Cologne is a charming and historic German city located on the banks of the Rhine River. With its stunning cathedral, and vibrant nightlife, visit Cologne is a must for any traveler. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to visit Cologne, especially if you only have one day to spare. In this travel guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time in Cologne, highlighting the top things to see and do as some tips on how to prepare and make the most of your visit.
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Top 10 Must-See Sights when visit Cologne
Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Mary, is one of the most iconic sights in Cologne. This massive Gothic cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Germany. The cathedral’s twin spires can be seen from all over the city and the interior is just as impressive as the exterior.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1248 and took over 600 years to complete. The exterior of the cathedral is characterized by its twin spires, which reach a height of 157 meters, making it one of the tallest cathedrals in the world. The spires are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including a statue of the city’s patron saint, Saint Peter. The main entrance of the cathedral is also impressive, with a large portal that is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.
The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as the exterior, with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and a treasury that houses important religious artifacts. The most famous of these is the Shrine of the Three Kings, which contains the remains of the Magi who visited Jesus after his birth. The cathedral’s high altar is also an impressive sight, with its ornate decoration and sculptures. Visitors can also climb the south tower for panoramic views of the city.
Cologne Cathedral is not only a great tourist attraction but also it’s an important religious site, as well as an architectural masterpiece. It’s a must-see destination for any visitor to Cologne, and it’s open to visitors year-round.
Hohenzollern Bridge
The Hohenzollern Bridge is a historic bridge across the Rhine River in Cologne. It connects the city center with the Deutz neighborhood and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The bridge is known for its stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for taking photos. It’s also known as the “Love Bridge,” as it’s a popular spot for couples to attach locks to the railings to symbolize their love.
The Hohenzollern Bridge was first opened in 1883, and it was the first railway bridge across the Rhine River. It was also the first bridge in Germany to be built with steel girders. The bridge was heavily damaged during World War II and was rebuilt in the 1950s.
One of the most unique features of the Hohenzollern Bridge is the “Love Locks” – a tradition where couples attach a lock to the bridge’s railings with their initials and the date. This tradition started in 2008, and since then, the number of locks has grown to over 40,000. The tradition has become so popular that in 2014, the bridge had to be closed for repairs due to the weight of the locks.
The bridge is also a popular spot for events like the annual “Bridge Festival” which is held every summer, and it’s a great place to catch a glimpse of the city’s famous fireworks.
The Hohenzollern Bridge is a great spot to visit during your trip to Cologne, whether you’re looking for stunning views of the city, a romantic spot to attach a “Love Lock” or just enjoy the atmosphere.
Alter Markt
Alter Markt, also known as the “Old Market,” is a picturesque square in the heart of the city of Cologne. It’s located in the historic city center and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the city hall and the Frauenkirche. The square is known for its charming atmosphere, and it’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
The Alter Markt is one of the oldest squares in Cologne, dating back to the 13th century. It was the original marketplace of the city, and it’s still a popular spot for shopping and dining. The square is surrounded by a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat or just take in the sights and sounds of the city.
One of the most notable buildings on the square is the city hall, which was built in the 14th century. The city hall features a striking Gothic facade and is home to the city’s council chambers. The Frauenkirche, which is a church dedicated to Saint Mary, is also located on the square. The church is known for its impressive Gothic architecture, and it’s open to visitors year-round.
trabantos / Shutterstock.comThe Alter Markt is also a popular spot for events and festivals. The square is the site of the city’s famous Christmas market, which is held every year in December, and it’s also the location of the annual “Cologne Carnival” parade, which is held every February.
The Alter Markt is a great spot to visit during your trip to Cologne, whether you’re looking for charming atmosphere, shopping, dining or just take in the sights and sounds of the city. It’s a great place to experience the history, culture and the lively atmosphere of the city.
KölnTriangle
KölnTriangle is a modern skyscraper located in the Deutz neighborhood of Cologne. The building is known for its unique triangular shape and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck on the top floor. It’s also home to a variety of shops and restaurants.
The KölnTriangle building was completed in 2012 and stands at a height of 118 meters. The building’s unique triangular shape is designed to reflect the shape of the nearby Hohenzollern Bridge, and it’s become an iconic feature of the city’s skyline. The building’s observation deck, which is located on the top floor, offers visitors panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
Gerald Mayer / Shutterstock.comThe building also features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes on its lower floors. Visitors can find a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and jewelry to souvenirs and local products. There are also several restaurants and cafes, offering a range of cuisines and dining options.
