25 Things to Do in Cologne in Fall

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Cologne is a beautiful city located in western Germany.

With a rich history and a lively cultural scene, there is always something to see and do in Cologne. From visiting historical landmarks to enjoying seasonal festivals and events, there are countless activities to keep you entertained.

In this article, you will find a list of 25 things to do in Cologne during the fall season. So that you can make the most of your time in this wonderful city.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW….

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With the KölnCard, you can travel for free on public transport and receive discounts of up to 50% from numerous partners.

So, if you’re looking for a way to make your trip to Cologne budget-friendly, be sure to get your hands on the KölnCard.

25 THINGS TO DO IN COLOGNE IN FALL

1. Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is the most famous landmark of the citiy of Cologne. It has two tall spires reaching 157 meters high, so it is easy to spot from all around the city.

Over 600 years of work went into building the cathedral – from the 1200s to the 1800s. Today, people from all over the world come to see this amazing church.

Inside the cathedral, there are really beautiful stained glass windows, carvings, and valuable artwork. Some of the most special things in there are the Gero-Kreuz crucifix, the black marble high altar, and the gilded shrine of the Three Kings.

To enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, visitors can climb to the top of one of the towers.

The cathedral was damaged during World War II but has since been restored to its former glory. Today, it remains a popular tourist attraction, attracting people who are interested in history, architecture, or just want to take in the beautiful views of Cologne.

Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Cologne

2. Cologne’s Historical Churches

The city of Cologne is home to 12 Romanesque churches that are considered some of the most beautiful and historically significant buildings in Germany. These churches were built between the 10th and 13th centuries and have survived wars and natural disasters

Each church has its unique design and history. Many of them feature intricate stained-glass windows, ornate altars, and stunning works of art.

Some of the most notable churches include St. Maria im Kapitol, St. Gereon, and St. Aposteln.

One of the best times to visit these churches is in the fall when the tourist crowds have subsided.

One of the best ways to see all 12 churches is to take a self-guided walking tour or a guided tour, which will take you to each church and provide historical context.

Alternatively, you can visit them at your own pace and enjoy the quiet beauty of each church.

Visiting the 12 Romanesque churches is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Cologne.

Whether you are interested in religious architecture, art, or history, these churches are a must-see.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these magnificent structures and discover the unique beauty of each one.

3. Ancient Roman tomb (Römergrab)

The Römergrab (Roman Tomb) in Cologne Weiden is an important historical site that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The tomb is a well-preserved ancient Roman burial site that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is one of the few Roman tombs in Germany that has been preserved in its original form.

The Römergrab is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can take the tram to reach the site.

The tomb is a significant piece of Roman history and features an impressive stone structure with elaborate carvings and engravings.

Inside, visitors can explore the details of the tomb’s decorations, including the depiction of the deceased and their loved ones. There are also informative displays that provide visitors with insight into the life and customs of the ancient Romans.

If you are interested in history and ancient cultures, a visit to the Römergrab in Cologne Weiden is highly recommended.

The tomb is a unique opportunity to learn about the rich and fascinating history of Cologne and the Roman Empire.

Address: Aachener Str. 1328, 50859 Cologne

4. Hop-on-Hop Off Bus

The Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is a popular way to explore the city of Cologne. This sightseeing tour allows visitors to see the most famous attractions of the city.

The bus has multiple stops throughout the city. Visitors can hop on and off as they please to explore each attraction at their own pace. The bus tour covers many of the city’s most famous landmarks.

The tour also provides an audio guide in multiple languages that explains the history and significance of each attraction.

The buses run on a regular schedule throughout the day, so visitors can easily plan their sightseeing activities around the bus stops.

The Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is a great way to explore Cologne’s many attractions in a short amount of time. The buses are equipped with comfortable seating, and visitors can enjoy great views of the city from the upper deck.

The bus is easily accessible via public transportation, and visitors can purchase tickets online.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Cologne or a seasoned traveler, the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour is a great way to experience the city’s history.

5. Cologne’s Old Town (Altstadt)

If you love history, explore Cologne’s Old Town.

This neighborhood is in the city center and boasts colorful buildings and quaint streets. Try out local breweries, pubs, and restaurants for Kölsch beer and Halver Hahn sandwiches.

In addition to food and drinks, the Old Town has many cultural and historical attractions. Check out the Cologne Cathedral, the Great St. Martin church, and the City Hall’s tower.

Don’t forget to visit the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, built-in 1899, which features the city’s beloved mythical creatures.

