Cologne, Germany

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cologne, Germany

Cologne, a vibrant city located on the Rhine River in western Germany, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment. With its rich Roman heritage, stunning architecture, and lively Carnival celebrations, Cologne is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat and stay, things to know before you go, transportation options, tips, and other interesting facts about this incredible city.

Places to Visit

1. Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

  • Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln
  • A majestic Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and the shrine of the Three Kings.

2. Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum)

  • Address: Roncalliplatz 4, 50667 Köln
  • Explore the history of the Roman Empire in Germany at this world-renowned museum, showcasing artifacts like mosaics, jewelry, and sculptures.

3. Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke)

  • Address: Hohenzollernbrücke, 50667 Köln
  • This iconic bridge is adorned with thousands of love locks and offers breathtaking views of the Rhine River and Cologne Cathedral.

4. Great St. Martin Church (Groß St. Martin)

  • Address: An St. Martin 29, 50667 Köln
  • A beautiful Romanesque church with a striking green dome, featuring an impressive interior with ornate decorations and intricate stone carvings.

5. Museum Ludwig

  • Address: Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Köln
  • Discover an extensive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein, at this renowned museum.

6. Cologne Philharmonic (Kölner Philharmonie)

  • Address: Bischofsgartenstraße 1, 50667 Köln
  • Catch a performance by the Gürzenich Orchestra or other international ensembles at this stunning concert hall.

7. Eau de Cologne (4711)

  • Address: Glockengasse 4, 50667 Köln
  • Visit the original store of the famous fragrance, which has been produced since 1709, and learn about its history.

8. NS Documentation Center (NS-Dokumentationszentrum)

  • Address: Appellhofplatz 23-25, 50667 Köln
  • Explore the history of National Socialism in Cologne at this museum, featuring exhibits on the rise and fall of the Nazi regime.

9. Rheinauhafen

  • Address: Am Rheinauhafen 1, 50678 Köln
  • Stroll along the Rhine River promenade, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, offering beautiful views of the city skyline.

10. Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten)

  • Address: Ölhafenstraße 1-3, 50679 Köln
  • Escape to this peaceful oasis, featuring over 10,000 plant species, a tranquil pond, and a picturesque glasshouse.

Activities

1. Take a Rhine River Cruise

  • Departure points: Various locations along the Rhine River promenade
  • Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Rhine River, offering stunning views of Cologne’s skyline and surrounding landscape.

2. Explore the Carnival Museum (Fastnachtsmuseum)

  • Address: Weidengasse 14-16, 50668 Köln
  • Learn about the history and traditions of Cologne’s famous Carnival celebrations at this interactive museum.

3. Visit a Brewery

  • Various locations throughout the city
  • Cologne is famous for its local beer, Kölsch. Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the best brews in town.

4. Go Shopping

  • Various shopping districts throughout the city
  • From high-end boutiques to vintage shops and markets, Cologne offers a diverse range of shopping experiences.

5. Attend a Sports Event

  • Various stadiums and arenas throughout the city
  • Catch a match by 1. FC Köln (football) or the Cologne Crocodiles (American football) for an exhilarating sports experience.

6. Take a Bike Tour

  • Departure points: Various locations throughout the city
  • Explore Cologne’s scenic bike paths and discover hidden gems on a guided tour.

7. Relax at a Spa

  • Various spas and wellness centers throughout the city
  • Unwind with a rejuvenating massage, sauna session, or other spa treatments at one of Cologne’s many wellness oases.

Where to Eat

1. Früh am Dom

  • Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln
  • Savor traditional German cuisine and local beers in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the cathedral.

2. Götterspeise

  • Address: Glockengasse 14, 50667 Köln
  • Indulge in modern German dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients at this cozy restaurant.

3. Bäckerei Kamps

  • Address: Various locations throughout the city
  • Try traditional Cologne pastries and breads at this beloved bakery chain.

4. Haxenhaus

  • Address: An St. Martin 28, 50667 Köln
  • Enjoy classic German comfort food, including sausages and schnitzel, in a rustic atmosphere.

5. Monsieur Vuong

  • Address: Mittelstraße 22, 50672 Köln
  • Treat yourself to delicious Vietnamese cuisine with a French twist at this trendy restaurant.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel im Wasserturm

  • Address: Kaygasse 2, 50676 Köln
  • Unwind in luxurious rooms and suites within a historic water tower, offering stunning city views.

2. Excelsior Hotel Ernst

  • Address: Domkloster 4a, 50667 Köln
  • Experience elegant accommodations and exceptional service at this prestigious hotel opposite the cathedral.

3. Hotel Lyskirchen

  • Address: Lyskircher Str. 5, 50676 Köln
  • Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, offering cozy rooms and suites with garden views.

4. Hostel Cologne

  • Address: An den Dominikanern 20, 50668 Köln
  • Enjoy budget-friendly accommodations and a lively atmosphere at this centrally located hostel.

Things to Know

1. Language

  • German is the official language, but many locals speak English fluently.
  • Learn basic German phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Auf Wiedersehen” (goodbye).

2. Currency

  • The Euro is the local currency.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred at smaller shops and cafes.

3. Weather

  • Cologne experiences a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers.
  • Pack layers for unpredictable weather and comfortable shoes for exploring.

4. Safety

  • Cologne is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your drinks at bars.

Transportation

1. Airport

  • Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is located approximately 15 km southeast of the city center.
  • Take a taxi, bus, or train to reach the city center.

2. Public Transportation

  • The KVB (Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe) operates an extensive network of buses, trams, and trains.
  • Buy tickets at machines or kiosks before boarding.

3. Bike Rentals

  • Various bike rental stations throughout the city
  • Explore Cologne’s scenic bike paths with a rented bike.

4. Taxi

  • Taxis are readily available, but can be expensive.
  • Book in advance to ensure availability.

Tips

1. Learn about Carnival

  • Cologne’s Carnival celebrations are an integral part of the city’s culture.
  • Attend a parade or party to experience the festive atmosphere.

2. Try Kölsch Beer

  • This local beer is brewed according to traditional methods and served in small glasses.
  • Visit a brewery or try it at a restaurant or bar.

3. Explore Beyond the City Center

  • Cologne has many charming neighborhoods and surrounding towns worth exploring.
  • Take a day trip to nearby Bonn, Düsseldorf, or the Eifel region.

4. Be Prepared for Crowds

  • Cologne is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak season (June to August).
  • Plan ahead and book accommodations, restaurants, and attractions in advance.

Other Interesting Facts

1. Roman History

  • Cologne was an important Roman settlement, founded in 50 AD.
  • Explore the city’s rich Roman heritage at museums, landmarks, and archaeological sites.

2. Carnival Traditions

  • Cologne’s Carnival celebrations have a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages.
  • Learn about the various characters, costumes, and traditions surrounding this festive season.

3. Local Cuisine

  • Traditional Cologne dishes include Himmel und Erde (mashed potatoes with apple sauce and onions), Mettbrötchen (raw minced pork on bread), and Reibekuchen (potato pancakes).
  • Try these local specialties at restaurants, markets, or food stalls.

4. Cultural Events

  • Cologne hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Cologne Carnival, Cologne Pride, and the Lit.Cologne literary festival.
  • Check the city’s event calendar to catch a performance, exhibition, or festival during your visit.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Cologne, Germany!