Cologne Travel Guide (Cologne Lowland/North Rhine-Westphalia/Germany/Central Europe/Europe)

Introduction to Cologne
List of Places to Visit in Cologne
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Cologne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Cologne
Best Things to Do in Cologne: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Cologne
Food and Drink Scene of Cologne
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Cologne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Cologne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Cologne
Best Time to Visit Cologne
Do’s and Don’ts of Cologne
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Cologne
- Health in Cologne
Getting to Cologne: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Cologne
Where to Go Next from Cologne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Cologne

Cologne, located in the heart of Germany, is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning architecture, magnificent museums, and bustling nightlife, Cologne is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With over two million residents, Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany and is a hub for art, commerce, and industry.

The city has something for everyone, from cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to shopping and dining experiences. This comprehensive tour guide will take you through the best things to do in Cologne, so you can make the most of your time in the city.

List of Places to Visit in Cologne

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cologne is home to some of the most important historical sites and museums in Germany. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about the past, these attractions are not to be missed.

Cologne Cathedral: Built over 600 years ago, the Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. Its towering spires, ornate carvings, and breathtaking stained glass windows make it a must-see monument.
Roman-Germanic Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of Roman artifacts, including jewelry, pottery, and weaponry.
Ludwig Museum: For modern art lovers, the Ludwig Museum is a must-visit. With a collection boasting works from Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein, among others, this museum is a testament to the genius of 20th century artists.
NS Documentation Center: This museum was established to remind people of Nazi crimes, and portrays the horrors that took place during the Nazi regime in Germany.

Natural Attractions of Cologne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cologne is surrounded by beautiful landscapes that offer a plethora of outdoor opportunities. Nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers will find plenty to do in the city’s surrounding areas.

Rheinpark: With its botanical garden, playgrounds, and picnic areas, Rheinpark is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
Rhine River Cruise: Take a cruise down the Rhine River to enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surrounding nature.
Kölnbreinsperre: This is the highest dam in Austria, which provides visitors with mesmerizing views of the Austrian Alps.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cologne

Cologne has an extensive network of hiking and biking routes. The city’s forested trails, nature reserves, and scenic bike paths make it an ideal destination for an outdoor adventure.

Cologne Green Belt: This nature reserve stretches over 30 km and is a popular destination for hikers and bikers.
Rhine Cycle Path: The Rhine Cycle Path stretches over 1230 km and passes through six countries. The section in Cologne is particularly picturesque, and offers stunning views of the river and city.
Hohes Venn: This is a nature reserve in Belgium, that features walking, hiking and cycling routes that are worth exploring.

Best Things to Do in Cologne: Activities and Tours

Cologne is a city with a wide range of activities and tours that will keep visitors busy and entertained. Here are some must-try activities to add to your itinerary.

Visit the Chocolate Museum: Chocolate lovers should not miss the chance to visit the Chocolate Museum, which offers a fascinating tour of the history and production of chocolate.
Take a Beer Tour: Cologne is known for its beer, and a beer tour is a great way to experience the city’s beer culture.
Go Shopping at Neumarkt: The Neumarkt district is home to a huge range of shops and boutiques, making it a great place to indulge in some retail therapy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cologne

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to make the most of their time in Cologne.

Day 1: Visit Cologne Cathedral and the Ludwig Museum Day 2: Take a Rhine River cruise and explore the Rheinpark
Day 3: Visit the Roman-Germanic Museum and stroll through the Belgian quarter Day 4: Explore the historic district of Altstadt and the medieval district of Kwartier Latäng Day 5: Visit the Hohes Venn nature reserve in Belgium Day 6: Take a beer tour and go shopping at Neumarkt Day 7: Visit the NS Documentation Center

Food and Drink Scene of Cologne

Must-Try Dishes

Cologne is a paradise for foodies, with a range of culinary delights to suit all tastes. Here are some must-try dishes to add to your list.

Himmel un Äd: This traditional dish is made with mashed potatoes, apples, and blood sausage and is a perfect example of the region’s culinary traditions.
Kölsch: Kölsch is a local beer that is served in small glasses and is perfect for cooling down in the summer months.
Reibekuchen: These are potato pancakes that are often served with apple sauce.

