30 Things to Do in Cologne on Sunday

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WONDERING WHAT TO DO IN COLOGNE ON SUNDAY?

You are in the right place! I live in Cologne and I’m excited to share with you the wonders that await on a Sunday.

While it’s true that Germany observes a traditional day of rest, with shops closed across the country, fear not! Cologne has a wealth of captivating attractions and activities that will keep you engaged and entertained throughout the day.

So, put on your walking shoes, open your minds to new experiences, and join me on a journey through the many incredible things to see and do in Cologne on a Sunday.

BEFORE YOU GO…..

If you are looking to make the most out of your experience in Cologne, the KölnCard is the ultimate tip. This card allows you to explore Cologne while saving money in the process.

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.

30 THINGS TO DO IN COLOGNE ON SUNDAY

Even though the shops are closed, there are plenty of things you can do on a Sunday in Cologne. The following activities are the most popular choices.

1. Visit Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Cologne. This iconic landmark is open on Sundays from 6 am to 8 pm, allowing ample time to explore its grandeur.

With its towering spires and rich history, the cathedral captivates visitors from all over the world.

Inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and remarkable works of art. For a truly unforgettable experience, don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of the cathedral’s towers, where breathtaking views of the city await.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply in awe of magnificent structures, the Cologne Cathedral is a good place to go to when in Cologne on Sunday.

2. Stroll Cologne’s Old Town

Strolling Cologne’s Old Town is another fantastiv activity when in Cologne on Sunday.

Located in the heart of the city, this neighborhood boasts charming streets filled with colorful, historic buildings. You’ll find an array of delightful places to grab a bite or a drink, including breweries, pubs, and restaurants serving up Kölsch beer and Halver Hahn sandwiches.

Beyond the culinary delights, the Old Town offers a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. Don’t miss the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, the charming Great St. Martin church, and the iconic tower of the historic City Hall.

Make sure to visit the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen on Am Hof-Street, a captivating fountain dating back to 1899 featuring the beloved mythical creatures of Cologne, the Heinzelmännchen.

3. Feel the love at Hohenzollern Bridge

One of the things you can do on a Sunday in Cologne is cross the Hohenzollern Bridge.

This bridge is not only a historic landmark but also a symbol of love. People from all over the world come here to put locks on the railings of the bridge to show their love for each other. These locks come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, and some even have special words or dates engraved on them.

The love locks on the Hohenzollern Bridge have become a famous attraction in Cologne. Visitors can come here to see the thousands of locks and even add their own to the collection.

From the bridge, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine river, making it a great place for a romantic walk.

4. Explore Cologne’s Historic Churches

Did you know that Cologne is home to 12 Romanesque churches? And the best part is, you can visit these churches on a Sunday because they are open!

These buildings are not only beautiful but also have incredible historical significance. They were constructed between the 10th and 13th centuries and have stood the test of time.

Each church has its own unique design and story to tell. Many of them have gorgeous stained-glass windows, ornate altars, and impressive works of art.

You won’t want to miss visiting some of the most famous churches, such as St. Maria im Kapitol, St. Gereon, and St. Aposteln.

Visiting these churches on a Sunday is an awesome way to immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich history and culture.

5. Take the Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore Cologne on a Sunday, the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is a great idea! This special bus tour is loved by many visitors because it lets you see the most famous attractions in the city.

The bus has many stops all around Cologne. You can get on and off the bus whenever you want to explore each attraction at your own speed. The bus tour covers lots of famous places in the city.

To help you learn about each attraction, there’s an audio guide in different languages. It tells you about the history and importance of each place.

The buses run on a schedule throughout the day, so it’s easy to plan your sightseeing activities around the bus stops.

The Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is a great way to see many of Cologne’s attractions in a short time. The buses have comfy seats, and from the top deck, you can enjoy amazing views of the city.

You can easily reach the bus using public transportation, and you can buy tickets online.

Whether you’re visiting Cologne for the first time or you’ve been there before, the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus tour is a fantastic way to discover the city’s history.

6. Take a Boat Trip

Taking a boat tour is a fantastic activity to do in Cologne on a Sunday. There are several different tours available that you can book.

