Things To Do
in Cologne
Cologne, or Köln, sits on the Rhine in western Germany and blends Roman history with a vibrant modern culture. Its skyline is dominated by the Gothic Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece that draws visitors from around the world. The Old Town winds along the river with medieval lanes, lively breweries, and a thriving arts scene.
From riverfront walks to world class museums and Rhine side cafés, Cologne offers a welcoming mix of heritage and contemporary energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the bustling streets of Cologne's historic center, marveling at the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cologne Cathedral. After soaking in the views, enjoy a traditional German breakfast at a nearby café, complete with fresh bread, cheeses, and local meats. Don't forget to grab a coffee to fuel your exploration as you prepare to discover the city's rich history.
Visit the Roman-Germanic Museum to learn about the city's ancient past and see artifacts from the Roman era. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Rhine Promenade, soaking up the sun and enjoying the view of the river as boats glide by. As the afternoon progresses, stop by the colorful Alter Markt square to enjoy some local Kölsch beer at a traditional brewery.
Dine at a charming restaurant in the heart of the old town, where you can savor classic dishes such as Sauerbraten or Himmel un Ääd. Post-dinner, consider taking a guided night tour to see the illuminated Cathedral and explore the enchanting side streets of the Altstadt. End your evening with a nightcap at a rooftop bar overlooking the city skyline.
Begin your day with a visit to the Museum Ludwig, home to an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso and Warhol. Spend time admiring the contemporary pieces and exploring the museum's temporary exhibitions. Afterward, take a break at the museum café for a light snack and coffee.
Head to the Chocolate Museum to indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the history of chocolate production in Germany. Experience interactive exhibits, and if you're lucky, participate in a chocolate tasting session. Following your sugary adventure, take a stroll to the nearby Flora und Botanischer Garten, a beautiful botanical garden perfect for some serene exploration.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant specializing in local cuisine, allowing you to taste regional dishes paired with a fine Riesling. After dinner, catch a performance at the Cologne Philharmonic, renowned for its acoustics and architecture. If time permits, take a calm evening walk along the river, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚇One-way local transit ticket | $3-4 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range, per night) | $100-180 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and Gothic architecture including the Dom
- Vibrant riverfront with easy access to parks, museums, and beer culture
- Excellent train connectivity to other German cities and Europe
- High quality dining options with traditional and modern cuisine
- Can be crowded with tourists, especially in peak season
- Rain is common, so pack a lightweight rain layer
- Some areas center around expensive tourist traps
- Smaller neighborhoods may have fewer English signage outside central zones
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / you're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Dom?" - Where is the cathedral?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The check, please.
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
- "Prost!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Cologne
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Gothic exterior and dramatic interior; sunrise and evening light create stunning silhouettes and interior details.
Railway bridge lined with thousands of love locks; great for wide river shots and city skyline backdrops.
Historic square with half timbered houses and bustling cobbled streets perfect for street photography.
Long riverside walkway offering expansive river views, sailboats, and sunset scenes.
Colorful facades, independent shops, and cozy cafés provide intimate urban photography opportunities.
Food in Cologne
Cologne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish of applesauce (heaven) with mashed potatoes (earth) and black pudding, often served with fried onions.
Must-Try!
A rye bread slice topped with cheese and onions, typically enjoyed with a cold Kölsch on the side.
Crispy potato pancakes served with applesauce or herb sauce, a popular street food sane to markets and fairs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets near the city center offering regional snacks, sausages, pretzels, and seasonal treats.
Casual spots along the river offering quick bites including German sausages, pretzels, and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a polite Sie form with strangers; a handshake is common when meeting. In social circles, Germans often prefer clear punctuality and direct communication.
Keep voices respectful in public spaces; tipping and dining etiquette follow local norms; avoid loud behavior in quiet areas.
When in Kölsch bars, say Prost to toast; waitress or waiter may serve rounds until you say stop.
Safety
Tipping in Cologne
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany a small tip is customary in restaurants and bars, typically 5-10 percent if service is good; you can round up the bill. Cash tips are common even when paying by card.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments; cash remains common in smaller venues and markets; contactless payments are prevalent.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather with blossoming trees; showers are common, so carry a light rain layer and a compact umbrella.
Warm days often followed by cooling evenings; outdoor festivals along the Rhine are common. Stay hydrated and expect crowds in central areas.
Pleasant days with colorful foliage; rainfall can increase. Great for museum days and city walks.
Cold with a fair amount of rain or snow possibilities; festive Christmas markets light up the city center.
Cologne at Night
Hiking in Cologne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive from Cologne, offering wooded trails and panoramic river views.
A bit farther away but ideal for longer day trips with forest trails and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Cologne by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway for Cologne, located about 15-20 minutes by rail to the city center.
Larger international hub about an hour by rail or car from central Cologne.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population and a growing community of young professionals, especially around the university areas and the Belgian Quarter.
Historic neighborhoods with family oriented activities and frequent cultural events.
A cosmopolitan city with English friendly services and a mix of languages in central districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
1. FC Köln is the local top club with a passionate fan base and matches at the RheinEnergieStadion.
Popular outdoor activities with scenic routes and clubs along the river.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cologne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cologne offers plenty of meat free options in larger restaurants and many bakeries. Look for Kartoffelgerichte (potato based), seasonal salads, dumplings, and veggie versions of classic dishes. Many places are able to tailor dishes if asked.