The KölnTriangle building is a great destination for visitors looking for panoramic views of the city, shopping and dining. It’s a modern contrast to the historic architecture of the city and it’s a great place to catch a glimpse of the city’s famous skyline. The building is open to the public year-round and it’s accessible by public transportation.
St. Gereon’s Basilica
St. Gereon’s Basilica is an early Christian church located in Cologne. The church is one of the oldest in the city and is known for its unique round design. It’s also known for its impressive mosaics and frescoes, which are said to be some of the best preserved in Europe.
The church was built in the 4th century AD and is dedicated to Saint Gereon, a Roman soldier and martyr. The church’s round design is unique, as most early Christian churches were built in the basilica style, which is characterized by a rectangular shape. The round shape of St. Gereon’s Basilica is thought to have been influenced by the Roman rotunda, a circular building that was commonly used for public assemblies.
The church’s mosaics and frescoes are some of the most impressive features of the church. The mosaics, which date back to the 4th century, are considered to be some of the best preserved in Europe and feature intricate geometric patterns and images of animals and birds. The frescoes, which were added in the 12th century, depict scenes from the life of Saint Gereon and other saints.
The church is also home to a number of important religious artifacts, including a reliquary that contains the remains of Saint Gereon and an altar that dates back to the 4th century.
St. Gereon’s Basilica is a great destination for history buffs and anyone interested in early Christian architecture. It’s a must-see destination for any visitor to Cologne, and it’s open to visitors year-round.
St. Ursula’s Church
St. Ursula’s Church is a church located in Cologne, that is dedicated to Saint Ursula, a legendary martyr and patron saint of the city. The church is known for its beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and for housing the remains of Saint Ursula and her 11,000 virgins.
According to legend, Saint Ursula was a British princess who, along with 11,000 virgins, was martyred in Cologne in the 4th century AD. The church, which is located in the heart of the city, is said to be built on the site of their martyrdom. The church’s origins can be traced back to the 4th century, but the current building dates back to the 14th century.
One of the most notable features of the church is its impressive stained glass windows. The church is home to a number of beautiful windows that date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, and that depict scenes from the life of Saint Ursula and other saints. The church’s altar, which is made of marble and dates back to the 14th century, is also an impressive sight, with its intricate carvings and sculptures.
The church is also home to a number of important religious artifacts, including a reliquary that contains the remains of Saint Ursula and her 11,000 virgins.
St. Ursula’s Church is a great destination for visitors interested in history and religious architecture. It’s a must-see destination for any visitor to Cologne, and it’s open to visitors year-round.
Stadtgarten
Stadtgarten is a large park located in the heart of the city of Cologne. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and it’s a great spot to relax and take in some fresh air. The park is known for its beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and a lake, making it a popular spot for families.
The park covers an area of around 30 hectares and is home to a variety of different gardens and landscaped areas. The “Rose Garden” is one of the most popular attractions, featuring a wide variety of roses and other flowers. The “Japanese Garden” is also a popular spot, featuring traditional Japanese plants and a small pond with koi fish.
Stadtgarten also has a playground for children, which includes a variety of equipment such as swings, slides, and climbing structures. The park also has a lake where visitors can rent boats and enjoy a leisurely paddle.
The park is also home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the “Flora,” which is a botanical garden and greenhouse, and the “Zoological Garden,” which is home to a variety of animals from all over the world.
Stadtgarten is a great destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful spot to relax in the heart of the city. The park is open to visitors year-round and is easily accessible by public transportation.
Culture
Cologne offers a wide range of cultural events and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in music, art, theater, or film, there’s something for everyone to experience.
Cologne Carnival
The Cologne Carnival is one of the most famous cultural events in the city, and it takes place every year in February or March. The Carnival is a celebration of the city’s traditions and it features a variety of events, such as parades, parties, and street performances.
The Carnival is a time for residents and visitors alike to let loose and have fun, and it’s a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions. During the Carnival, the streets are filled with people dressed in costumes, dancing, and singing. The highlight of the event is the Rose Monday Parade, which is the largest parade of the Carnival and it features floats, music, and dancing.
ying tang / Shutterstock.comIn addition to the parades, the Carnival also features a variety of parties, street food, and drinks, making it a great opportunity to sample the local cuisine and drinks.
The Cologne Carnival has a long history, dating back to the 19th century, and it has become a beloved tradition in the city. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Carnival is a must-see event and a great way to experience the city’s culture and traditions.
Music Events
One of the most famous music events in the city is the annual c/o pop Festival, which is a festival dedicated to contemporary pop music. The festival features a variety of live performances by up-and-coming artists, as well as established musicians, and it’s a great opportunity for visitors to experience the city’s music scene.