Exploring the city from the water allows you to see its beauty from a unique perspective. You can glide along the Rhine River, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Cologne Cathedral and the Hohenzollern Bridge.

The boat tours offer a relaxing and enjoyable experience as you soak in the picturesque views and learn about the city’s history and culture from the knowledgeable guides on board.

Whether you prefer a short sightseeing tour or a longer cruise, a boat tour on a Sunday is a great way to spend your day in Cologne.

7. Stroll the Rheinauhafen

Rheinauhafen is a neighborhood located by the Rhine River. What’s great is that you can visit there on Sundays! It used to be an old harbor, but now it has become a modern neighborhood with houses, businesses, and places where you can unwind.

One of the special things about Rheinauhafen is the “kranhäuser” (crane houses). These are old crane buildings that have been transformed into houses. They mix old and new styles, which makes the area look really cool and unique.

You’ll also find parks and walking paths in Rheinauhafen. They provide a lovely space for people to enjoy and make the neighborhood a wonderful place to live, work, and relax.

Rheinauhafen is definitely worth visiting because of the stunning views it offers of the river and the city. It’s one of the best things you can do in Cologne, especially on a Sunday!

8. Taste Chocolate at Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a super fun place to visit, no matter your age. The great news is that you can go there on Sundays too! The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm.

At the museum, you can learn all about how chocolate is made, starting from the bean to the delicious bar.

The most exciting part of the museum is the chocolate fountain. You can dip biscuits into the melted chocolate and enjoy a truly tasty treat.

If you want to take some chocolate home with you, there’s a shop in the museum where you can buy different kinds of chocolate.

For a relaxing time, there’s also a cafe where you can indulge in various chocolate snacks and drinks, like hot chocolate.

If you’re a chocolate lover or simply curious to learn more about it, the Chocolate Museum in Cologne is definitely a place you should visit.

9. Visit Museum Ludwig

If you’re a fan of modern and contemporary art, then you absolutely have to visit the Museum Ludwig in Cologne. The best part is that you can visit it on Sundays too!

This museum has an amazing collection of art from the 20th and 21st centuries. It’s considered one of the most important art museums in the whole world!

You’ll discover all kinds of art here, including famous Pop Art pieces from Europe, a huge collection of Pablo Picasso’s artwork, incredible pieces from the Russian avant-garde, and an amazing collection of German Expressionism.

The museum is conveniently located near the Cologne Cathedral, so it’s easy to find. Come and explore the many treasures this museum holds. You’ll understand why it’s one of the best places to visit in Cologne on Sunday!

10. Visit Romano-Germanic Museum

The Romano-Germanic Museum is a great place to visit in Cologne, especially on Sundays! The museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm, so you have plenty of time to explore.

It opened in 1974 and is located on the site of an old Roman villa. Inside, you’ll find a collection of artifacts from the Roman era and prehistoric times.

The museum is a combination of two collections that belonged to the City of Cologne. These collections were the Museum of Prehistory and Early History and the Roman Department of the Wallraf-Richartz Museum.

In the museum’s permanent exhibition, you can see things that are as old as 100,000 years! These items date back to when people first lived in the area. You’ll find tools and pottery used by hunters and gatherers, which are among the oldest artifacts.

The museum also showcases objects from the time when people started living in villages, farming the land, and when the Romans took control of the area.

During your visit, you can see fascinating things like a statue of Emperor Augustus, impressive monuments, stone arches, Roman glass, beautiful jewelry made of gold and amber, and even artifacts buried with people who lived long ago.

If you’re interested in history or simply want to learn more about ancient Cologne, the Romano-Germanic Museum is a must-visit.

11. Visit ODYSSEUM

Odysseum in Cologne is an amazing adventure museum that you can visit on Sundays too! It’s open from 10 am to 8 pm, so you have plenty of time to enjoy your visit.

This museum is all about offering a special and immersive experience for people of all ages. With a big exhibition area of around 5,500 square meters, there are lots of interactive stations and programs that make science easy to understand and fun for everyone.