The Old Town of Cologne is definately one of the best places to explore during fall in Cologne.

6. Rheinauhafen

If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful neighborhood in Cologne, you have to check out Rheinauhafen. It used to be an old harbor, but now it’s a modern area with houses, businesses, and places to relax.

One of the coolest things about Rheinauhafen are the crane houses, which used to be old crane buildings and are now turned into houses. The mix of old and new styles in the area is really unique.

There are also parks and walking paths that people can enjoy, making it a great place to spend time in.

Whether you’re looking for a place to live, work, or just want to relax, Rheinauhafen is the perfect destination. Don’t miss out on the stunning views of the river and the city. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Cologne in fall.

7. Hohenzollern Bridge

The Hohenzollern Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the Rhine River. The bridge is known for the thousands of padlocks that have been attached to its railings over the years.

The Hohenzollern Bridge was first built in the early 20th century. It underwent significant renovations after being damaged during World War II.

The bridge is now an important transportation hub in the city. It connetcs the central train station with the neighborhoods on the opposite side of the river.

One of the most famous features of the Hohenzollern Bridge is the large number of padlocks that have been attached to its railings.

Couples attach these locks to the bridge as a symbol of their love and commitment to each other, and then throw the key into the river below. This tradition has become very popular over the years, and the bridge is now covered in thousands of padlocks.

The practice of attaching locks to the bridge has become controversial, as the weight of the locks can cause damage to the structure of the bridge. To combat this, the city of Cologne periodically removes the locks and asks visitors not to attach any more.

However, many couples still continue the tradition, and the bridge remains a popular spot for romantic gestures.

In addition to the padlocks, the Hohenzollern Bridge offers spectacular views of the Rhine River. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and enjoy the views.

In summary, the Hohenzollern Bridge is an important and historic landmark in Cologne. It is known for its role in transportation and its romantic tradition of padlocks.

The bridge offers stunning views of the Rhine River, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike.

8. Night of the Cologne Museums

The Long Night of the Cologne Museums takes place every fall, usually in October. It allows you to explore the city’s museums and cultural institutions late into the night.

During the event, participating museums stay open well past their normal hours. You can enjoy special activities and events throughout the night, including live music, art exhibitions, and workshops.

With over 40 participating museums, you can experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and learn more about its history and art.

The event also offers a shuttle bus service and public transportation for you to get around the city and visit different museums.

The Long Night of the Museums is a highly anticipated event in Cologne It is providing a fun and festive atmosphere for people of all ages. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Cologne’s cultural heritage.

9. Chocolate Museum

No matter your age, the Chocolate Museum in Cologne is an exciting place to visit. You’ll get to discover the journey of how chocolate is made, starting from the cocoa bean all the way to a chocolate bar.

The highlight of the museum is the chocolate fountain, where you can dip biscuits in melted chocolate for a delicious treat.

At the museum shop, you can also buy various types of chocolate to take home with you. If you want to unwind, there’s a cozy cafe where you can enjoy different chocolate snacks and drinks, like a warm cup of hot chocolate.

If you’re a chocolate lover or just curious to learn more about it, make sure to check out the Chocolate Museum in Cologne. It’s an excellent destination for anyone who wants to have some fun and experience the world of chocolate.

Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Cologne

10. Romano-Germanic Museum

The Romano-Germanic Museum is a museum that opened its doors in 1974. It’s located on the site of a former Roman villa and features a collection of prehistoric and Roman artifacts.

The museum was created by combining two collections owned by the City of Cologne, the Museum of Prehistory and Early History and the Roman Department of the Wallraf-Richartz Museum.

In the permanent exhibition, you can explore objects that are over 100,000 years old, used by the first people who lived in the area.

The museum also displays things from when people started living in villages and farming the land, as well as during the time when the Romans ruled the area.

Visitors can see various things like a statue of the Emperor Augustus, a big monument, a stone arch, a vast collection of Roman glass, exquisite gold and amber jewelry, and even objects that were buried with people who died many years ago.

If you are a history enthusiast or curious to learn more about ancient Cologne, this museum is an excellent destination to visit in fall.

Address: Am Hof 23, 50667 Cologne

11. Walraff Richartz Museum

If you love art, you should visit the Wallraf Richartz Museum. This museum has an impressive collection of European art from the medieval period to modern times. You can see works by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and van Gogh.

The building was designed by architect Oswald Mathias Ungers, and it provides a beautiful setting for the art. There’s a lot of information about the art, and you can even visit the print room on the second floor.

