21 Best Free Things to Do in Cologne, Germany

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE BEST FREE THINGS TO DO IN COLOGNE?

You are in the right place! I am from Cologne, and I understand that exploring a new city can sometimes be costly.

However, fear not! Cologne has many fun things to do for free that will make you happy. This lively city is by the Rhine River and has amazing old-style buildings, beautiful churches, and stunning sights of the river.

In this post, I will guide you through some of the best free things to do in Cologne. From relaxed walks through the charming streets of Old Town to indulging in window-shopping along the renowned Schildergasse, there is an array of experiences awaiting you.

If you happen to visit during the winter, make sure not to miss the lively Carnival street festival.

So, let’s start an adventure to find out about the fantastic free things to do in Cologne. We’ll explore all the amazing things this city has, without needing to spend any money.

21 Best Free Things to Do in Cologne

1. Visit Cologne Cathedral

When planning a trip to Cologne, be sure to include a visit to the iconic Cologne Cathedral.

Located in the heart of the city, this Gothic masterpiece is one of Germany’s most important architectural monuments.

Standing at 157 meters (515 feet) tall, it is the tallest twin-spired church. Its impressive stained-glass windows and unique spires create the largest façade of any church in the world.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cologne Cathedral attracts an average of 20,000 people a day, making it one of the most visited sites in Germany.

For an unparalleled view over the Rhine, visitors can climb more than 500 steps to a viewing platform about 100 meters (330 feet) over the city.

It’s worth noting that entrance to the Cologne Cathedral is completely free, making it an accessible attraction for everyone to enjoy. So, don’t hesitate to visit and explore the beauty of this magnificent landmark.

2. Explore Cologne’s Historic Churches

Did you know that Cologne is home to 12 Romanesque churches?

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 is an awesome way to immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich history and culture.

And the best of all: The entrance to this amazing landmarks is free of charge.

3. Stroll Cologne’s Old Town

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

This neighborhood is in the center of the city and has cute and old streets with colorful buildings. There are also great places to drink or eat, like breweries and restaurants that serve Kölsch beer and Halver Hahn sandwiches.

The Old Town has a lot to offer besides food and drinks. It’s full of important historical places to see, like the huge Cologne Cathedral, the old-style Great St. Martin church, and the tower of the historic City Hall.

You also have to see the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen on Am Hof-Street. It was built in 1899 and has the city’s favorite mythical creatures, the Heinzelmännchen.

4. Celebrate Cologne Carnival

Cologne Carnival is a beloved tradition that has been celebrated for centuries.

Known as the “fifth season” of the year, this colorful festival officially begins on November 11th at 11:11 am and continues until Ash Wednesday in February. However, the most lively and festive days occur during the last five days leading up to Ash Wednesday. During these days the streets are filled with colorful costumes, music, dancing, and parades.

A major highlight of the Cologne Carnival is the Rose Monday Parade, which features over 12,000 participants winding through the city and drawing thousands of spectators.

In addition to the parade, visitors can enjoy countless other events and activities, including costume parties and street performances.

5. Stroll the Rheinauhafen

The neighborhood of Rheinauhafen in Cologne is situated along the Rhine River. It was formerly a harbor. Nowadays, it’s a thriving modern neighborhood that offers a blend of residential homes, businesses, and recreational spaces.

One of the unique features of Rheinauhafen is its carne houses. These buildings are repurposed crane buildings that now serve as modern residences. Other buildings in the area also mix old and new architectural styles, creating a distinct and appealing atmosphere.

In addition to its diverse architecture, Rheinauhafen offers walking paths for visitors and residents to enjoy. The district is an excellent place to live, work, and relax due to its vibrant and attractive ambiance.

The stunning views of the Rhine River and the city make Rheinauhafen a must-see destination in Cologne. The area is among the most contemporary locations in the city, with modern architecture merging with old-world charm.

Strolling Rheinauhafen is definately one of the best free things to do when in Cologne.

6. Fell the Love on Hohenzollern Bridge

The Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne is not just a historic landmark, but it has also become a symbol of love. Couples from all over the world come to attach locks to the railings of the bridge as a sign of their affection for one another. The locks come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and some have special engravings like names, dates, or messages.

The Hohenzollern Bridge’s love locks are now a famous tourist attraction in Cologne.Visitors can come to see the thousands of locks and even add their own to the collection.

The bridge’s location offers an impressive view of the Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine river, making it a perfect spot for a romantic stroll.

Beyond the love locks, the Hohenzollern Bridge is significant for its historical significance, as one of the most important bridges in Germany during World War II. Visiting the bridge is a cost-free way to experience Cologne’s culture and history while admiring the colorful symbols of love. So be sure to check it out during your next visit to Cologne!

