Cologne: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
Located in the western part of the country, this city is renowned for its impressive cathedral, beautiful arts scene, and significant Roman history. It's also known for its annual Carnival and the original Eau de Cologne.
- Population
- 1.09 millions
- Size
- 405 square km
- Airport
- Cologne Bonn – Int'l
- Train Station
- Köln Hauptbahnhof
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is renowned for its iconic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its vibrant cultural scene, including many museums and galleries. The city also hosts one of the country's most famous carnivals, adding to its appeal as a tourist destination. However, Cologne can be quite crowded, especially during major events, which might detract from the experience for some visitors. Additionally, the weather in Cologne can be unpredictable, with a tendency towards rainy conditions. Despite these issues, the city's efficient public transportation system makes it relatively easy to navigate and explore.
Traffic & Transport
The city's public transportation system is highly efficient and is the recommended mode for navigating the urban area, especially for tourists. The extensive network includes trams, buses, and trains, all of which are interconnected, making it easy to access major tourist attractions. For those looking to explore at their own pace, bicycles are also a popular and convenient option, with numerous rental stations available throughout the city. Walking is another excellent way to experience the central areas, which are pedestrian-friendly and offer a more intimate view of the surroundings. For taxi services, several reliable companies operate in the city, including Taxi-Ruf and CityFunk. Additionally, the use of taxi-booking apps like MyTaxi and Uber provides a convenient option for securing a ride, with the added benefit of real-time tracking and payment through the app.
History
Founded by the Romans in 50 AD as "Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium," the city quickly became a major center for trade along the Rhine River. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was a free imperial city and a prominent member of the Hanseatic League, which significantly boosted its economic and cultural development. The city was heavily bombed during World War II, leading to the destruction of most of its historic buildings. Post-war reconstruction efforts focused on restoring its iconic cathedral and revitalizing its cultural scene. Today, it is known for its energetic arts community, annual carnival, and as a hub for media and technology.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Cologne's highlights over two days with this focused itinerary:
– First day: Visit Cologne Cathedral, explore the Roman-Germanic Museum, and stroll through the Old Town. End your day with a cruise on the Rhine River.
– Second day: Tour the Chocolate Museum, walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, and visit the Cologne Zoo.
Near Excursion
This city is a great starting point for several exciting day trips. Here are some suggestions:
– Bonn at 30 km: Visit the birthplace of Beethoven and explore the historic city center.
– Aachen at 70 km: Discover the famous Aachen Cathedral and its rich history.
– Düsseldorf at 40 km: Enjoy the beautiful art scene and the scenic Rhine River promenade.
– Eifel National Park at 65 km: Perfect for hiking and experiencing Germany's natural beauty.
– Phantasialand at 20 km: A popular theme park offering a variety of rides and entertainment.
Attraction
This city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and lively cultural scene.
– Cologne Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Gothic masterpiece is the city's most iconic landmark.
– Museum Ludwig: Features an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso and Warhol.
– Hohenzollern Bridge: Famous for its love locks, this bridge offers great views of the Rhine River.
– Old Town (Altstadt): A charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional pubs.
– Chocolate Museum: Learn about the history of chocolate and enjoy interactive exhibits and tastings.
– Rheinpark: A large park along the Rhine River, perfect for relaxing walks and picnics.
Activity
In Cologne, travelers can enjoy a mix of historical, cultural, and outdoor activities.
– Rhine River Cruise: Experience the city's skyline and landmarks from a scenic boat ride.
– Cologne Cable Car: Ride over the Rhine River for panoramic city views.
– Cologne Cathedral Roof Tour: Climb 533 steps for a unique perspective of the city.
– Cologne Zoo: Visit one of the oldest and most diverse zoos in Germany.
– Botanical Gardens Flora: Explore a variety of plant species in a peaceful setting.
Cuisine
The city offers a mix of traditional German cuisine and local specialties, often enjoyed in cozy pubs and beer gardens. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Himmel un Ääd: Mashed potatoes with applesauce, often served with blood sausage.
– Rheinischer Sauerbraten: Marinated pot roast, typically served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.
– Halver Hahn: Rye bread roll with cheese, mustard, and pickles.
– Kölsche Kaviar: Blood sausage served with onions and rye bread.
– Reibekuchen: Crispy potato pancakes, usually accompanied by applesauce.
– Rievkooche: Another term for potato pancakes, highlighting their popularity in the region.
Shopping
The city offers a lively shopping experience at Schildergasse, one of Europe's busiest shopping streets. Here, you can find a wide range of international retail brands and local boutiques. For a unique gift, consider purchasing a bottle of 4711 Original Eau de Cologne, a classic fragrance with a history dating back to the 18th century. Another great option is a piece of traditional craftsmanship like a hand-carved music box from the Erzgebirge region, available in several shops. The Belgian Quarter is ideal for finding eclectic and artisan gifts, including handmade jewelry and art. During the winter, the Christmas Markets are perfect for picking up unique, festive decorations and crafts.
Arts & Culture
The city is renowned for its pleasant arts scene, notably the Museum Ludwig, which houses a comprehensive collection of modern art, including significant works by Picasso. The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. The city also celebrates Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe, which features parades, music, dancing, and traditional costumes. Additionally, the Philharmonie hosts a wide range of musical performances, from classical to contemporary.