Is Cologne Worth Visiting?

Cologne is a stunning city that boasts remarkable landmarks, delectable eateries, and a lively cultural scene. But if you’re planning a trip to Europe, you might be asking yourself if it’s worth visiting Cologne.

As a Cologne native, I know the ins and outs of this city.

Let me tell you, this city has so much to offer. The Cologne Cathedral alone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is reason enough to visit. Plus, there are numerous museums to explore and a diverse culinary landscape featuring both traditional German fare and international cuisine.

If you’re considering a visit to Cologne, you may be curious about what to expect and whether it’s worth the trip. So, as a local, let me share some insights to help you make your decision.

Best reasons to visit Cologne

With a history spanning over two millennia, Cologne is a city that is worth a visit. Here are some of the compelling reasons why:

Iconic Landmarks

One of the biggest draws for tourists to Cologne is the abundance of iconic landmarks throughout the city. Most people will have heared of the famous Cologne Cathedral. .

A visit to the Cologne Cathedral is an awe-inspiring experience. Nestled in the heart of the city, the cathedral’s grandeur and impressive architecture are breathtaking. It’s no wonder that it has earned the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While exploring the cathedral, you can even climb to the top of one of its towers for a stunning panoramic view of the city.

But that’s not all. Cologne is home to numerous other historic and cultural landmarks that are well worth a visit. These landmarks include the medieval Old Town, the Great St. Martin Church, and the Hohenzollern Bridge.

History and Culture

Cologne is a city with a captivating history that dates back to Roman times. Today, it is a vibrant cultural hub, filled with galleries, museums, and a calendar full of cultural events. The city’s Roman influence can still be seen. Particularly the 12 large Romanesque churches and a well-preserved Roman tomb are examples of the Roman era.

Cologne is also renowned for its extraordinary museum scene, featuring several internationally acclaimed museums. For those interested in Roman history, the Romano Germanic Museum boasts fascinating artifacts. Meanwhile, the Museum Ludwig houses the largest collection of Pop Art outside of the United States.

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Museum is a must-visit destination, where visitors can indulge in tasting and purchasing chocolate.

The Culinary Scene

The culinary scene of Cologne is a vibrant and diverse experience that caters to every taste and preference.

The city is renowned for its several breweries, where visitors can indulge in Kölsch beer and traditional dishes such as Halver Hahn and Rheinischer Sauerbraten.

In addition to German cuisine, Cologne also boasts several international restaurants, including a range of Italian restaurants. Visitors can savor authentic Italian pizza and pasta at establishments such a Trattoria Amalfi . The Restaurant Belgischer Hof in the Belgian Quarter serves an array of Belgian dishes, while the area near Eigelstein Gate is home to a variety of Turkish restaurants.

Those craving Asian cuisine can delight in the flavors of Indonesia, China, Japan, and Korea. With such a vast range of culinary options, Cologne is a destination that promises to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

Cologne is a walkable City

Cologne renowned for its walkability and abundance of sights in the downtown area.

You can take a leisurely stroll through the city center. Within minutes you will discover fascinating landmarks such as the Cologne Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Romanesque church of St. Gereon.

The city center also boasts an impressive collection of museums, including the Romano-Germanic Museum, the Ludwig Museum, and the Chocolate Museum. Visitors can also explore the Old Town, with its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and historic squares.

Aside from sightseeing, Cologne’s downtown area offers an array of restaurants, cafes, and shops.

With so much to see and do, Cologne is a city that can be easily explored on foot and promises to leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

You can relax along the river

Visiting Cologne offers another compelling reason: the opportunity to witness the beauty of the Rhine river and its surroundings. This may not have crossed your mind, but it is a place abundant in nature’s splendor and activities.

A river cruise is an excellent way to experience the city from a fresh perspective and engage in sightseeing while relaxing. The Rhine river area also presents a chance to stroll along the promenade, a favored pastime among Cologne’s residents.

Once there, you’ll appreciate the serene ambiance and laid-back vibe of the promenade. Several cafes, restaurants, and bars dot the path, providing you with a variety of options to choose from.

Best activities that make Cologne worth visiting

Cologne is a vibrant and historical city. It boasts an impressive array of activities that make it worth a visit.

Let’s explore some of the best activities that make Cologne worth visiting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, there’s something for everyone in this captivating city.

1. Visit Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a stunning church that captivates visitors from all around the world. Its two towering spires make it a distinctive landmark that can be seen from almost every corner of the city.

