8 Things to Do in Cologne You Won’t Want to Miss Out On

Cologne, Germany, or as the Germans call it, Köln, is an incredible city that’s well known for its positivity and joyous spirit — despite the gothic architecture reminiscent of medieval times. Whether you’re taking a short break between destinations or looking to stay a while, there are tons of excellent things to do in Cologne that’ll leave you feeling fully satisfied with your visit.

From visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Cologne Cathedral to enjoying the city’s kölsch beer gardens to the Cologne Chocolate Museum and botanical garden, you’ll realize that just one visit probably isn’t enough.

Below, we’ll list all the fun and cool things to do in Cologne, Germany, so you can maximize your itinerary and get the most out of your stay!

1. Visit the Famous Cologne Cathedral

The iconic Cologne Cathedral is a majestic and world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site that is visited by roughly six million people every year. With its towering spires, intricate stone carvings, and stained glass windows, the Cologne Cathedral is the city’s embodiment of the gothic architecture spurred on during the Middle Ages.

Visiting this architectural wonder is one the first things to do in Cologne for most visitors, and they come to do the following:

Marvel at the Stained Glass Windows

The cathedral’s stained glass windows are stunning and captivating. The oldest windows are set in the axial of the chapel. These windows depict medieval tributes to the Three Kings and are commonly referred to as the original Bible windows. They were among the first Bible windows to be preserved in all of Germany.

The windows are also often thought of as modern pop art masterpieces, as they consist of 11,500 glass pieces in at least 72 different colors. Several artists were involved in restoring them, including Barbara Schock-Werner, the cathedral’s architect, and Günter Hettinger, the cathedral workshop’s stained glass restorer. This restoration is one of the most significant in German history, as the cathedral took 600 years to restore and was bombed 14 times during the Second World War.

Climb the Tower

The Cologne Cathedral Tower is open year-round, and you can climb it day or night, sunrise or sunset, for incredible panoramic views of the city. Of course, you’ll want to plan this part of the cathedral visit accordingly, as it is a very long and narrow walk to the top!

You can also arrange a guided tour of the belfry with the cathedral’s staff. Just be sure to contact them a few days before your visit so you can hear the bells ringing. (And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes!)

Guided Tours

While you can enter and enjoy the Cologne Cathedral alone, it’s always a good idea to schedule a guided tour. DOMFORUM organizes the cathedral tours, which take place in small groups to ensure you get the most out of them. Each tour lasts about two hours and explores the cathedral’s history and architectural marvels.

Tour prices are also very fair, costing €10 for adults and €8 for children and students (with a student ID). Be sure to book your Cologne Cathedral tour ahead of time and leave some time for a short tram ride to the Cologne Botanical Garden.

2. Explore the Old Town Charm of Altstadt

When you’re done staring in awe at the grandeur of the Cologne Cathedral, one of the next best things to do in Cologne is to explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, Altstadt. Altstadt is a picturesque area of the city filled with historic landmarks, quaint houses, and much more!

To begin your adventure through the Old Town, start at Heumarkt Square. From there, continue on to Fish Market Square and end at the Gross St. Martin Church.

Here’s what you’ll encounter on your adventure:

Heumarkt Square

Heumarket Square is the heart of the Old Town. It’s a vibrant area bursting with history. During the 17th century, It was considered the most beautiful in Central Europe. Today, its streets are lined with breweries, cafes, and charming, steep, gabled houses — and still just as beautiful as ever.

Heumarkt Square is also the hub of activities in Old Town, hosting all kinds of seasonal events. The most common events you’ll encounter here include:

  • The Cologne Carnival Season opening celebrations
  • Concerts
  • Festivals
  • Sporting events
  • Theatre performances

Once you’ve explored the Cologne City Centre, be sure to pass by the historic Cologne City Hall on your way to Fish Market Square.

Fish Market Square

Fish Market Square is aptly named because it was once a bustling fish market. Today, it’s a popular part of town for locals and tourists alike, offering plenty of tourist attractions, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Fish Market Square has a unique, old-time charm. It’s also home to the Alter Markt, otherwise known as the Old Market Square, which hosts a photo-worthy fountain created to honor the market’s women who once sold fish there for a living.

One of the best things to do in this old yet modern city section is relax with a refreshing beer or hot cup of coffee and enjoy the view of the River Rhine. The River Rhine is where the city’s past and present come together in a way that’ll make you want to stay for a second cold beer. Or another cup of coffee.

Gross St. Martin Church

The Gross St. Martin Church is one of the twelve Romanesque churches throughout the city and has become a prominent feature of the Cologne skyline. The Romanesque Catholic church has been part of the Cologne Old Town area since the Middle Ages. It offers visitors an exciting glimpse into the city’s rich architectural heritage, and it’s just a stone’s throw away from city hall.

