What to Expect When Visiting Cologne, Germany
Most people outside of Germany have heard of Cologne and know it as a unique and amazing city, located in North Rhine-Westphalia. But what can you expect when you actually visit Cologne? From the vibrant nightlife to the cultural events, there is much to see and appreciate while visiting this beautiful German city.
Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany and a major cultural center in Europe. It is famous for its cathedral, Romanesque churches and archaeological sites. The Old Town of Cologne, known as Altstadt, is located on the left side of the Rhine and is home to the World Heritage Site of Cologne Cathedral. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife with amazing clubs, bars, pubs and discotheques all around the city.
In terms of shopping, Cologne is known for its beautiful boutiques, high-end stores and luxury shopping destinations. Cologne also has a variety of antique shops and markets on offer. Upmarket stores selling fashion items typically line up in the pedestrian zone around Schildergasse, which is the longest shopping street in Europe.
For those who want to take a glimpse into the city’s culture, there are plenty of cultural attractions to visit. The Museum Ludwig is a must-see museum that houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Other important museums in the city include the Museum für Angewandte Kunst, which focuses on innovative design and art from the 19th century and the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum, which houses a large collection of old masters from several centuries.
When it comes to entertainment, Cologne offers lots of activities for everyone. There are many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Rhein in Flammen (Rhine in Flames) which is held during the summer months and features a series of magnificent firework display along the River Rhine. One of the most popular music festivals in Europe is also held in Cologne each year – the c/o pop festival. This event attracts well-known international artists, as well as up-and-coming music talents from around Europe.
For tourists who want to explore Cologne at their own pace, there are plenty of walking tours available. These include guided historical tours that explore the sights and sounds of the city, while locals also offer walking tours to explore some of the lesser known sights in the city, such as secret canals and picturesque bridges. One great way to get a real insight into this Amazing German city is to book a skip-the-line Hard Rock Cafe tour. This tour gives you the opportunity to discover some hidden gems of Cologne without having to queue up.
No matter if you want to sightsee, explore culture or shop until you drop – Cologne has it all! There are exciting activities for every kind of traveler, ensuring a memorable experience any time of the year that you visit this traditional German city.