In addition to the c/o pop Festival, there are a number of other music events and festivals that take place in Cologne, including the Cologne Summer Festival, which is a series of outdoor concerts that take place in the summer months, and the Kölner Musiknacht, which is an annual event that features a variety of live music performances throughout the city.
There are also a number of smaller music events that take place in the city’s clubs and bars, including jazz nights, live performances by local bands, and DJ sets. These events are a great way to experience the city’s music scene and sample the local talent.
Whether you’re interested in classical music, pop, rock, or jazz, there’s something for everyone to experience in Cologne. The city is home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the Philharmonie and the Stadtgarten, which host a variety of concerts and live performances throughout the year.
Culture Festivals
In addition to the Carnival, there are a number of other cultural festivals that take place in the city, including the Cologne Summer Festival, which is a series of outdoor concerts that take place in the summer months, and the Köln Light Festival, which is an annual event that features a variety of light installations and performances throughout the city.
Cologne is home to a variety of film festivals, such as the International Short Film Festival, which is dedicated to showcasing the best in international short film, and the Fantasy Filmfest, which is a festival dedicated to fantasy and science fiction films.
Museums
Cologne is a city with a rich cultural heritage and it has a wide range of museums that offer visitors a glimpse into its history, art, and culture. From ancient Roman artifacts to contemporary art and chocolate-making, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
The Römisch-Germanisches Museum (Roman-Germanic Museum) is a museum located in Cologne, that is dedicated to the Roman history of the city. It is home to a large collection of Roman artifacts, including mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures. The museum is located in the heart of the city, in the Roman-era district of Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium (CCAA), which was the Roman name of Cologne.
The museum’s collection is divided into two main sections: the Roman section, which is located in the basement of the museum and features a variety of Roman artifacts including mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures. The Germanic section, which is located on the upper floors of the museum, features a variety of artifacts from the Germanic tribes that inhabited the region during the Roman era.
chrisdorney / Shutterstock.comOne of the most impressive artifacts on display at the museum is the “Cologne Dionysus Mosaic”, which is a large mosaic floor from a Roman villa that dates back to the 2nd century AD. The mosaic is made up of over a million tesserae and depicts scenes from the life of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and fertility.
The museum also features interactive exhibits, such as a replica of a Roman house and a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore the city of CCAA during the Roman era.
The Römisch-Germanisches Museum is a great destination for history buffs and anyone interested in Roman history. It offers an in-depth look at the Roman history of Cologne, and it’s a great way to learn more about the city’s past and its connection to the Roman Empire.
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is an art museum located in Cologne. The museum is home to an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. It’s particularly known for its collection of Impressionist paintings.
The museum was founded in 1824 and is named after its founders, Franz Wallraf and Peter Joseph Lenné. The museum’s collection includes works by some of the most famous artists of the past, such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Monet.
The museum’s Impressionist collection is particularly impressive, and it features works by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Degas. The collection also includes works by German Impressionists such as Max Liebermann and Lovis Corinth.
frantic00 / Shutterstock.comThe museum also houses a collection of medieval art, which includes panel paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts. Visitors can also find a collection of prints and drawings, which includes works by Albrecht Dürer, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Peter Paul Rubens.
The Wallraf-Richartz Museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on a variety of art-related topics. The museum’s library and archives are also open to researchers.
The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is a great destination for art lovers and anyone interested in European art. The museum is open to visitors year-round and it’s accessible by public transportation.
Chocolate Museum
The Chocolate Museum is a museum located in Cologne, that offers a fascinating look at the history and production of chocolate. The museum is located on the banks of the Rhine River and is a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
The museum’s exhibits cover the history of chocolate, from its origins in Mesoamerica to its arrival in Europe and its eventual mass production. Visitors can learn about the cocoa tree, the chocolate-making process, and the various types of chocolate. The museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a replica of a cocoa plantation and a chocolate-making demonstration.
Philip Lange / Shutterstock.comOne of the highlights of the museum is the chocolate tasting. Visitors can taste a variety of different chocolates, including traditional European chocolate and chocolate from around the world. The museum also has a chocolate shop where visitors can purchase a variety of chocolate treats to take home.
The Chocolate Museum is a great destination for chocolate lovers and anyone interested in the history and production of chocolate. The museum is open to visitors year-round and it’s accessible by public transportation.
Other Museums
Cologne is also home to a number of smaller museums that are dedicated to specific topics, such as the Museum of Applied Art, which showcases a collection of decorative arts, furniture, and industrial design. The Museum of the City of Cologne, which is located in the city hall, provides a history of the city from Roman times to the present. The Museum of Photography, which is located in the historic Deutz district, features a collection of contemporary and historical photography.
