Things To Do
in Cologne
Nestled along the Rhine River, this vibrant German city is famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that took more than 600 years to complete. Cologne is also renowned for its lively cultural scene, which includes numerous museums, galleries, and the annual carnival celebrations that attract visitors from around the globe.
Additionally, it has a rich history in the production of Eau de Cologne, a type of perfume that has been manufactured here since the 18th century, contributing to its reputation as a city of art, history, and fragrance.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café. Visit the iconic Cologne Cathedral and take in its stunning Gothic architecture.
Explore the impressive Museum Ludwig, home to a fantastic collection of modern art. Stroll along the Rhine River and enjoy the picturesque views.
Dine at a traditional German restaurant, savoring local dishes and Kölsch beer. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the charming Old Town.
Visit the Cologne Chocolate Museum for a sweet start to your day. Learn about the history of chocolate and enjoy samples.
Head to the Roman-Germanic Museum to explore Cologne's ancient past. Discover fascinating artifacts and exhibitions.
Enjoy a river cruise on the Rhine, taking in the city's skyline. Afterward, find a cozy bar for drinks and live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous museums and galleries.
- Vibrant arts scene and lively carnival celebrations.
- Excellent public transportation system.
- A diverse culinary scene with local and international options.
- Strong economy with various job opportunities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other German cities.
- Traffic congestion and parking can be challenging.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates.
- Bureaucratic processes can be slow and complicated.
Best Activities in Cologne
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A large park along the Rhine River with plenty of space for walking, cycling, and picnicking.
Offers a unique perspective of the city and the Rhine River while providing an exciting outdoor experience.
Explore the city and its surroundings by joining a guided bike tour, which is a popular way to enjoy the outdoors in Cologne.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cologne with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cologne
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most recognized landmarks in Germany, offering stunning views of the city from its towers.
Famous for its love locks, this bridge provides a picturesque backdrop of the cathedral and the Rhine River.
A scenic promenade along the Rhine River with panoramic views and excellent photo spots.
A 103-meter high building with an observation deck offering breathtaking vistas of Cologne and the surrounding area.
Food in Cologne
Cologne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic local dish made from mashed potatoes, apple sauce, and blood pudding, available at Brauhaus Sion.
Must-Try!
Slow-marinated and roasted beef served with red cabbage and dumplings, can be savored at Brauhaus Früh am Dom.
A rye bread roll with Gouda cheese, mustard, and onions, a popular snack found at Friesenstube.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cologne better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant event featuring a wide array of international street food held at various locations throughout the year.
One of the oldest markets in Cologne, offering a variety of local street food like bratwurst, crepes, and roasted nuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cologne, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Address people with their titles and last names, especially in formal settings.
Germans, including those in Cologne, value personal space. It's important to respect individual space and avoid standing too close when engaging in conversation.
Punctuality is highly regarded in German culture. It is respectful to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, or social gatherings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cologne with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cologne
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cologne, Germany, it is common to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if the service was good. Tipping is also appreciated in bars, cafes, and for taxi services.
Payment in Cologne, Germany is mainly done using cash, but credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments. Contactless payment is becoming increasingly popular, and it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cologne.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Cologne as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and outdoor events.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Cologne with warm weather and an abundance of cultural festivals, outdoor activities, and lively atmosphere.
Fall in Cologne offers pleasant weather, beautiful autumn foliage, and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore the city's attractions at a more relaxed pace.
Winter is a magical time to visit Cologne with its charming Christmas markets, festive decorations, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying seasonal treats and holiday shopping.
Cologne at Night
Hiking in Cologne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast park featuring diverse landscapes, hiking trails, and rich wildlife. Ideal for both long hikes and short nature walks.
Known for its rolling hills and dense forests, the Sauerland region offers a variety of hiking routes, including panoramic views.
A picturesque region with numerous hiking trails through scenic forests, valleys, and charming villages.
Located near Bonn, this mountain range features hiking paths with stunning views along the Rhine River.
Offers diverse trails that meander through valleys, forests, and historical sites, suitable for all hiking levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cologne through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cologne by plane.
The main international airport serving the city of Cologne and Bonn, located approximately 15 km southeast of Cologne.
Located about 40 km northwest of Cologne, Düsseldorf Airport is one of the largest airports in Germany and serves as a major international gateway.
Approximately 150 km south of Cologne, Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe and serves as a major international hub.
Located about 75 km northeast of Cologne, Dortmund Airport offers several international flights and serves the surrounding region.
Situated around 120 km northwest of Cologne, this airport serves the Westphalia region and offers various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Cologne, comprising citizens who are of German descent.
One of the largest immigrant groups in Cologne, primarily consisting of individuals of Turkish descent.
A significant demographic group in Cologne, mainly consisting of Kurdish immigrants and their descendants.
A well-established immigrant group in Cologne, with a long history dating back to the post-war period.
An active demographic group in Cologne, consisting of immigrants from Poland and their families.
Comprising individuals from various Arab countries, this group has been growing in recent years.
A longstanding community in Cologne, with roots that date back to the 1960s.
Includes immigrants from countries like Vietnam and Thailand, contributing to Cologne's multicultural landscape.
A diverse group representing various African nations, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Cologne
Discover the essence of Cologne through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Cologne, with the local club 1. FC Köln being a prominent team in the Bundesliga.
Handball enjoys a strong following in Cologne, with the Rhein-Neckar Löwen being one of the successful teams in the German league.
Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base in Cologne, with the Kölner Haie as the city's representative team in the DEL (Deutsche Eishockey Liga).
Basketball is also popular in Cologne, with local clubs participating in various leagues, and the city hosting several basketball events.
Rugby has been growing in popularity, with clubs like Kölner Rugby Club helping to promote the sport in the region.
Athletics is widely practiced, with many clubs in Cologne offering training and competitions for various track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cologne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Cologne offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from traditional German cuisine to international fare. Notable venues include Die Olive and Sattgrün.
Cologne's dining scene caters well to gluten-free diners, with several establishments offering dedicated menus or accommodating special requests. Places like Café Buur, Lina's Coffee, and Coellner provide gluten-free options for various meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cologne with these cultural adventures.
