Cologne, Germany is a historical and culturally rich city located in the western part of the country. It is famous for its stunning cathedral, the Kölner Dom, which is one of the largest and tallest Gothic cathedrals in the world. In addition to its impressive architecture, the city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and exhibitions showcasing everything from ancient Roman artifacts to modern art. Cologne is also known for its lively social scene, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs to suit all tastes. The city is home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Cologne Carnival, Christmas markets, and Gamescom, Europe’s largest gaming trade fair. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just a good time, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant German city.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Cologne:
| Place | Description | Cost |
| Cologne Cathedral | A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, a must-see attraction for architecture enthusiasts. | Free |
| Old Town of Cologne | Where you’ll find a number of charming medieval houses, like “the Golden Bottle” a half-timbered house dating back to 1411, a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts. | Free |
| Groß St. Martin | The Great Saint Martin Church is a Romanesque Catholic church in Cologne, Germany. It has been part of the skyline since the 12th century, Cologne would be the same without the fabulous crossing tower of Groß St. Martin. | Free |
| Hohenzollern Bridge | A famous bridge with a great spot for lovers of river views. | Free |
| St. Gereon’s Basilica | A beautiful Roman Catholic church dating back to the 4th century, a must-see attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts. | Free |
| Cologne Botanical Garden | A peaceful and beautiful spot where you can explore a variety of plants and flowers, a great option for nature lovers and those who want to relax and unwind. | Free |
| Phildelphia Church | A beautiful church with a great view of the city and its skyline, a great spot for photography enthusiasts. | Free |
| KölnTriangle | Modern building with a panoramic viewing platform. On the right bank of the Rhine its panoramic observation deck affords a photogenic view of the old town, the cathedral towers and the 266-metre Colonius telecom tower behind it. | 9€ |
| Roman-Germanic Museum | Which showcases the history and culture of ancient Rome in Germany, a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts. | 8€ |
| Fragrance Museum | Museum showcasing the history of perfumes and fragrances. Fascinating to learn where Eau de Cologne was invented in the 18th century. | 7€ |
| Belgian Quarter | Known for its vibrant nightlife, including bars and clubs, a great option for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and live music. | varies |
| Ludwig Museum | Which features works by many world-renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. | 12€ |
| Chocolate Museum | An interactive museum about the history and production of chocolate, a great option for chocolate lovers and families. | 10€ |
Some paid tour options:
If you wish to visit another lovely city in Germany, consider Frankfurt!
What are some places you like about Cologne? Comment below!
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