For those interested in science, the Museum of Natural History is a great destination. It has a vast collection of natural specimens from around the world, including fossils, minerals, and animals. The Museum of Human Evolution is also a great destination, it’s dedicated to the study of human evolution and it’s a great spot for those who want to learn more about the origins of human species.
Nightlife
The city is known for its lively nightlife scene, and there are a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs that offer a great opportunity to experience the city after dark.
Belgisches Viertel
The Belgisches Viertel is one of the most popular areas for nightlife in Cologne. This neighborhood is located in the center of the city and is known for its lively and vibrant atmosphere. There are a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs in the Belgisches Viertel that offer a great opportunity to experience the city’s nightlife scene.
One of the highlights of the Belgisches Viertel’s nightlife scene is its selection of bars, which offer a wide range of drinks and cocktails, as well as live music and DJ sets. There are bars that cater to different types of music, such as jazz, rock, and electronic music, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Some popular bars in the Belgisches Viertel include Bumann & Sohn, O’Reilly’s Irish Pub, and Subway.
gerd-harder / Shutterstock.comIn addition to bars, there are also a number of clubs in the Belgisches Viertel that offer a lively and energetic atmosphere. These clubs are popular with young people and are known for their energetic music and dancing. Some popular clubs in the Belgisches Viertel include Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld and the Gebäude 9.
The Belgisches Viertel is also known for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a drink with friends or to meet new people. There are a number of outdoor cafes and terraces in the neighborhood that offer a great place to relax and people-watch, as well as plenty of restaurants that serve a variety of food and drinks.
Zülpicher Straße
Zülpicher Straße is another popular area for nightlife in Cologne. This street is located in the city center and is known for its lively atmosphere, with a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs that offer a great opportunity to experience the city’s nightlife scene.
One of the highlights of Zülpicher Straße’s nightlife scene is its selection of bars, which offer a wide range of drinks and cocktails, as well as live music and DJ sets. There are bars that cater to different types of music, such as rock, hip-hop, and electronic music, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Some popular bars in Zülpicher Straße include Häzz, Jägerklause, and Max Bar.
In addition to bars, there are also a number of clubs in Zülpicher Straße that offer a lively and energetic atmosphere. These clubs are popular with young people and are known for their energetic music and dancing. Some popular clubs in Zülpicher Straße include Club 25 and Odonien.
The atmosphere in Zülpicher Straße is lively and energetic, making it a great place to party and dance the night away. There are a number of outdoor terraces in the area that offer a great place to relax and people-watch, as well as plenty of restaurants that serve a variety of food and drinks.
Best ways to get around
Cologne is a well-connected city, making it easy to get around and explore its many sights and attractions. Here are some of the best ways to get around the city:
Public Transportation
Cologne has an extensive public transportation network, which includes buses, streetcars, and trains. The city’s transportation system is operated by the Kölner Verkehrsbetriebe (KVB), and tickets can be purchased at vending machines, online, or through the KVB app.
Bicycle
Cycling is a popular way to get around in Cologne, with a well-developed network of bike lanes and bike-friendly streets. There are several bike rental companies in the city that offer affordable rentals, including nextbike and Dein Fahrrad.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Cologne, and they can be hailed on the street or ordered in advance through an app such as mytaxi or Uber.
Walking
Cologne is a compact city with many of its sights and attractions within easy walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to get around and see the city at a leisurely pace.
Boat Tours
Cologne is located on the Rhine River, and boat tours are a popular way to explore the city from the water. There are several boat tour companies that offer sightseeing cruises, including Köln-Düsseldorfer and the Rhein-Schifffahrt.
How to get there
Regardless of your starting point, getting to Cologne is easy and convenient, with frequent train and flight options available from many major cities in Germany.
| Destination | Distance (km) | Distance (mi) | By Car | By Train | By Bus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berlin | 430 | 267 | 6-7 h | 4 h | 6-7 h |
| Hanover | 250 | 155 | 3-4 h | 2.5 h | 3-4 h |
| Hamburg | 400 | 249 | 5-6 h | 4 h | 5-6 h |
| Munich | 630 | 391 | 8-9 h | 6 h | 8-9 h |
| Stuttgart | 360 | 224 | 5-6 h | 4 h | 5-6 h |
| Frankfurt | 160 | 99 | 2-3 h | 1.5 h | 2-3 h |
Note: These estimates are approximate and may vary based on traffic, route, and mode of transportation.
