How To Spend A Perfect Day In Cologne?

The German city of Cologne is not only known for its cathedral and river but there are numerous things to do and places to visit in order to explore the best of the city. Rain or shine, there is always something to do in this historically rich city. If you ever find yourself in Cologne, here are some top spots and activities to make the most of your day.

Sightseeing Opportunities

Cologne is a city of awe-inspiring sights, making it the perfect city to visit for sightseeing. An absolute must is Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral). Built in 1248, it towers over the city, acting as the city’s landmark. There will be some incredible views on offer, so make sure you bring a camera!

A humble abbey that is no less awe-inspiring is Groß St.Martin, located on opposite sides of the Rhine. This monument is also a particularly romantic sight and should not be missed.

A fun way to get around Cologne is hopping aboard a river boat tour. It is a charming way to appreciate the cobblestoned allyways, lively Riverside markets and traditional gabled churches.

Food and Drinks

Cologne is well known for its beer brewing culture, adding to its already vast collection of renown restaurants and breweries. There are a number of local bars, cafes and pubs that serve top quality beer. Cafés such as Privatbrauerei Sion and Hellers Bräuhaus offer up different brews from one another.

For a unique dining experience, you can dine with exquisite views at an altitude of c.a 200 metres at the revolving restaurant of the Kölnturm. Set atop an artificial mountain, dining whilst rotating stateside in under an hour provides an unforgettable experience!

Another great place to try out local flavours is the Altenburg at Abtei Brauergasthäuser. Located at a former monastery church and brewery parish-house, here you can sample regional Kölsch beers, including Herforder Pils and Schwelmer Pils, together with traditional specialities such as pork knuckle and lunchtime sandwiches.

Museums & Shopping

Cologne is home to an array of art galleries, museums and markets, making it a paradise for shopping addicts. At Old Town, visitors will find delicious bakeries alongside a variety of souvenir shops – an ideal spot for gift hunting! The city wall is also an impressive point of reference, as within it lies various alleys full of stores selling anything from designer apparel to artisanal items.

For a more educational experience, check out one of the cities many museums. The Römisch-Germanisches Museum (Roman-Germanic Museum) houses intriguing evidence pertaining to the history of the Roman Empire in partnership with special exhibitions which range from archaeological findings, cultural artefacts, Egyptology and lapidar – sculptures and architectural sections that are frequently updated.

The Stadtgarten (City Park) is another tranquil spot within the city which can be explored during late evening strollers or vibrant festivals during summertime – something to suit everyone!

Conclusion

With so much to offer in one single day, it’s no wonder why Cologne has become one of the top destinations among travellers! Make sure you swing by Cologne Cathedral, hop on a river boat tour, sample some delicious eats & drinks whilst taking some time to shop, explore museums and admire parks… Once done and after you feel full with experiences and knowledge, you should spend the evening walking through Old Town – concluding your perfect day in gorgeous Cologne! Experience all this yourself with a guided walking tour to 3 Old Town Breweries.

An Insider’s Guide to Spending a Perfect Day in Cologne

Cologne is a beautiful city located in Northwestern Germany, situated on the banks of the Rhine River. It is a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity – which makes it an ideal destination for tourists. Here is an insider’s guide to spending a perfect day in Cologne that highlights its best attractions, culinary spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Morning: Exploring the History and Culture of Cologne

Begin your day by exploring the city’s rich history and culture. Start with a visit to Cologne Cathedral, the most iconic attraction of the city. The Cathedral is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most magnificent examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. From there, head to the Roman-Germanic Museum, which is located right next to the Cathedral. This museum has an extensive collection of Roman artifacts and provides visitors with a glimpse of ancient times.

Next, wander through Cologne’s Old Town, known locally as the ‘Altstadt’. This area encompasses many beautiful buildings and historical landmarks. One spot of interest not to miss is the historic town hall located in the central square, which dates back to the 14th century. A walk along the Rhine River promenade is also highly recommended, offering stunning views of the Cologne skyline.

Afternoon: Lunch and Shopping

No trip is complete without some great food and shopping. One perfect place for lunch is the ‘Brauhaus Früh am Dom’ that serves traditional German cuisine and drinks. After that, head to Ehrenstrasse, one of the city’s best shopping streets, which houses both renowned fashion boutiques and local stores.

If you’re a lover of sweets, don’t forget to check out the oldest chocolate factory in Cologne – ‘Imhoff-Schokoladen-Museum.’ It has a unique exhibition hall that presents the history and production of chocolate. Plus, you can taste some of the finest chocolate on the planet.

Evening: Cultural experiences and Off-the-Beaten-Path Excursions

Cologne offers plenty of cultural experiences in the evening. The Rhine River and the Hohenzollern Bridge illumination is one of the highlights of the Cologne nightlife. Additionally, the Cologne Opera House and the Philharmonic Hall performances present a dynamic experience of music, theater, and dance.

Suppose you are looking for a more local experience. In that case, there are several unconventional options available in the city, such as taking a stroll through the ‘Belgium Quarter’, which is a livelier and less touristy part of town. It is popular among locals and offers a relaxed atmosphere, various restaurants, bars, and an overall young vibe.

Another option is the ‘Kwartier Lateng,’ a multicultural neighborhood offering a unique experience of street art, graffiti, and urban culture. It’s an excellent place to explore and have a delicious meal with a twist of Asian, Turkish, and Central European cuisine.

Conclusion

Cologne is a wonderful destination with plenty of attractions that provide great experiences and fun for tourists. The city’s central location also makes it easy to visit other parts of Germany. So, if you are planning a trip to Germany, add Cologne to your list, and experience all that it has to offer. Follow this insider’s guide, and spend a perfect day in Cologne that you’ll never forget.