This magnificent cathedral was built over six centuries, from the 1200s to the 1800s. Its awe-inspiring interior is adorned with intricate carvings, exquisite stained glass windows, and valuable works of art, such as the 10th-century Gero-Kreuz crucifix, the black marble high altar, and the gilded shrine of the Three Kings.

For a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, visitors can climb to the top of one of the towers. Although the cathedral was damaged during World War II, it has since been restored to its former glory.

Today, the cathedral continues to attract tourists who are interested in history, architecture, or those who simply want to admire the beauty of Cologne.

2. Take the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

The Hop-On Hop-Off tour in Cologne is a fun and convenient way to explore the city.

The tour starts at Burgmauer and goes all the way to Friesenplatz, with many stops along the way.

You can hop on and off the bus whenever you want to check out a new attraction or grab a bite to eat.

When the weather is nice, you’ll be riding in an open-air double-decker bus, what makes the tour one of the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

3. Stroll the Old Town

Cologne’s Old Town is a must-visit neighborhood, particularly if you’re fascinated by history. Situated in the city center, it is renowned for its charming narrow streets adorned with colorful buildings. This area is also home to several pubs, breweries, and restaurants that offer a delectable taste of the local cuisine, including Kölsch beer and Halver Hahn sandwiches.

Beyond its culinary delights, the Old Town boasts significant cultural and historical landmarks that are worth exploring. Be sure to marvel at the impressive Cologne Cathedral, the Great St. Martin Romanesque church, and the historic City Hall tower.

Moreover, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen on Am Hof-Street, which was built in 1899 and features the mythical creatures of Cologne, the Heinzelmännchen.

Regardless of whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or an avid explorer, the Old Town in Cologne is a destination that should not be missed. It is a place where past and present merge to offer an unforgettable experience.

4. Go shopping at Hohe Straße and Schildergasse

When planning a trip to Cologne, Hohe Straße and Schildergasse are two shopping destinations that you won’t want to miss.

Hohe Straße is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare with an array of shops, restaurants, and cafes. As one of the oldest shopping areas in the city, it boasts a mix of high-end fashion boutiques and more affordable stores.

Schildergasse, on the other hand, is steeped in even more history, dating all the way back to ancient Roman times. It’s renowned as one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe, and offers a vast array of shops ranging from large department stores to small, specialty shops selling unique gifts, clothing, and souvenirs.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the bustling atmosphere of the city or simply take in the sights, a visit to these two streets is an absolute must.

5. Visit Rheinauhafen

Rheinauhafen is a neighborhood in Cologne located on the banks of the Rhine River.

It was once an old harbor, but has now been transformed into a modern, mixed-use development with residential, commercial, and leisure spaces.

The area features unique architecture, including the famous crane houses, which are old crane buildings that have been transformed into residential buildings. These crane houses blend old and new styles, creating a visually appealing and diverse urban environment.

There are also parks and promenades for people to enjoy, making Rheinauhafen a great place to live, work, and relax.

Since Rheinauhafen is offering beautiful views of the river and the city, it is absolutely worth visiting and therefore among the best things to do in Cologne in spring.

6. Cross Hohenzollern Bridge

The Hohenzollern Bridge is renowned for its adorned locks that draw couples from all corners of the world. These locks are fastened onto the bridge’s railings and vary in size, shape, and color. Some of them even bear personalized engravings like names, dates, or heartfelt messages.

Over time, these locks have grown to represent an enduring symbol of love, becoming a widely popular tourist attraction. Visitors can admire the vast collection of locks, snap pictures, and even add their own lock to the bridge.

Regardless of whether you’re a hopeless romantic or simply intrigued by the tradition, a visit to the Hohenzollern Bridge to witness these symbols of love is highly recommended.

7. Stroll along Rheinboulevard

The Rhine Boulevard is a path along the Rhine River that has a gorgeous view of the city and the river. It’s well-known for the stunning view of the big and famous Cologne Cathedral.

There are many restaurants, cafes, and places to hang out along the Boulevard, so it’s always lively and fun. There are also many parks and green spaces to breathe in fresh air and relax.

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

8. Enjoy the atmosphere of Belgian Quarter

If you’re planning to visit Cologne, don’t miss out on exploring the Belgian Quarter, which boasts a diverse range of architectural styles. The streets are named after Belgian cities, such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Maastricht, adding to the area’s charm.

