Your Essential Travel Guide To Cologne
Discover Things To Do In Cologne
Step into the past and experience the rich history of Cologne! Marvel at the seamless fusion of ancient Roman architecture and contemporary masterpieces as you explore the city's charming streets.
To fully experience Cologne, visit its Gothic Cathedral for breath-taking views, indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum, and discover exotic animals at the Cologne Zoo.
With so much to see and do, Cologne truly offers something for everyone. Not sure where to start? Use GetYourGuide to help plan your trip.
Culture in Cologne
For a taste of local charm, explore the charming cobblestoned streets of Altstadt, the city's Old Town, where you'll find cosy cafes, quaint shops, and delicious restaurants nestled among the brightly coloured houses. Joining a guided walking tour is a great way to see the sights.
Art enthusiasts should head to the Museum Ludwig, which showcases a remarkable collection of modern art, whilst venues like Kölner Philharmonie, Köln Arena, or Gloria Theater are great for live music performances. For a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely Rhine River cruise for picturesque views of Cologne's historic skyline and surrounding countryside.
Top tip - it’s worth picking up a KölnCard to help you get around and explore the city’s attractions for less.
Shopping in Cologne
Cologne attracts shoppers from far and wide and offers a wide range of stores from high street fashion to exclusive designer outlets.
Apostelnstrasse is a shopping street in the heart of Cologne. You'll find a whole variety of shops here, including high quality jewellers and goldsmiths.
Neumarkt Passage Arcade is another popular shopping destination with a range of high-quality specialist stores located both inside and outside the arcade.
As the name suggests, Cologne is widely considered the birthplace of fragrance and has many perfume shops, including flagship stores of well-known brands like 4711, Fragonard, and Mäurer & Wirtz.
Dining in Cologne
Immerse yourself in Cologne's gastronomic scene - from classic Rhenish dishes to gourmet cuisine, the city has something for every palate.
Check out Em Krützche, a charming restaurant housed in a beautiful old building by the Rhine offering classic German cuisine. If you're looking for a stunning view, MICHELIN Star restaurant Zur Tant also sits in an idyllic location on the river and features a lovely terrace. Looking for something more laid back? Visit Hard Rock Café for juicy burgers and its world-famous rock and roll vibe.
And no trip to Cologne would be complete without trying the local beer! Book a brewhouse tour to learn about the city's famous brewing culture from the experts.