There are many things to do in Walraff Richartz Museum. You can see the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, visit the café, or the museum shop. On the third floor you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city.

Address: Obenmarspforten 40, 50667 Cologne

12. Museum Ludwig

If you like modern and contemporary art, then the Museum Ludwig in Cologne is a must-see. It has an incredible collection of art from the 20th and 21st centuries and is considered one of the most important art museums in the world.

You’ll find all kinds of art here, including some of the most famous pieces of Pop Art in Europe, a huge collection of Pablo Picasso’s work, incredible pieces from the Russian avant-garde, and a fantastic collection of German Expressionism.

The museum is situated close to the Cologne Cathedral, so it’s easy to find. Come and explore the museum’s many treasures. You will see why it is one of the best places to visit in Cologne.

Address: Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Cologne

13. Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum

The Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum in Cologne is a great place to learn about different cultures from around the world.

The museum has interesting exhibitions about different people and places. It displays a variety of objects that people have used throughout history.

You can also shop for souvenirs in the museum store, or enjoy a drink in the cafe.

If you are interested in art or history, be sure to check out the Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum!

Address: Cäcilienstraße 29-33, 50676 Cologne

14. German Sport & Olympic Museum

For people who love sports, the German Sport & Olympic Museum is an exciting destination to explore. The museum is located in an old customs hall, right next to the Rhine river.

Visitors can learn about the history of sports from ancient Greece to the present day here. There are 2,000 objects and installations that show the different parts of sports.

There are also fun activities for visitors to try. The museum’s roof offers great views over the Rhine river.

The museum also offers educational programs, such as guided tours, team-building activities, and fun parties for children.

It is a perfect spot for families to spend quality time together and for sports enthusiasts.

Address: Im Zollhafen 1, 50678 Cologne

15. NS-Documentation Center

If you want to do something interesting in Cologne, you should visit the NS Documentation Center. There, you can discover the history of Germany during the time when the Nazis ruled from 1933 to 1945.

You will be able to see exhibits that highlight the efforts of those who fought back against the Nazis and resistance movements.

The center has photographs, documents, and other materials that help to give you a better understanding of what it was like to live in Germany during this time in history.

It’s an ideal destination for those who want to learn more about this period.

Address: Appellhofplatz 23-25, 50667 Cologne

16. Time Ride

Are you looking for an exciting adventure through time in Cologne? Come join TimeRide and experience what it was like to live in the city during the 1920s.

You’ll get to spend 45 minutes exploring various locations while learning about the history of Cologne.

First, you’ll visit a cinema and watch a short film that showcases how Cologne changed during the 1920s. Then, you’ll travel to a hatter’s store, where you can learn about the fashion trends from that era.

Finally, you’ll hop on a virtual ride in Cologne’s first electric streetcar, where you can see the city’s 360-degree view before it was destroyed during World War II.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply want to try something different, time traveling with TimeRide is a fantastic activity to do in Cologne!

Address: Alter Markt 36-42, 50667Cologne

17. Schildergasse & Hohe Straße

To have a great shopping experience, visit Hohe Straße and Schildergasse.

Hohe Straße is a vintage shopping destination that offers a wide range of shopping options.

Schildergasse, which dates back to the Roman era, is one of Europe’s busiest shopping streets, featuring various shops selling gifts, clothes, and souvenirs.

To make the most of your shopping experience, these two streets are a must-visit destination.

18. Kalk Arcaden

Kalk Arcaden is a big shopping center in Cologne where you can buy clothes, shoes, electronics, and other things. It has many different stores, including popular ones like H&M, Esprit, and Media Markt.

During sales, you can find many good deals and discounts in the stores.

The shopping center also has places to eat and drink. There are cafes and restaurants, where you can grab a quick snack or sit down for a full meal.

If you want to spend some time indoors and do some shopping, Kalk Arcaden is a good place to go. It’s easily accessible by public transportation and has a big parking garage if you’re coming by car.

Address: Kalker Hauptstraße 55, 51103 Cologne

19. Rhein Center

Rhein Center is a large shopping mall in the district of Weiden. Many people go there when they want to shop for clothes, electronics, toys, and other items.

The mall has many different stores, including famous international brands like Adidas, Levi’s, and H&M. You can find a variety of products for all ages and preferences, from casual wear to luxury goods.

There are also plenty of places to eat and drink at Rhein Center. You can quickly grab a snack or sit down for a full meal at one of the many restaurants or cafes.