In addition to its stunning buildings, the Belgian Quarter is a hub for arts and culture, attracting both locals and tourists alike. With plenty of coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, the district is known for its vibrant ambiance and exciting nightlife.

Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a foodie, a visit to the Belgian Quarter is a must-do activity in Cologne.

9. Have a cup of Glühwein at the Christmas Markets

When visiting Cologne in December, experience the charm of the holiday season by visiting one of the renowned Christmas markets. This long-standing tradition has attracted visitors from around the globe for decades.

Spread throughout the city, each market boasts its own unique character, with the largest and most famous located in front of the Cologne Cathedral. Here, you’ll find over 160 stalls offering an array of handmade crafts, decorations, and delectable food and drink, including the delightful scents of roasted chestnuts, glühwein, and gingerbread cookies.

For a more intimate experience, visit the Alter Markt or Neumarkt markets, which offer a cozier atmosphere and traditional handicrafts, locally-made goods, and warm drinks and food to enjoy. The Alter Markt is especially charming with its brightly lit carousel and decorated Christmas tree.

No trip to the Cologne Christmas markets is complete without indulging in some traditional treats like hot waffles or crepes topped with Nutella and the German Christmas market drink Glühwein.

Open from late November to late December, the festive atmosphere of the Cologne Christmas markets is sure to leave a lasting impression. With millions of visitors each year, it’s no wonder the markets are a must-see attraction.

10. Ride rollercoasters at Phantasia Land

Phantasia Land is a fun amusement park near Cologne. It’s a great place to spend a day with friends and family.

The park has exciting rides, attractions, and pretty scenery. There are different areas with different themes, like a safari in Africa or a magical world of fantasy with crazy roller coasters.

There are also shows, performances, and activities to enjoy, making it a good place for families and people who like excitement.

If you want to have a fun day out, Phantasia Land is one of the activities that make it worth visiting Cologne.

What you probably won’t like about Cologne

The crowds

Like several other prominent European cities, Cologne experiences significant crowds during peak season. The city is a favored destination for both international and German tourists, resulting in overcrowding, particularly during summer.

To circumvent lengthy queues and extended waiting times at attractions, it is crucial to pre-book your tours and activities.

It can be dirty

As a resident of Cologne, it is difficult to admit that my city falls short in terms of cleanliness when compared to other German cities like Hamburg and Munich. Despite its many attractions and cultural landmarks, Cologne still struggles to maintain the same level of cleanliness and tidiness as its counterparts.

While it is not without its charms, it is important to acknowledge the areas where improvement is needed to ensure a better quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

How many days in Cologne?

If you’re considering a visit to Cologne, you might be curious about the amount of time you should allot to experience the city’s prominent landmarks and soak in its culture and atmosphere.

As a Cologne local, I’d recommend spending at least two days to discover the central downtown area. However, Cologne has so much more to offer. If you want to truly delve into the city’s essence, it would be advisable to stay for three to four days.

For a detailed day-to-day plan, please refer to the following article:

• How many Days in Cologne – The Ultimative Guide

When is the best time of the year to visit Cologne?

The best time to visit Cologne can depend on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons to help you make a decision:

Spring (March-May): The spring months are a great time to visit Cologne if you prefer mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The city is not as crowded as in the summer, and you can experience the city’s outdoor activities and sights without the crowds.

Summer (June-August): The summer months are the most popular time to visit Cologne due to the warm temperatures and long days. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. You can enjoy outdoor activities like strolling along the Rhine River or visiting parks and gardens.

Fall (September-November): The fall months are a great time to visit Cologne if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. You can experience the autumn foliage in the city’s parks and gardens, and also participate in the annual Cologne Carnival festivities that occur in November.

Winter (December-February): The winter months can be cold in Cologne, but the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas with markets and events. You can also witness the festive atmosphere during the New Year’s Eve celebrations, when fireworks light up the sky above the Rhine.

Overall, the best time to visit Cologne depends on your preferences and what you want to experience.

Final Thoughts: Is Cologne Worth Visiting?

As a Cologne local, I can assure you that Cologne is a vibrant city with an abundance of attractions that make it worth visiting.

From its rich history to its unique architecture, cultural offerings, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Cologne. However, visitors should be aware that the city may be perceived as dirtier than other German cities like Munich or Hamburg. Despite this potential downside, Cologne’s efforts to address cleanliness and environmental concerns are ongoing.

In the end, the city’s many sights and experiences outweigh any concerns about its cleanliness, making Cologne a destination well worth visiting.