7. Visit Rhein Boulevard

The Rhein Boulevard, a scenic path that runs alongside the Rhine River, offers breathtaking views of Cologne. The boulevard is also renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, with cafes and restaurants that make it an ideal spot for socializing.

In addition to the bustling urban scene, there are plenty of green spaces dotted along the boulevard where visitors can take a break and enjoy some fresh air.

The boulevard is a popular spot for recreational activities such as walking, jogging, biking, and picnicking. It is absoltely one of the best free spots to visit when in Cologne.

8. Window-Shop on Schildergasse and Hohe Straße

If you’re planning to visit Cologne, two of the best places to do some window-shopping are Hohe Straße and Schildergasse.

Hohe Straße is a long pedestrian street with a mix of storesand restaurants, catering to different budgets and tastes. It’s one of the oldest shopping areas in the city, offering a unique shopping experience.

Schildergasse, on the other hand, is considered to be one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe. You’ll find all types of shops here, from big stores to small shops that sell special gifts, clothing, and souvenirs.

Interestingly, Schildergasse Street has a rich history that dates back to ancient Roman times. Today, it is home to landmarks like Antoniterkirche, the oldest Protestant church in Cologne, and the impressive Peek & Cloppenburg’s Weltstadthaus, designed by Renzo Piano.

The street’s name comes from the coats of arms that were painted by artists in the Middle Ages, which gave it its current name, meaning “Shield Street” in English.

9. Visit Rhein Center

The Rhein Center in Cologne Weiden is a popular shopping mall that offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to spend a few hours, especially on colder or wetter days.

Visitors can enjoy window-shopping or browse through the many shops that offer everything from clothing to electronics. The center is conveniently located near public transportation and offers parking.

With its wide range of offerings, the Rhein Center is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and free activity in Cologne.

10. Enjoy window-shopping at Kalk Arcaden

Kalk Arcaden is a popular shopping center in the district of Kalk that offers a wide range of stores, restaurants, and cafes. While shopping here can certainly be an enjoyable experience, it is also a great place to do some window-shopping for free.

Whether you’re looking for clothing, accessories, electronics, or something else entirely, you’re sure to find plenty of options here. And if you need a break from browsing, there are plenty of places to grab a snack or a cup of coffee.

So if you’re looking for a fun and free way to spend an afternoon in Cologne, Kalk Arcaden is definitely worth a visit.

11. Smell Eau de Cologne

One of the must-do activities in Cologne is to visit the birthplace of the famous Eau De Cologne 4711 perfume.

The perfume’s name originated during the French occupation of Cologne when Napoleon ordered his soldiers to count all the houses on Glockengasse. The Eau de Cologne building was numbered 4711, which gave the famed perfume its name. You can experience the French influence further by hearing the French anthem played every hour.

Inside the building, visitors can explore a small historic exhibition and even dip their hands into pure Eau de Cologne from a fountain. It is an olfactory and free experience not to be missed.

12. Stroll the Botanical Garden

Located in the Riehl district of Cologne, Flora is not just a botanical garden, but also the oldest public park in the city.

The site, which covers almost half a mile, is home to over 10,000 species of plants, including magnolias, rhododendrons, coniferous trees, and maples from around the world. Visitors can stroll through the garden and enjoy the natural beauty of the plants and flowers.

The centerpiece of the garden is the Flora, a renovated historic building, which hosts concerts, social gatherings, and conferences. It serves as a perfect respite for tourists needing a break from walking.

The garden is visited by more than a million people every year and is a wonderful destination for all ages, whether you are interested in horticulture, nature, or just looking for a free spot to go to when in Cologne.

13. Admire the architecture of the Belgian Quarter

The Belgian Quarter, situated between Aachenerstraße and Friesenplatz, is a vibrant neighborhood and a favorite of many. This trendy area is home to numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants, providing visitors with a fun and lively atmosphere.

Tourists enjoy taking a stroll through the Belgian Quarter, admiring the attractive architecture and indulging in local cuisine. The neighborhood boasts an array of buildings in different styles, including Gothic, Art Nouveau, and historicist. The streets are named after cities and provinces in Belgium, like Brussels, Ghent, Liege, Antwerp, Maastricht, and Utrecht.

The Belgian Quarter is also an ideal location to experience art, theater, and culture, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

14. Relax at Aachener Weiher Pond

The Aachener Weiher pond, located near the university, is a bustling destination in Cologne, popular among young people and families.

Spanning over four hectares, the artificial body of water is surrounded by verdant meadows and gentle hills, created from the rubble of the war-torn city.

Although not suitable for swimming, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, picnicking, and grilling on nice days. The park is also home to a small playground for children.

Named after the nearby Aachener Street, which dates back to Roman times, the pond is adjacent to the Museum of East Asian Art.

