A Rhine city whose huge Gothic cathedral stands right beside the main station. In winter several Christmas markets open across the centre, so you can visit a few in one day.
Cologne Cathedral The UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral; you can climb the south tower by stairs.
Christmas Market at the Cathedral The city’s signature market set against the cathedral, one of several across town.
Hohenzollern Bridge The railway bridge covered in love locks, with famous night views of the cathedral from across the river.
Chocolate Museum A riverside museum showing how chocolate is made.
Where to stay in Cologne
Cathedral / Old Town
Close to the station and the markets.
What to eat in Cologne
Halve Hahn — Rye roll with aged Gouda, onion and mustard (no chicken despite the name)
Himmel un Ääd — Mashed potato and apple sauce with black pudding and fried onions
Reibekuchen — Crisp grated-potato pancakes served with apple sauce
Cologne tips and things to watch out for
Best time to visit Cologne
Christmas markets run from mid-November to around 23 December, and the February Carnival fills the whole city with festivities. Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Cologne travel tips
Kölsch beer comes in small glasses; put your coaster on top to signal you are done.
The main station is right next to the cathedral, so you can start sightseeing straight off the train.
Good to know in Germany
Cards are spreading, but small eateries and bakeries can be cash-only. source
Return bottles and cans to supermarket machines to get the deposit (Pfand). source
No gates, but tickets are checked; unvalidated tickets are fined. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Cologne are still being collected, so food and transport use official prices from other cities in Germany (prices within one country do not differ much).
Cologne attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.