Cologne: An Overview

Cologne, Germany is a stunningly beautiful city filled with historic sites, museums, and bars. The city, founded in 50 A.D., is situated on the Rhine River and serves as both a center of commerce and culture in Germany. It is the fourth-largest city in the country and known internationally for its magnificent Gothic architecture, including the towering Cologne Cathedral, as well as its vibrant nightlife.

But when it comes to the city itself, there are dozens of questions that visitors may have about what it offers: its unique culture, traditions, foods, and attractions. So here’s a guide for anyone looking for answers about Cologne, Germany.

What to Do in Cologne

Cologne is an incredibly diverse destination that features something for everyone. From history buffs and art aficionados to night owls and shoppers, there are a wealth of activities just waiting to be explored.

Top Tourist Attractions

The top tourist attractions in Cologne include:

• Cologne Cathedral – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic sights in Cologne. It took 600 years to construct the magnificent Gothic church, which is recognized as the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.
• Römisch-Germanisches Museum – This museum contains artifacts from Roman and Germanic history dating back to Roman times. It’s open daily, with free admission on Tuesdays.
• Hohenzollern Bridge – The Hohenzollern Bridge crosses the Rhine River and connects the two sides of Cologne. It’s lined with colorful “love locks” – padlocks engraved with lovers’ names.
• Museum Ludwig – This museum features 20th century art from Europe and North America, including works from Pop Art pioneers Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.
• Käthe Kollwitz Museum – Housed in a former brewery, this museum showcases the work of 20th century artist Käthe Kollwitz. Her sculptures, prints, and drawings are all on display.
• Shopping on Hohe Straße – This pedestrian street is the heart of downtown Cologne, filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Unique Experiences

For those looking to explore a more off-the-beaten-path side of the city, there are several unique experiences that can be enjoyed in Cologne. Here are some ideas to get started:

• Take a river cruise down the Rhine – Get a different perspective on the city by taking a leisurely cruise down the Rhine River. There are several cruise operators that offer a variety of different tours.
• Explore the world’s longest Ale Trail – Ales are an integral part of Cologne’s culture, and there are plenty of pubs and breweries to explore. The so-called Ale Trail is 40 kilometers (25 miles) long and many breweries offer beer-tasting tours.
• Learn about Cologne’s history at one of its many museums – As mentioned above, Cologne boasts a remarkable amount of museums, which address various topics such as contemporary art, weaponry, or technology.
• Visit a rooftop bar – With its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Cologne’s rooftop bars offer a perfect opportunity for some after-dark relaxation.
• Take a Brewery Old Town Tour with Beer Tasting – For an immersive experience into local customs and culture, consider joining a brewery tour hosted by Get Your Guide. It includes several samples of traditional brews and a chance to drop in on locals living in Cologne’s Old Town.

What to Eat in Cologne

Like any destination worth its salt, Cologne features an array of delicious local dishes that visitors can enjoy. While there’s plenty to choose from, here are ten must-try dishes that define the region’s cuisine:

• Halve Hahn – A sandwich made with sourdough rye bread and aged Gouda cheese.
• Himmel un Ääd – Sausage with mashed potatoes and applesauce.
• Rievkooche – Traditional pancakes made with apples and spices.
• Himmel un Ääd – Beef tartare with fried egg and capers.
• Reibeplätzchen mit Apfelmus – Fried pastry “coins” served with applesauce.
• Halven Hahn mit Sauerkraut – A sandwich made with Gouda cheese and sauerkraut.
• Halwe Ohm – Mini-sausages served with chips and mustard.
• Kölsch – An ale native to Cologne that is served in small glasses of .2 liters (7 ounces).
• Rheinischer Sauerbraten – Roast beef marinated in vinegar, red wine, and spices.
• Kölsche Kaviar – The signature dish of Cologne made from black pudding (blood sausage).

Cologners are passionate about their food and have distinct preferences when it comes to flavors and techniques – staying true to traditional methods while constantly innovating with new ingredients. From sweet pastries to savory sausages, the city’s culinary scene offers something to please every palate.

Nightlife in Cologne

While some parts of Cologne offer a more relaxed atmosphere, there are also plenty of clubs and bars that keep the party going all night long. Whether you’re looking for cocktails on rooftop terraces or underground clubs filled with techno beats, Cologne has something for everyone. And with its variety of pubs, bierkellers, and beer gardens, there’s an option for those looking for a traditional German drinking experience too.

Most clubs open their doors at 11 p.m., with night owls packing dance floors until 4 a.m. Popular areas for nightlife include Zülpicher Platz in Ehrenfeld and Friesenviertel in south Deutz. There are also weekly street parties on Friesenstraße which transform into bustling hubs of music and dancing after dark.

Transport in Cologne

Like any big city, getting around can sometimes be challenging in Cologne. Fortunately, public transportation is plentiful in the form of buses, trams, U-Bahn (underground trains), and S-Bahn (overground trains). If you plan on visiting multiple attractions or need access to transportation late at night, consider buying a day pass which costs between €6-€7 depending on your age (children under the age of 6 travel for free). There are also discounted passes for frequent users or for tourists who plan to stay longer than one day.

For those who prefer their own transport, bicycles can be rented from various locations around the city or from bike-sharing schemes such as ‘Nextbike’ or ‘CounNinja.’ There are also car rental options available near most train stations as well as taxi ranks around most hubs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to explore a Romanesque church or dance until sunrise, there’s something for everyone in Cologne Germany. From Michelin-starred restaurants to beer gardens filled with locals, the city has a range of offerings that can be enjoyed all year round. If you’re looking for an immersive experience into different customs and culture, consider taking a Brewery Old Town Tour with Beer Tasting hosted by Get Your Guide so you can get an authentic taste of life in this beautiful destination.