As you admire the church’s distinct architectural style, you’ll be transported back in time, soaking in the charm of its Medieval city gates and history. It’ll also make you realize why Cologne is often referred to as a cathedral city.

3. Art and Culture: Museums in Cologne

There’s more to Cologne than visiting the cathedral and Romanesque churches. The city is full of vibrant art and culture. For example, the Ludwig Museum is just a short walk from city hall. The Romisch-Germanisches Museum and Wallraf Richartz Museum are also full of ancient artifacts, World War II history, and even Roman ruins.

Museum Ludwig

The Museum Ludwig is a modern art lover’s paradise. Founded in 1976, following a generous donation of 350 modern pieces by Peter and Irene Ludwig, the museum now boasts a diverse collection of works by world-famous artists, including Paul Klee, Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and many more.

The museum’s varied collection of modern works never fails to inspire and fascinate, regardless of whether you’re an art buff or know nothing about modern works or early impressionists.

Romisch-Germanisches Museum

If you’re interested in ancient history, the Romisch-Germanisches Museum is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find a vast collection of artifacts from Cologne’s ancient Roman town villa and the first hints of a Romanesque church, gaining an unexpected and fascinating insight into the city’s history.

As you move through the exhibits, you’ll step back in time to when Cologne was a bustling Roman city.

NS Documentation Centre

The NS Documentation Centre offers a somber but interesting reminder of Cologne’s dark past during WWII. This centre is Germany’s largest regional memorial site that’s dedicated to the victims of the Nazi regime.

There are lots of exhibits that demonstrate a history of atrocities committed during one of the worst periods in world history and Germany’s history.

4. Experience Germany Cologne Fragrances

This city is the reason men’s perfume is called Cologne. While visiting, you won’t want to miss the iconic fragrance museums dedicated to the city’s history of scents.

Following your historical and art excursions, be sure to delve into the city’s famous original Eau de Cologne through its two famous museums:

Farina Fragrance Museum

The Farina Fragrance Museum offers a unique olfactory touring experience through the history of Cologne’s most famous scent. Established in 1709 by John Maria Farina, the museum houses an impressive collection of fragrances and historical artifacts that trace the origins of Eau de Cologne for more than three centuries.

Your tour guide will teach you all about the intricate perfume-making process, and you’ll get every opportunity to sniff various perfumery ingredients and learn about perfume production.

4711 Cologne House Store and Museum

You’ll also want to visit the 4711 Cologne House Store and Museum, which offers an additional perspective on Cologne’s fragrance industry. The Cologne House Store and Museum were founded over 225 years ago and have undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Cologne’s perfume history.

You’ll learn all about this history through a variety of interactive exhibits and a unique fragrance fountain, which immerses visitors in the world of scent.

5. Explore the Rhine River

The Rhine River (or the River Rhine) is where you’ll want to take the time to recharge after a long day of walking and adventuring. There are a lot of ways to enjoy the river, including taking a scenic river cruise, pledging your love with a lock at the Hohenzollern Bridge, or hopping on a Cologne Cable Car for a bird’s eye view of the city’s vistas.

River Cruise

Taking a river cruise provides panoramic views of the city skyline, the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, and the charming Cologne old town.

With a range of cruises available, from one-hour-long city tours to extended trips, there’s something to suit all schedules and interests. While you’ll have plenty of options when booking a river cruise on the Rhine River, you’ll want to be wary of themes — like golf or wine cruises. Typically, if there’s a theme involved, the cruises will be significantly more costly per person, so choose the touring company wisely.

Hohenzollern Bridge Love Locks

If you’re visiting Cologne with your significant other, you’ll want to make a stop at the Hohenzollern Bridge, where thousands of love locks adorn the railings. This romantic tradition began in 2009 and has since become a very popular tourist attraction—similar to the Pont des Arts in Paris.

There are so many different locks set in place along the bridge fence it’ll be hard not to stop and appreciate all the love and romance in the air.

Cologne Cable Car

If you aren’t afraid of heights, you’ll want to hop on the Cologne Cable Car for more stunning views of the city. The cable car will give you awe-inspiring views of the city from above. It’s a thrilling way to view the city, as you’ll see lots of landmarks on the way up, with the Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine River being the first of many.

6. Culinary Delights: Food and Drink in Cologne

There’s no doubt that exploring Cologne is going to work up an appetite. Fortunately, there’s an endless amount of culinary experiences to be had throughout the city. Some of the culinary highlights include sampling local Kölsch beer at traditional Brauhauses, trying authentic German dishes like sauerbraten and schnitzel, and satisfying your sweet tooth at the Cologne Chocolate Museum.

Drinking Kölsch at a Traditional German Brauhaus

You cannot leave Cologne without trying the local Kölsch beer!

Kölsch beer dates back to the late 1800s and is only brewed in Cologne. By design, Kölsch is meant to taste light and refreshing. That’s why you’ll only be served the beer in small glasses to ensure it stays fresh and cold while you sip and enjoy.