15. Medival Gates and Walls

Discover the medieval gates and walls that once guarded the city of Cologne by visiting the well-preserved examples that remain today. Dating back to 50 A.D., these gates are decorated with natural materials such as limestone, sandstone, greywacke, and trachyte.

Be sure to visit the impressive 13th-century Hahnentorburg at Rudolfplatz, as well as the gates at Severinstorburg, Ulrepforte, and Eigelsteintorburg.

After exploring the gates, take a stroll through the Cologne Green Belt, which is made up of parks and green spaces created from old fortifications in the 1920s.

The Inner Green Belt covers neighborhoods like Riehl, Mauenheim, and Ehrenfeld, and includes some university campuses. The Outer Green Belt is perfect for outdoor activities like biking, walking, and canoeing, and is also a great place to relax and have a picnic or BBQ.

For a quieter experience, head to the green spaces along the Rhine River or take the kids to the Merheimer Heide. The Poller Wiesen parks also offer stunning views of the city and the Cathedral, and are often the site of parties and events.

16. Have a picnic at Decksteiner Weiher

Decksteiner Weiher is a scenic lake located in the west of Cologne. It covers an area of around 21 hectares and is surrounded by beautiful parkland.

The lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating, and there are several facilities for visitors, including a restaurant and a playground. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as ducks, geese, and swans.

Decksteiner Weiher is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing day in nature.

17. Walk around Adenauer Weiher

The Adenauer Weiher is a picturesque lake situated in the Stadtwald Forrest of Cologne, near the RheinEnergieStadion.

The lake was named after the former mayor of the city, Konrad Adenauer, and was created during the expansion of the city forest in the 1920s.

While it is a peaceful location for a leisurely walk or jog, during home games of the 1. FC Cologne soccer team, you can hear the fan songs from the lake.

The nearby Club Astoria restaurant provides a stunning view of the lake.

If you’re looking for a serene location to relax and connect with nature, Adenauer Weiher is a perfect destination in Cologne, especially in the summer.

18. Visit Melatenfriedhof Cemetry

Melatenfriedhof is the largest cemetery in Cologne, covering an area of 435,000 square meters and boasting 55,540 graves.

Despite its status as a burial ground, it is a popular free attraction for visitors to the city.

The cemetery is known for its beautiful park-like setting and impressive funerary art. Many notable individuals are buried here, including politicians, artists, and writers.

Some of the graves are adorned with elaborate sculptures and monuments, making it a fascinating place to explore for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

19. Stroll along Lindenthal Canal

In search of free things to do in in Cologne, consider taking a walk along the Lindenthal Canals.

As a radial link between the inner and outer green belts of the city, the canal was designed by garden architects to offer an attractive green route amidst the densely populated urban areas. Stretching for 600 meters, the canal is surrounded by greenery on both sides.

20. Discover Street Art in Ehrenfeld

The district of Ehrenfeld is the alternative part of town that adds a unique flavor to the city.

Despite being a bit further away from most of Cologne’s attractions, Ehrenfeld is known for its vibrant graffiti, vintage stores, hip cafes, and incredible street art. The street art route in Ehrenfeld spans over 6 kilometers, which takes approximately 1.5-2 hours to complete if walked at a relaxed pace. It starts at Liebigstraße and ends at Leyendeckerstraße, showcasing the area’s thriving street art culture.

21. Lindenthal Animal Park

Lindenthal Animal Park is located in the Lindenthal district. The park is particularly popular among families with young children.

Here, visitors can observe and feed ducks, deer, goats, fallow deer, and donkeys. The food purchased from the vending machines can be given to the animals. Unfortunately, bringing your own food to feed the animals is not allowed.

The animal park is open year-round from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and admission is free.

What is Cologne best known for?

Cologne, a city in western Germany, is best known for its iconic Cologne Cathedral, a towering Gothic cathedral that dominates the city’s skyline.

Additionally, Cologne is the birthplace of Eau de Cologne, a fragrance that is manufactured worldwide but originated in the city.

The city’s Old Town is home to 12 Romanesque churches, including the famous Groß St. Martin, which is located next to the Kölner Dom.

Cologne is also famous for its wild Carnival celebration, which takes place every February and adds to the city’s diverse range of experiences.

Is Cologne expensive?

Cologne can be considered moderately expensive. While it’s certainly not as expensive as some other major cities in Europe like Paris or London, Cologne still has its fair share of pricey hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining. It’s important to do your research and plan accordingly to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re looking for more things to do in Cologne

…check out the following articels:

• Things to Do in Cologne in Spring
• Things to Do in Cologne in Summer
• Things to Do in Cologne in Fall
• Things to Do in Cologne in Winter
• Things to Do in Cologne when it’s hot
• Things to Do in Cologne when it’s Raining
• Things to Do in Cologne with Kids