrive early to the event as it draws large crowds, and remember to drink responsibly. Prost!

Europa-Park

For visitors looking for an adrenaline rush, family-owned Europa-Park is Germany’s largest theme park and attracts more than 5 million visitors every season. 

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Located in Rust, Baden-Württemberg, Europa-Park has something for everyone with 100 different attractions, 14 roller coasters, 17 European and three fantasy-themed areas, six hotels and more than 50 themed restaurants and bars.

Sophia Compton is a Digital Production Assistant at Fox News Digital. Sophia was previously a business reporter covering finance, energy and tourism and has experience as a TV news producer. She graduated with a journalism degree in 2021 from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

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More From Forbes

Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the most evocative floral fragrances.

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This Mother’s Day, forget about gifting a typical bouquet, and instead opt for one of these long-lasting floral fragrances. Ideal for travel lovers, each one is inspired by a far-away land and one spritz will bring back memories of beautiful destinations spent with loved ones.

Santa Maria Novella Acqua della Regina Eau de Cologne

Santa Maria Novella Acqua della Regina

Perfect for your own queen, this scent, the oldest from Italian heritage brand Santa Maria Novella , celebrates the perfume that Caterina de Medici commissioned the Dominican monks to create in 1533. Translating as ‘The Queen’s Water’, the fragrance is based on a bouquet she offered to the King of France upon their marriage. With notes of Italian citrus, lavender, neroli, rosemary and musk, the fragrance will transport her on an olfactory journey through the Tuscan countryside.

$100 for 50ml, us.smnovella.com

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Apple ipad pro 2024 release date latest news on when it will launch, paris 2024 olympics morocco miss out on historic qualification zambia qualifies, diem lunar bud eau de parfum.

Diem Lunar Bud.

Luna Bud, from artisan perfumery house Diem , harnesses the magical quality of night-blooming flowers. The intoxicating scent captures the sweet, heady notes of tuberose and jasmine petals, with a warm blackcurrant and the snap of green stems. It’s the perfect evening scent for any glamorous mum.

£40 for 30ml, diemscents.com

Recreation Beauty This Love of Mine Eau de Parfum

Recreation Beauty This Love of Mine

This lingering scent by Recreation Beauty uses sparkling white florals blended with fresh basil and violet. There are also notes of gardenia, jasmine and tuberose, which open to deeper sandalwood and musk. The fragrance is inspired by a gardenia and jasmine-filled piazza at sunset and is the closest thing to gifting a bouquet of flowers. The clean and ethical brand, Recreation Beauty, based in Sydney’s Bondi Beach, will soon launch in the US. Its fragrances pay homage to the natural world and draw olfactive inspiration from Australia’s landscape. Each one is housed in custom glass bottles with sustainable packaging designed to reflect the Bondi sunset.

£87 for 50ml, recreationbeauty.com

SSainte Velvet Bloom Eau de Parfum

SSaint Velvet Bloom.

Also set to launch in the US soon is SSainte , a niche perfumery brand that offers scents based on emotive responses to olfactory travel memories – whether that is the sensory journey through a traditional Asian market or being in the heart of the sun-stricken beauty of the Australian outback. Velvet Bloom is a nostalgic peach scent inspired by slow afternoons by gentle shores. Notes of iris, reminiscent of suede, are mixed with the wistful warmth of old cedar wood. The subtle bite of saffron juxtaposes a fresh hint of musk, reminiscent of blissful pockets of time gone by.

AUD$139 for 50ml, ssaint.com.au

Marc-Antoine Barrois Tilia Eau de Parfum

Marc-Antoine Barrois Tilia.

New from French haute designer, Marc-Antoine Barrois , in collaboration with leading perfumer Quentin Bisch, is Tilia, the brand’s first floral scent. Inspired by summer holidays in the French countryside, Tilia has notes of jasmine sambac, Linden tree honey and heliotrope. The result is a spritz that burst with blooms.

$160 for 30ml, neinamnmarcus.com

Thameen Chords Cologne Elixir

Thameen Chords.

Like music to her ears—and nose— Thameen ’s latest offering, Chords, is inspired by British-German composer George Handel’s residency in London. The green floral scent harnesses notes of orange blossom, ylang ylang and honey. The brand, under the ‘artistic residency’ of Christopher Chong has worked with master perfumer, Nathalie Lorson, to create this contemporary fragrance with a baroque feel, the fourth from the Britologne Collection.

$295 for 100ml, neimanmarcus.com

Officine Universelle Buly Eau Triple Peruvian Heliotrope

Officine Universelle Buly Eau Triple Peruvian Heliotrope.

Inspired by spring on the French Riviera, Eau Triple Peruvian Heliotrope is a beguiling perfume of white flowers, with soft and powdery notes. Created by the French historic brand Buly 1803, the fragrance blends sweet heliotrope with romantic violet, while woody notes and flashes of vanilla, sandalwood, Tonka beans and spices combine to round up the fragrance.

€150 for 75 ml, buly1803.com

Jo Malone London Yellow Hibiscus Cologne

Jo Malone London Yellow Hibiscus.

Celebrating the carefree lifestyle of Brazil, set against the backdrop of exotic beaches, Yellow Hibiscus by Jo Malone London captures the joyful spirit of the striking hibiscus flower soaked in sunshine. The fragrance is from the limited edition Blossoms collection and is the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Its dewy freshness of rose underpins what is a sparkling floral scent, with a slice of lime adding a burst of juiciness.

£86 for 50ml, jomalone.co.uk

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