Rhein Center is easy to get to by public transportation and has a big parking garage if you’re coming by car. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it is definitely worth visiting if you’re in Cologne.

Address: Aachener Str. 1253, 50858 Cologne

20. Claudius Therme

If you need to relax and take a break, you should go to Claudius Therme.

Claudius Therme is a beautiful thermal bath in Rheinpark. You can enjoy different types of pools, saunas, steam rooms, and quiet areas. You can also float weightlessly in a pool filled with salt from the Dead Sea.

If you want to be even more pampered, you can book massages and beauty treatments.

Claudius Therme is the perfect place to go to in Cologne in autumn. Whether you need to take a break from your daily routine or want to treat yourself, visit Claudius Therme.

Address: Sachsenbergstraße 1, 50679 Cologne

21. Neptunbad

Neptunbad is a special bathhouse in Cologne where you can relax and feel good.

There’s one thing you need to know before going there: to use the bath you will have to be naked. There are no separate changing rooms for men and women.

Inside Neptunbad, you can enjoy different types of saunas, like Finnish and Roman saunas, and a steam room. If you want to cool down, you can take a swim in the indoor or outdoor pools.

The outside area is made like a Japanese garden. You can also sit and relax on a terrace while eating or drinking something.

It might feel strange at first, but being naked is a normal part of the Neptun Bad experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend your day, Neptunbad is a great place to visit. It is definately one of the best things to do in Cologne in fall.

Address: Neptunplatz 1, 50823 Cologne

22. Cologne Zoo

The Cologne Zoo is a famous destination where you can see a diverse range of animals from around the world.

It is home to more than 7,000 animals from 600 different species, some of which are rare and endangered.

The zoo provides excellent living arrangements for the animals and ensures they are well-cared for.

Visitors can engage in various activities, such as guided tours, animal shows, and interactive exhibits. Additionally, there are food options, shopping areas, and picnic spots, making it an excellent place for a day trip with family and friends.

If you are an animal lover or looking for a fun and educational adventure, make sure to visit the Cologne Zoo when you’re in the area.

Address: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Cologne

23. Oktoberfest

In fall, travelers to Cologne can enjoy Oktoberfest. Although beeing smaller than the one in Munich the festival is still a great way to experience German traditions.

Held at South Stadium from late September to early October, the festival has lively music, food, and drinks, including local beer. Visitors can savor traditional Bavarian food like sausages and pretzels, and enjoy German music played by popular singers and bands.

People often dress up in Bavarian costumes, making it an exciting cultural experience.

This festival attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a place to meet new people, have fun with friends and family, and immerse yourself in German culture.

If you are looking for Germans in leather pants and dirndle in Cologne, Oktoberfest may be the only occasion you will see them.

Address: Vorgebirgstraße, 50677 Cologne

24. Belgian Quarter

The Belgian Quarter is a popular and trendy area in Cologne, found between Aachenerstraße and Friesenplatz. It’s well-known for its lively atmosphere and places to hang out, such as coffee shops, bars, and restaurants.

You can walk around and enjoy looking at the unique buildings and try tasty food. The buildings have different styles, and the streets have names from cities in Belgium.

The Belgian Quarter is also home to art, theater, and cultural places, making it a favorite for both tourists and people who live in Cologne.

If you like history, cool buildings, or having fun, you should go to the Belgian Quarter when you visit Cologne.

25. Carnival (Sessionseröffnung)

Every year, on November 11 at 11:11 am, people in Cologne come together to celebrate the beginning of the carnival season. This event is called the “sessionseröffnung” or the opening session.

During the carnival season, which lasts from November to February, people in Cologne dress up in costumes, go to parties, and have a lot of fun. But before the real partying can begin, the season must be officially declared open.

The sessionseröffnung takes place on the Alter Markt, a central square in Cologne. People gather here to watch the traditional ceremony, which involves the crowning of the carnival prince and princess. The newly crowned carnival royalty then lead the crowds in a big party.

There are also many carnival bands that perform on the Alter Markt during the sessionseröffnung. People dance and sing along to the music in their costumes, which range from funny to creative to traditional.

The atmosphere on the Alter Markt is exciting, with many people laughing and having a good time. It’s a great opportunity to experience Cologne’s unique carnival culture and have fun with friends and family.

If you’re ever in Cologne in November, make sure to check out the sessionseröffnung on the Alter Markt. It’s a great way to kick off the carnival season and enjoy the festive spirit of the city.

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