Founded by the Romans, Cologne (German: Köln), vibrant and historic, is one of Germany’s oldest cities, enriched with more than 2,000 years of history. Situated on the banks of the Rhine River, it is the fourth-largest city in Germany , a great city to lose yourself in museums, admire the architecture and enjoy a beer by the river (Rhein). It is actually the city with most pubs percapita in Germany.
There are numerous attractions and activities to keep you engaged and entertained. Here are some of the top things to do in Cologne:
Known as Kölner Dom in German, the Cologne Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece, an imposing Gothic cathedral that dominates the city skyline and attracts millions of visitors each year. A UNESCO site, this giant Gothic cathedral (which was under construction for over 500 years) is perhaps Germany’s most famous cathedral and a symbol of Cologne’s skyline. It is the single most visited landmark in Germany and its 19th-century towers are still the second-tallest structures in the city.
Stained glass windows from the 1500s, a black marble high altar from the 1300s and a triple sarcophagus decorated with 12th-century reliefs of episodes from the life of Christ are just some of the invaluable pieces of art you can find inside. Kolner Dom is a must if you are visiting Cologne.
Ludwig Museum
Exhibiting art from after 1900, the Ludwig Museum showcases a diverse collection that includes everything from Dali to Warhol to one of the world’s largest Picasso collections. Named after its founders, Peter and Irene Ludwig, the museum houses an impressive collection of artworks spanning various artistic movements and genres.
It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., every first Thursday of the month until 10 p.m
Cologne’s Old Town
Located directly along the Rhine, the Old Town, or Altstadt, is a captivating neighborhood that transports visitors back in time with its charming medieval streets and historic architecture. With its cobble-stoned narrow alleys and traditional old houses, is the best place to enjoy a regional beer (Kölsch). Filled with innumerable breweries, pubs and restaurants, the Old Town still has its distinctive historical charm.
The Rhine panorama of the Old Town with the Cathedral, the Great St. Martin church and the historical Town Hall has become world-famous over the years. Whether you’re strolling along the streets, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Old Town offers an enchanting glimpse into Cologne’s rich heritage and a memorable experience for all who explore its timeless beauty.
Romisch-Germanisches Museum
The Römisch-Germanisches Museum is a captivating museum dedicated to showcasing the ancient Roman history and culture of the city. Situated near the Cologne Cathedral, this archaeological museum takes visitors on a journey back in time to the Roman era when Cologne, known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, was a thriving Roman settlement.
During the war, a bomb shelter was being built next to the cathedral when a Roman villa was uncovered. It was fully excavated later and decided to create a museum instead of moving its centerpiece, the Dionysus mosaic. The museum also shows off all of the artefacts found around Cologne from the time it was the capital of the Germania Inferior province. The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts and exhibits, including intricate Roman mosaics, impressive sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and everyday objects that provide insight into the daily lives of the ancient Romans.
Botanical Garden
Designed by Peter Joseph, the Flora Botanical Garden is by far the most beautiful park in Cologne. Located in the heart of the city’s university campus, the garden spans across 11 hectares, showcasing a diverse range of plants from around the world. Strolling through its meticulously designed pathways, visitors can explore themed gardens, such as the Mediterranean Garden, Japanese Garden, and Alpine Garden, each displaying a unique collection of flora.
Chocolate Museum
Situated on the banks of the Rhine River and operated in collaboration with the Lindt & Sprüngli chocolate brand, the Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum offers a captivating journey through the fascinating world of chocolate. As you step inside, you are greeted by the rich scent of cocoa and a variety of interactive exhibits that detail the history, production, and cultural significance of chocolate. From the origins of cocoa in the rainforests to the modern-day chocolate-making process, visitors can learn about every step involved in creating this beloved treat.
Visitors walk through 5,000 years of history (with cacao trees in a glass cube included) while experiencing how chocolate products are crafted in both mechanised and manual processes before your eyes. Try the three-metre-high melting chocolate fountain!
Hohenzollern Bridge
Constructed between 1907 and 1911, The Hohenzollern Bridge, spanning across the Rhine River in Cologne, is an iconic and historic landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The Hohenzollern Bridge, spanning across the Rhine River in Cologne, is an iconic and historic landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
What sets the Hohenzollern Bridge apart is its unique feature—the countless love locks that adorn its railings. Couples from around the world have affixed these padlocks to the bridge as a symbol of their enduring love and commitment. These locks now account for more than two tons.
Groß St. Martin
Groß St. Martin, located in Cologne, is a magnificent Romanesque church that stands as a prominent architectural gem and a testament to the city’s rich history. It has been part of Cologne’s skyline since the 12th century.
After it was hit by bombs and severely damaged in World War II, excavations were made underneath the choir and the foundations of Roman warehouses was discovered. The site used to be located on an island in the Rhine. The church was built on top of these warehouses and incorporated their remains. he origins of Groß St. Martin can be traced back to the early medieval period, and it has undergone various restorations and modifications over the centuries.
KölnTriangle
The KölnTriangle, a striking modern skyscraper located in Cologne, Germany, is a remarkable architectural landmark that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Open until 11:00 p.m., KölnTriangle is the best place to see the sun goes down behind the cathedral.
As per the Cologne Cathedral’s World Heritage, no buildings are allowed to interfere with the city’s skyline, and that’s why the KölnTriangle skyscraper was kept to just over 100 metres. It promises unique panoramic views of Cologne and its Old Town.
Christmas Market
Deutsch Weihnachtsmarktes (or german christmas markets) are one of Europe top destinations in winter. Most cities in Germany put on a market where you can enjoy their awesome Gluhwein.
In Cologne, there’s hardly a public space in the centre that doesn’t have some sort of Christmas-themed market and activity. The Christmas Market is a magical and enchanting seasonal event that draws locals and visitors alike to celebrate the festive spirit. Set against the backdrop of the historic Old Town, the market transforms the city into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, aromatic scents, and joyful sounds. It features an ice skating rink, a village for kids with St. Nicholas, and a lively gay and lesbian Christmas Avenue Market.
The KölnTriangle, a striking modern skyscraper located in Cologne, Germany, is a remarkable architectural landmark that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Open until 11:00 p.m., KölnTriangle is the best place to see the sun goes down behind the cathedral.
As per the Cologne Cathedral’s World Heritage, no buildings are allowed to interfere with the city’s skyline, and that’s why the KölnTriangle skyscraper was kept to just over 100 metres. It promises unique panoramic views of Cologne and its Old Town.