Map of Cologne, Germany

🏰 What to do in Cologne

Cologne offers a variety of activities for visitors to explore its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. From iconic landmarks to engaging experiences, there is something for everyone in this dynamic city.

• Best Budget Activity in Cologne:

  Cologne Cathedral: Visit the stunning Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its Gothic architecture and panoramic views of the city from the tower.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Cologne:

  Chocolate Museum (Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum): Indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum and learn about the history of chocolate while enjoying interactive exhibits and tastings.

• Best Luxury Activity in Cologne:

  Rhine River Cruise: Splurge on a luxurious Rhine River cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and picturesque landscapes along the river.

🍽️ Where to eat in Cologne

Cologne boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a mix of traditional German dishes and international flavors. Must-try foods include the iconic Kölsch beer, hearty pork knuckle, and delicious local pastries.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Cologne:

  Brauhaus Sion•$$:

  Traditional German cuisine

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Cologne:

  Lommerzheim•$$$:

  Kölsch beer and regional dishes

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Cologne:

  Ox & Klee•$$$$:

  Fine dining with a modern twist

• Best Budget Bar in Cologne:

  Papa Joe's•$:

  Kölsch beer

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Cologne:

  Shepheard•$$:

  Craft cocktails

• Best Luxury Bar in Cologne:

  Excelsior Hotel Ernst Bar•$$$$:

  Champagne and signature cocktails

🏛️ What to see in Cologne

Cologne is a city steeped in history and home to magnificent architectural wonders that are must-visit landmarks for every traveler. From iconic cathedrals to picturesque riverside views, exploring these sights will give you a glimpse into Cologne's rich heritage.

• Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Do:

  Germany's most visited landmark, this breathtaking Gothic cathedral boasts intricate details, stunning stained glass windows, and a grand façade that leaves visitors in awe.

• Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrück:

  Famous for its love locks adorning the railings, this pedestrian bridge offers panoramic views of the Rhine River and Cologne's skyline, making it a romantic spot for sightseeing.

• Museum Ludwig:

  An impressive modern art museum housing works by Picasso, Warhol, and other renowned artists, Museum Ludwig is a cultural gem that showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art.

• Cologne Old Town (Altstad:

  Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, lined with historic buildings, cozy cafes, and traditional beer halls, capturing the essence of Cologne's medieval past.

• Rhine River Promenade:

  Stroll along the scenic Rhine River Promenade and soak in picturesque views of the river, passing by historic landmarks, outdoor cafes, and vibrant street performers that bring the waterfront to life.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Cologne

Cologne offers a diverse shopping experience, with everything from bustling marketplaces to luxury boutiques. Explore the city's shopping districts to discover unique finds and trendy fashion pieces.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Cologne:

  Schildergasse: As one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe, Schildergasse is a bustling hub for budget-friendly shops, department stores, and popular brands, offering a wide range of fashion, accessories, and souvenirs at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Cologne:

  Ehrenstraße: Known for its mix of trendy boutiques, independent shops, and fashionable cafes, Ehrenstraße is a go-to destination for mid-range shopping, with a focus on unique apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products that cater to modern tastes.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Cologne:

  Mittelstraße in the Belgian Quarter: Explore the upscale boutiques and designer stores along Mittelstraße in the stylish Belgian Quarter, where you can shop for high-end fashion, luxury brands, and exquisite home decor items in a sophisticated setting.

🚇 Getting Around Cologne

• Public Transport

  Cologne offers an efficient public transportation network comprising buses, trams, and trains. The KölnCard is a popular option for tourists, providing unlimited travel on public transport within the city for 24 or 48 hours. Single tickets can also be purchased for individual journeys, with prices starting from €2.90. Buses and trams run frequently throughout the day, typically from around 5:00 am to midnight, making it convenient to explore the city.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof) is the primary railway hub in the city, offering connections to national and international destinations. The Köln Bonn Airport is located approximately 15 km southeast of the city center and is easily accessible by train or bus. The Köln Messe/Deutz station is another important transport hub, especially for visitors attending events at the Koelnmesse exhibition center.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Major car rental companies such as Sixt, Europcar, and Hertz have branches in Cologne, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit different needs. Prices for rental cars start from around €30 per day.