At Odysseum, you can take part in various activities that let you experience science in a super exciting way. The interactive exhibits cover a wide range of interesting topics and provide a unique chance to learn, especially for families with kids. You won’t find an experience like this in any other museum.

In summary, Odysseum is a must-visit place in Cologne if you want to explore the wonders of science and technology in a fun and interactive way.

12. Embark on a Journey into the Past at Time Ride

Join TimeRide for an exciting journey through history and experience what it was like to be in Cologne in the 1920s.

You’ll spend 45 minutes traveling through different places and learning about the history of the city.

At the cinema, you’ll watch a short film that shows how Cologne changed during the 1920s. Then, you’ll visit a hatter’s store where you’ll learn about fashion from that time.

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

If you’re interested in history or just want to try something different, traveling through time with TimeRide is a great thing to do in Cologne on Sunday.

13. Stroll along Rhine Boulevard

The Rhine Boulevard is a fantastic place to take a stroll on Sundays!

You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the path that runs alongside the Rhine River, and it offers a breathtaking view of the city and the river. One of the main highlights is the stunning view of the big and famous Cologne Cathedral.

Along the Boulevard, you’ll find many restaurants, cafes, and places to hang out, making it a lively and enjoyable spot. There are also plenty of parks and green spaces where you can take a breath of fresh air and relax.

People love to walk, run, bike, or have picnics along the Boulevard. You can even take a boat ride to explore the sights or simply sit and watch the world go by.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the city or a fun evening out, the Rhine Boulevard has everything you need. It’s a perfect place to spend your Sundays!

14. Stroll the Botanical Garden

Cologne Flora is a wonderful garden that you can visit on Sundays too! It’s open from 8 am to 9 pm.

In this special garden, you’ll find a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers from many different countries. You can take a walk and see them all. It’s not just a beautiful place, but also a fun spot for families. There are play areas for kids and enjoyable learning programs.

If you have a love for nature, flowers, or simply want a peaceful and serene place to spend time, Cologne Flora is an excellent choice for everyone!

15. Visit the Zoo

The Cologne Zoo is a fantastic place to visit, and the good news is that you can go there on Sundays too! It’s open from 9 am to 6 pm.

At the zoo, you can see a wide variety of animals from all around the world. With over 7,000 animals from 600 different species, including some rare and endangered ones, it’s an incredible experience. The zoo takes excellent care of all the animals, ensuring they have wonderful habitats.

During the summer, there’s a lot to do at the zoo. You can take tours, watch animal shows, and enjoy interactive exhibits. There are also food stalls, shops, and picnic areas, making it a perfect day trip for families and friends.

If you have a love for animals or simply want to have a fun and educational experience, be sure to visit the Cologne Zoo when you’re in town.

16. Relax at Aachener Weiher Pond

The Aachener Weiher pond is a popular destination in Cologne, especially on Sundays! It’s a man-made lake located near the university. The pond is about four hectares in size and is surrounded by grassy fields.

It’s situated close to the Museum of East Asian Art and got its name from Aachener Street, which has been there since ancient Roman times. Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed in the pond.

On sunny days, many young people, especially students, come to the pond to soak up the sun, have a barbecue, and spend time with friends. There is even a small play area for kids.

The park surrounding the pond has gentle hills and was constructed using the rubble from the city after World War II.

If you enjoy basking in the sun or having picnics, visiting the Aachener Weiher pond is one of the best activities to do in Cologne during the summer!

17. Stroll Green Belt

The Cologne Green Belt is a wonderful place to visit, especially on Sundays! It’s a collection of parks and green areas that surround the city. Long ago, it was created from old fortifications and now it’s split into two parts.

The Inner Green Belt covers neighborhoods like Riehl, Mauenheim, and Ehrenfeld. It also includes some university campuses. Here, you can see interesting buildings nestled in the midst of nature. It’s a cool sight to behold!

The Outer Green Belt is perfect for outdoor activities such as biking, walking, and canoeing. You can get some exercise, relax, or have a picnic or barbecue with your friends and family.

If you’re seeking a peaceful place, you can explore the green spaces along the Rhine River or take the kids to the Merheimer Heide. The Poller Wiesen parks offer breathtaking views of the city and the Cathedral. They are often the venue for parties and events too!