For the best tasting experience, visit one of Cologne’s many traditional Brauhauses or beer halls. Some of the most popular Kölsch Brauhauses are Peter’s and Mühlen. If you’re looking to pair your Kölsch beer with delicious German food, Päffgen is the best choice.

Dining on Traditional German Dishes

Cologne has a lot to offer for food lovers. From Rievkooche (a savory potato pancake) to Halve Hahn(Dutch cheese on a fresh rye roll), there’s an entire universe of traditional German dishes to try.

Some of the most popular spots are Bei Oma Kleinmann and Max Stark if you’re looking to try Rievkooche, Halve Hahn, or even Schewinshaze Pig Knuckle (savory pork roast). If you’re looking for fast food as you walk and talk, you’ll come across plenty of currywurst stands as well.

Currywurst is an iconic German street food that consists of steamed, fried sausage cut into bite-sized pieces and doused in curried ketchup. It’s usually accompanied by fries, and it makes for an excellent snack!

The Cologne Chocolate Museum and Café

For dessert, head straight to the Chocolate Museum. Here, you’ll learn about chocolate’s history and observe its production. Toward the end of your chocolate tour, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum café. There’s even a chocolate bar!

Brace yourself. There will be a huge variety of chocolate museum confections to indulge in. So, choose wisely and be sure to buy some sweets to take home!

7. Indulge in Some Retail Therapy

Cologne has a dynamic and very satisfying shopping scene. From the busy Schildergasse shopping street to the trendy Belgian Quarter and the modern Köln Arcaden shopping mall, you may want to consider coming with a half-empty suitcase!

Schildergasse

Schildergasse is one of Germany’s most visited shopping streets. It’s a shopper’s paradise bursting with all kinds of stores, including major department stores like H&M and Zara and many department and designer shoe stores.

Whether you’re hunting for the latest trends or distinctive keepsakes for loved ones, Schildergasse provides an unmatched shopping experience.

Belgian Quarter

For a more unique shopping experience, head to the Belgian Quarter. This trendy district is known for its diverse mix of boutiques, vintage clothing stores, and art galleries.

You’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces here, and that’s in addition to designer clothing and accessories you won’t find elsewhere.

Köln Arcaden

The Köln Arcaden offers a modern shopping mall experience in a spacious and comfortable setting. It’s home to more than 100 shops offering clothing, shoes, electronics, food, and much more. If shopping is your primary activity while visiting Cologne, the shopping mall is the perfect place to spend the afternoon.

8. Explore City Parks and Gardens

After a long day of sightseeing, shopping, drinking, and eating, you’ll want to find a nice place to rest. Fortunately, Cologne has plenty of picturesque parks and a botanical garden. These parks and gardens offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and if you stop by at the right time, you may even get to experience some exciting street art.

Botanical Gardens Flora

Located near the city center is the Botanical Gardens Flora — a tranquil and perfectly landscaped garden with over 12,000 species of plants. This includes a diverse collection of orchids and a very zen bonsai garden.

Rheinpark

Nestled along the banks of the Rhine River, Rheinpark offers a variety of relaxing and recreational activities. People come here to take leisurely walks, enjoy picnics along the river, go paddle boating, and more.

There are even play areas designed for young children, conveniently located next to green spaces where parents can sit and relax.

Volksgarten Park

Volksgarten Park offers another tranquil escape. This peaceful park offers a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. As you roam the park, you’ll encounter a charming pond, a rose garden, and various interesting sculptures.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic picnic, a leisurely stroll, or even a quick nap, Volksgarten Park provides the perfect cover and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I spend my day in Cologne?

You can start your day by visiting the Köln Cathedral and then take a break for Kaffe & Kuchen. Explore Cologne’s Old Town and have a local dish like Currywurst for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Hohenzollern Bridge and the Köln Triangle for great views, and end the day at a Brauhaus. Enjoy your day in Cologne!

Is Cologne worth visiting?

Yes, visiting Cologne is definitely worth it for its rich history, stunning architecture, cultural attractions, lively nightlife, and friendly locals.

Are two days enough in Cologne?

Yes, two days is enough time to explore Cologne. During your visit, you can hit the highlights, take a river cruise, and taste traditional German beers.

Can you tell me more about the Kölsch beer and the traditional Brauhaus experience in Cologne?

Absolutely! Kölsch beer is a light and refreshing beer style that originated in Cologne in the late 1800s. It is traditionally served in small glasses at the city’s Brauhauses. These establishments offer a cultural experience where you can savor freshly brewed Kölsch and enjoy hearty German cuisine.

What can I expect to see during a river cruise on the Rhine in Cologne?

During a river cruise on the Rhine in Cologne, you can expect to see panoramic views of the city skyline, including the Cologne Cathedral and the charming old town. It’s a unique and scenic way to experience the city.

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