Local Beverages

Cologne has a vibrant drinking scene, with plenty of local beverages to sample.

Kölsch: As mentioned earlier, Kölsch is a must-try beer in Cologne.
Kölnisch Wasser: Kölnisch Wasser is a traditional eau de cologne made in Cologne, which has a citrusy fragrance.

Where to Stay in Cologne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cologne has a range of accommodation options, suitable for all budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider.

The Hostel Köln: This hostel is located in the heart of the city and offers affordable accommodation.
Hilton Cologne: For a more upscale option, the Hilton Cologne is a great choice. It is located near the train station, making it convenient for travelers.
Guesthouse Kaiser: This guesthouse is located in the historic district of Altstadt and offers a cozy, home-like experience.

What to Buy in Cologne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cologne has a range of local products that make great souvenirs. Here are some items to consider bringing home.

Eau de Cologne: Kölnisch Wasser or Eau de Cologne is one of the most famous products of the city.
Chocolates: Cologne is known for its chocolates, and there are plenty of chocolatiers in the city to choose from.
Kölsch Glasses: Kölsch glasses are the perfect souvenir for beer lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Cologne

Cologne has a unique culture and history that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind during your visit.

Cologne Carnival: This festival is held annually in February and is one of the biggest street parties in the world. Expect parades, costumes, and plenty of beer.
Kölsch Language: Cologne has its own dialect called Kölsch, which is spoken mainly by locals.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Germany, but it is customary to round up the bill in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Cologne

Cologne can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cologne

Do:

Do try the local beer and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Do visit the Cologne Cathedral, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
Do take a stroll along the Rhine River and enjoy the city’s beautiful scenery.

Don’t:

Don’t forget to bring cash, as credit cards are not always accepted in shops and cafes.
Don’t forget to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, such as the Cologne Cathedral.
Don’t be overly loud or disrespectful in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cologne

Cologne is a safe city to visit, but travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing and other minor crimes.

Health in Cologne

Medical facilities in Cologne are modern and efficient, and travelers can expect good medical care if needed. However, it is advisable to ensure that you have adequate travel insurance before visiting Germany.

Getting to Cologne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cologne is well connected by a range of transport options, making it easy for visitors to get around. Here are some options to consider.

Cologne Bonn Airport: This airport is located approximately 15 km from Cologne, and has domestic and international flights.
Cologne Central Station: The central train station in Cologne is well connected to other cities and towns in Germany and Europe.
Buses: Buses are an affordable option for getting around Cologne and the surrounding areas.

Airports Near Cologne

Cologne Bonn Airport: As mentioned earlier, this is the main airport serving the city and is located approximately 15 km from the city center.
Düsseldorf Airport: Düsseldorf Airport is approximately 45 km from Cologne, and offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Cologne

Cologne Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Cologne and is located near the central train station.
Messeplatz: Messeplatz is a bus station located in Deutz, a district across the Rhine River, which is connected to the city by a bridge.

Other Options

Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Cologne and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
Cycling: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in Cologne, and there are plenty of dedicated bike paths throughout the city.

How to Get Around in Cologne

Cologne has an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city. The public transport system includes buses, trams, and trains. Taxis are readily available, and cycling is a popular choice for visitors who want to explore the city on their own.

Where to Go Next from Cologne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cologne is well connected to other destinations in Germany and Europe, making it easy to plan excursions from the city. Here are some destinations to consider.

Düsseldorf: The city of Düsseldorf is located approximately 45 km from Cologne and is known for its historic district and art scene.
Brussels: Brussels is the capital of Belgium and is located approximately two hours from Cologne by train.
Amsterdam: The charming city of Amsterdam is located approximately three hours from Cologne by train.

Conclusion

Cologne is a city with a rich history and culture, and is a must-visit destination for any traveler. With its stunning architecture, plethora of outdoor activities, and culinary delights, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Planning your trip using this comprehensive tour guide will ensure that you make the most of your time in Cologne.