Whether you want to exercise, relax, or simply enjoy some stunning views, the Cologne Green Belt is the perfect place to be on a Sunday!

18. Walk around Adenauer Weiher

The Adenauer Weiher is a lovely lake near the RheinEnergieStadion. It’s a perfect destination for a Sunday outing!

During home games of the 1. FC Cologne soccer team, you can hear the fan songs coming from the lake. When there are no games, it’s a peaceful place to take a leisurely walk or go for a jog.

There’s a restaurant called Club Astoria with a stunning view of the impressive lake. The lake is part of the larger Stadtwald (city forest) and is a popular spot for enjoying fresh air and getting some exercise.

The lake was created in the 1920s during the expansion of the city forest and was named after the former mayor of the city, Konrad Adenauer. It’s a popular spot for jogging, biking, and there are nearby meadows to explore.

If you’re seeking some nature and relaxation, the Adenauer Weiher is a nice place to visit in Cologne on Sunday.

19. Visit Melatenfriedhof Cemetry

Melatenfriedhof is the biggest cemetery in Cologne, and it’s really huge, covering an area of 435,000 square meters! It has a staggering 55,540 graves.

Even though it’s a burial ground, it’s also a popular attraction that you can visit for free when you’re in the city.

The cemetery is famous for its lovely park-like surroundings and stunning funerary art. It’s the final resting place for many important people, such as politicians, artists, and writers.

You’ll find some graves decorated with intricate sculptures and monuments, which makes it an intriguing place to explore, especially if you’re interested in history or art.

20. Enjoy a Refreshing Beverage at Volksgarten Beergarden

Volksgarten is a fantastic park in the Volksgarten Quarter that is loved by both locals and visitors. It’s a perfect destination for a Sunday outing!

One of the highlights of the park is its big beer garden. You can sit back and relax, enjoying a refreshing drink in the warm sunshine.

There’s also a beautiful pond in the park where you can take a slow boat ride and admire the views from the water. The pond is surrounded by lush plants and pretty flowers, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

21. Discover Street Art in Ehrenfeld

Ehrenfeld is an awesome district in Cologne that you can explore on Sundays too! While it may be a bit farther from the main attractions, Ehrenfeld adds a unique and special flavor to the city.

One of the highlights of Ehrenfeld is its vibrant graffiti, vintage stores, trendy cafes, and amazing street art.

In fact, there’s a street art route in Ehrenfeld that stretches over 6 kilometers. It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete if you walk at a relaxed pace. The route begins at Liebigstraße and ends at Leyendeckerstraße, showcasing the thriving street art culture of the area.

22. Roller skating at Rollersclub Cologne

Roller skating at Rollersclub Cologne is a fantastic experience for the whole family. It’s even possible to enjoy it on a Sunday, as the Rollersclub is open from 12 pm to 8 pm on Sundays.

The best part is that if you don’t have roller skates, you can rent them on-site for a reasonable price of just €5 per visit.

23. Play 3D Mini Golf

3D Mini Golf in Cologne is an incredibly fun activity that you can enjoy on Sundays too! It’s open from 11 am to 9 pm.

This unique indoor mini-golf experience takes place in a neon-lit, 3D environment. It’s visually stunning and super entertaining. The mini-golf course has 18 holes, each offering its own special challenge, all set within a creatively designed 3D environment.

You will absolutely love this immersive experience as you make you way through the course, aiming for that elusive hole-in-one.

If you’re searching for a fun and unique activity to enjoy on Sunday, 3D Mini Golf in Cologne is definitely worth a visit.

24. Join a Guided Bike Tour

No idea what to do in Cologne on Sunday? Why not join a guided bike tour along the Rhine river to explore famous places in Cologne?

You’ll be provided with a bike and start riding to visit the renowned Cologne Cathedral and other attractions. You can take your time, pause for pictures, and have a pleasant ride in a small group.

Your guide will be available to assist you and address any inquiries you may have. If you enjoy biking, this is an excellent summer activity to partake in while in Cologne.

