Cologne, a beautiful city situated on the Rhine River in Germany, offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore its rich culture and history. However, to truly experience the charm of this vibrant city, there’s nothing quite like a scenic boat tour. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to go for. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the two best boat tours in Cologne, giving you an insider’s look at what you can expect from these experiences. So sit back, relax, and get ready to soak up the stunning views while cruising along the Rhine River.

The 2 Best Boat Tours in Cologne

1. Cologne: Panoramic City Cruise
2. Cologne: Rhine River Cruise Through the Old Town

The 2 Best Boat Tours in Cologne

1. Cologne: Panoramic City Cruise

Journey through the charming city of Cologne and discover its sightseeing highlights from the water with a 1-hour panoramic city cruise. Glide over the Rhine on a boat that is maintained to high safety standards and take in the top city sights like the massive Cologne Cathedral and beautiful bridges such as the South Bridge. Capture stunning pictures of the Hohenzollern Bridge, Deutz Suspension Bridge, The Cologne Chocolate Museum, German Sports and Olympic Museum, Rheinauhafen, and Südbrücke. Relax as you float down the river with a drink from the boat’s onboard bar (at your own expense) and enjoy a live guide who will provide commentary throughout the tour. This cruise includes food and drinks, so you don’t have to worry about packing your own. Experience a beautiful panoramic view of Cologne that you won’t find anywhere else!

2. Cologne: Rhine River Cruise Through the Old Town

See the best of Cologne’s famous landmarks from a different perspective on a relaxing Rhine river cruise. Over the course of 65 minutes, you’ll spot top sights such as the stunning Cologne Cathedral and Old Town while enjoying running commentary on the city’s history and culture. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard the ship, including local specialties like coffee and Kölsch beer. Departing from the harbor area, the cruise meanders south all the way to Rodenkirchen. With recorded commentary and comfortable seating, this is the perfect way to enjoy a leisurely tour of Cologne’s waterways.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Cologne, Germany

Cologne is a beautiful city located in the western part of Germany, famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, cultural landmarks, festivals, and much more. With its history spanning over 2000 years, Cologne has become one of the most prominent cities in the region, attracting millions of tourists every year. In this blog post, we will explore the most frequently asked questions about Cologne and provide you with informative and helpful answers.

What is the history of Cologne?

Cologne has a rich and varied history that dates back more than 2000 years. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, Cologne (then known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium) played an important role in the Roman Empire, being one of the largest cities in the region. Throughout the centuries, Cologne has been a prominent cultural and economic hub, suffered from severe damage during the Second World War, and then rebuilt itself into the beautiful city that it is today, filled with historical landmarks and modern architecture.

What are the top tourist attractions in Cologne?

Cologne is filled with plenty of attractions that are sure to impress every tourist. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cologne that you shouldn’t miss:

Cologne Cathedral:

This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Cologne, dating back to the 13th century. It is considered as one of the most magnificent Cathedrals in Europe.

Rheinuferpromenade:

The Rhine Promenade is a must-visit, providing stunning views of the river, the cathedral and the city.

The Roman-Germanic Museum:

One of the most popular museums in Cologne, showcasing a broad range of fascinating exhibitions from the Roman era.

The Chocolate Museum:

A visit to the Chocolate Museum is highly recommended for chocolate aficionados, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the history of chocolate, including sampling of their finest kind.

The Hohenzollern Bridge:

This bridge serves as a prominent landmark in the city, providing visitors with the perfect photo opportunity.

What are the most important festivals and events held in Cologne?

Cologne is famous for its numerous festivals and events that celebrate cultural and historic significance. Here are some of the most important festivals and events held in Cologne:

Carnival:

this is the largest and most famous carnival in Germany, with parades, street parties, and exhilarating atmosphere.

Gay Pride / Christopher Street Day:

This colorful Parade is celebrated annually and it displays the cultural diversity and tolerance of Cologne.

Christmas market:

The city’s Christmas market runs from late November to early January and is considered one of the finest in Germany. The market is best known for its handicrafts and specialty foods but is also very famous for its Glühwein, which is a spicy and sweet hot mulled wine.

Köln Music Week:

One of the largest music festivals in Germany, taking place every June, showcasing emerging and established artists.

What is typical food and drink in Cologne?

Cologne offers a broad range of culinary choices, with plenty of traditional and modern dishes to explore. Here are some of the typical foods and drinks in Cologne:

Kölsch:

A locally brewed beer that is available in every corner of the city, Kölsch is a light lager served in small glasses.

Reibekuchen:

A delicious potato pancake that is best eaten warm and served with apple sauce.

Himmel un Äd:

A dish that translates to ‘Heaven and Earth,’ made with black pudding and mashed potatoes, served with fried onion rings on top.

Sauerbraten:

A slow-cooked beef dish served with a rich, tangy sauce.

What are some of the best shopping areas in Cologne?

Cologne is a paradise for avid shoppers, with plenty of unique boutiques and luxury stores. Here are some of the best shopping areas in Cologne:

Schildergasse and Hohe Strasse:

Located in the city centre, these streets are known for their high-end fashion stores and luxury brands.

Belgian Quarter:

This trendy district is packed with unique fashion boutiques, concept stores, and indie fashion shops.

Ehrenstrasse:

A street that is packed with small boutiques, vintage stores, cafes, and bistros.

Neumarkt-Galerie:

A modern shopping mall located in the city centre, offering a wide range of shops, restaurants and other amenities.

What is the best way to get around Cologne?

Cologne has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. The best option is to buy a day ticket, which allows you to travel on all modes of public transportation. Bike rentals are also quite common and they offer a great way to explore the city on your own.

Conclusion:

Cologne is a wonderful city with plenty to explore and discover. With its rich history, cultural landmarks, festivals, and delicious food, it’s no wonder that it’s a popular destination for tourists from all around the world. We hope that this blog post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Cologne and that you are inspired to visit and explore everything it has to offer.