What is There to See and Do in Cologne? Detailed Guide Where to Start Exploring the Rhineland City

For travelers looking for the unique cultural experience, Cologne is the perfect destination. Tucked away on the banks of the Rhine River in the heart of Germany’s Rhineland region, Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest cities, boasting a vibrant culture, a wide variety of attractions, and excellent food and wine. Best of all, Cologne is incredibly easy to reach. Whether you’re travelling by train, car, or plane, it’s a short trip from most European cities. With more than 30 million visitors each year, there’s no shortage of things to do in this lively city. So where should you start?

Discover the City’s Rich History and Culture

Cologne was founded by the Romans in 50 A.D. The romantic streets, alleys, and squares of the city still bear traces of its embattled past. Wander through the city’s cobblestoned lanes to explore the quaint shops, cafes, and chocolate manufactures that call the city home. Don’t miss the city’s impressive collection of churches, including the soaring Gothic Cathedral of Cologne (Kölner Dom) and St. Gereon’s Basilica, one of the oldest Romanesque churches in Germany.

When it’s time to eat, there’s plenty of opportunity to sample the city’s unique local cuisine. Catch a bit of classic German food like nürnberger sausages and schnitzel or try a refreshingly novel combination of flavors like those found at one of Cologne’s trendy restaurants. And don’t forget to enjoy Cologne’s famous Kölsch beer. This light, golden-hued brew is unique to the region and can be found on tap in every corner pub.

Explore Art and Exhibitions

Cologne is full of art and culture waiting to be explored! Spend a day exploring one of the world-renowned art galleries such as the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, one of the largest and most important art galleries in Europe with an impressive collection that covers all periods from the Middle Ages to Modernism. The city also boasts several contemporary art galleries and museums with continuously changing exhibitions including the Museum Ludwig, which is one of the most important museums for modern art in Europe. The Museum für Angewandte Kunst showcases artworks with a focus on fashion, photography and design as well as applied arts from Europe and other parts of the world.

Sport and Recreation in Cologne

If you’re looking for something more active to do during your stay in Cologne, you won’t be disappointed. The city offers plenty of opportunities for enjoying some sporting activity or leisure time outdoors. If you’re interested in sports, you can try one of Cologne’s many arenas for ice hockey or basketball. You might even catch a game with Kölner Haie (Cologne Sharks), the local hockey team, who are regular contenders for Germany’s Deutsche Eishockey League championship title.

For more outdoor recreation head to the Rhine River where you can jump on a leisurely riverboat cruise or take a cycling tour along the waterway. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can join other locals in swimming and bathing along the banks on hot summer days while taking in all of Cologne’s magical skyline views across the water.

Experience Events and Nightlife

From grand historical pageants celebrating St. Martin’s Day to alternative music festivals such as Rock am Ring and Riot Fest, Cologne puts on a wide array of amazing special events throughout the year. Parties in cool underground clubs or laid-back atmosphere in restaurants and bars make sure that everyone can find their perfect night out among Cologne’s bustling nightlife scene. To get an insider scoop on all that’s going on in Cologne’s nightlife and cultural events, check out Cologne Days, your guide for all things happening in Cologne.

Moreover, Cologne is home to some major sporting events throughout the year that draw crowds from across Germany and Europe alike. Be sure not to miss out on cheering for your favorite teams in 21 sports at Euro 2024 that will be hosted at different venues around Cologne!

Explore Beyond Downtown: Go Further Afield

Just outside downtown there are several suburbs worth exploring when visiting Cologne. For a glimpse into Kölnisch history with its rusticated brick buildings ringing atrial courtyards (Hofs) the lovely Altstadt district is your best bet. Another great destination is Ehrenfeld – an edgy up-and-coming neighborhood with vibrant bars and restaurants, graffiti-dotted streetscapes, and busy biergartens that make it one of the hippest neighborhoods in town. Also be sure to visit beautiful Bensberg – this former manor house boasts impressive grounds enriched with French roses and trimmed hedges, making it one perfect place for evening strolls or picnics at sunset.

Savor Freshly-Made Local Wines

Wine lovers should not miss out on sampling some local wines from Cologne when visiting! Head over to the small village of Kürten just 30 minutes away from downtown where you can visit local winemakers to taste their vintages while taking in spectacular views of Rhineland countryside. If you want to further experience local wines without leaving downtown there are plenty of charming wine taverns scattered around city centre where you can sample vintages from some of Germany’s most famous wineries alongside traditional plates like schnitzel or frikadellen (meatballs).

Or if you have more time on your hands you can also take part of Cologne Wine Tasting Tour with Optional Old Town Tour, organised by GetYourGuide. You will get a chance to savor delightful local Rieslings paired with traditional German food as you get taken around some of the city’s top wineries and ushered into private tasting rooms that invite guests to discover traditional winemaking techniques while savoring award winning wines. Make sure not to miss this amazing tour when visiting near by!

Conclusion: What is There to See and Do in Cologne?

From its historical Cathedrals, cultural art exhibitions, sports events and nightlife, there’s never a lack of things to do while visiting Cologne! Apart from leisurely strolling around smaller cities such as Altstadt and Ehrenfeld and exploring its always bustling nightlife, don’t forget to enjoy some unique experiences such as partaking in sampling delicious local wines at small wineries around Kürten and even taking part of GetYourGuide organised tour where you can get an exclusive experience tasting award winning wines. So if you’re up for a dreamy vacation surrounded by all sorts of activities, make sure to include Cologne on your must-visit list!