25. Relax at Neptunbad

If you’re searching for a special and relaxing experience in Cologne, Neptunbad is a must-visit place, and the good news is that you can go there on Sundays too!

This unique bathhouse allows visitors to indulge in relaxation while experiencing a tradition of German wellness culture.

Before you go, there’s an important thing to know: Neptunbad is a clothing-optional establishment. This means that visitors need to undress to use the baths, and there are no separate changing areas for men and women. It might feel unusual at first, but it’s all part of the experience.

Once inside, you can enjoy various saunas, such as Finnish and Roman-style, as well as a steam room. There are both indoor and outdoor pools, providing a refreshing way to cool off. The outside area is designed like a serene Japanese garden.

You can even relax on the terrace while enjoying a delicious meal or a refreshing drink.

Neptunbad is the perfect place to spend a day in Cologne, offering a truly unique experience to add to your travel itinerary.

26. Unwind at Claudius Therme

Claudius Therme, one of Europe’s most beautiful thermal baths, is a great place to visit on Sundays! It’s open from 9 am to 12 pm.

Located in a park near Rhine Boulevard, Claudius Therme offers many things to help you relax. You can enjoy swimming pools, rooms with high temperatures for sweating, and peaceful spots to just unwind.

They even have a special pool filled with salt from the Dead Sea, where you can float and feel like you’re weightless. If you want some extra pampering, they also offer massages and beauty treatments.

So, if you’re feeling stressed and in need of a break, Claudius Therme is the perfect place for you!

27. Enjoy a Cable Car Ride

The Cable Car is a unique and fun way to discover Cologne from high up in the sky. The best part is that you can enjoy this experience on Sundays! It operates from April to October, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

During the 7-minute ride, you’ll be taken from Claudius Therme to the Cologne Zoo. From the cable car, you’ll have a fantastic view of the Rhine River and the city, giving you a different perspective.

This attraction is not just for tourists, but also a convenient mode of transportation to explore the Rheinpark and the surrounding area. The cabins are comfortable and modern, making it a must-try experience for anyone visiting the city.

28. Watch a Movie at the Cinema

When was the last time you went to the cinema? So why not make it a movie day on Sunday in Cologne?

Many cinemas in Cologne regularly offer screenings in their original language versions. Highly recommended are the Residenz cinema, the Cinedom in MediaPark, and the Metropolis at Ebertplatz.

29. Visit the World Heritage Site Brühl Palaces

Brühl is a pretty town close to Cologne. It has many interesting things to see and do.

One of the best places to visit in Brühl is the Brühl Palaces. These beautiful palaces, which were once the home of the Archbishop of Cologne, are recognized as a world heritage site.

Inside the palaces, you can wander around and admire the beautiful architecture. Outside, there are lovely gardens with fancy fountains, statues, and well-kept lawns.

If you’re in Cologne on a Sunday, it’s definitely worth taking a trip to Brühl and exploring the magnificent Brühl Palaces.

30. Ride a Roller Coaster at Phantasia Land

Phantasia Land, located near Cologne, is a captivating amusement park that is definitely worth a visit, despite the expected Sunday crowds. It offers a delightful experience for the entire family.

The park boasts an array of thrilling rides, captivating attractions, and picturesque scenery. Each area within the park showcases unique themes, ranging from an African safari to an enchanting world of fantasy, complete with mind-boggling roller coasters.

In addition to the exhilarating rides, Phantasia Land also offers a variety of shows, performances, and engaging activities. This makes it an ideal destination for families and individuals seeking excitement and entertainment.

Whether you’re looking to spend a fun-filled day with your loved ones or simply indulge in some playful enjoyment, Phantasia Land stands out as one of the top attractions in Cologne.

WHAT TO DO IN COLOGNE ON SUNDAY – FINAL THOUGHTS

If you come from another country, you might be surprised. Most shops in Germany are actually closed on Sundays. So, unfortunately, you can’t go on extensive shopping trips.

But don’t worry, there are still many things you can do on a Sunday in Cologne. You can visit churches, museums or the zoo. Additionally, Cologne offers a variety of different leisure activities for all tastes and ages.

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