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Welcome to Cologne, the colourful and historic metropolis in Germany’s Rhineland area! Cologne is without doubt one of the oldest cities in Germany, with a wealthy historical past that stretches again over two thousand years. From its gorgeous Gothic structure, to its vibrant nightlife, and its lovely riverfront, Cologne is an unforgettable vacation spot.
On this information, you’ll discover all the data it’s worthwhile to profit from your time visiting Cologne. From prime points of interest to scrumptious native delicacies, we’ll present you the very best of what this metropolis has to supply.
So, let’s get began exploring the attractive metropolis of Cologne!
See additionally: Off The Overwhelmed Observe Tip: Belgian Quarter Cologne
Right here is an outline:
A snapshot of what to anticipate when visiting Cologne
The distinctive flavour to the town of Cologne is commonly put right down to the inhabitants, or Kölsche, who take an infinite quantity of pleasure of their metropolis. Cologne, like most areas of Germany, has its very personal native dialect of German, although that is unlikely to hinder the common sight-seeing vacationer, as lots of the landmarks of the town have English-speaking guides and data.
For these vacationers who communicate German, and want to observe it, the residents have a variety of endurance with these attending to grips with the grammatically tough language.
Colognians are very pleasant folks; welcoming vacationers of all kinds and with all pursuits. Away from the landmarks, many employees of the German rail system (Deutsche Bahn) communicate English, in addition to ticket/timetable machines out there in English modes. Native transport techniques, nonetheless, not often cater for the English speaker, with solely the naked necessities of knowledge out there however this could solely concern these wishing to discover the town away from the extra centralised sights.
These wishing to discover away from the central metropolis ought to plan their journey earlier than leaving, to stop minor problems as there’s a lack of English away from the centre of Cologne. Older folks in Cologne are inclined to have little or no information of English, while businessmen and ladies, in addition to the German youth, all are inclined to have a great information of the language. Language isn’t a powerful barrier, so this shouldn’t be an excessive amount of of a fear for the common vacationer, simply strategy a pleasant native and use a smile in your face, your legs and arms. Cologne’s sturdy facet is its cultural life.
In case you go to Cologne alone, you gained’t keep alone for lengthy (any time of the 12 months). You simply have to go to a pub and it gained’t be lengthy, somebody will invite you for a beer!
Get the KölnCard
Uncover Cologne comfortably and cost-effectively with the KölnCard. With free entry to public transport you’ll be able to journey for twenty-four or 48 hours and obtain reductions of as much as 50% from quite a few companions. The KölnCard is obtainable for single individuals or teams.
– Free journey on buses and trains
– As much as 50% low cost at points of interest and museums
– As much as 50% low cost on guided excursions
– As much as 20% low cost at eating places
– As much as 15% low cost on buying
Get the cardboard right here.
Cologne Carnival (Fastelovend)
Karneval, the largest festivity in Cologne is the Winter carnival (or Fastelovend) in February. In keeping with the official Cologne tourism web site: “Its spotlight is the road carnival going down from Weiberfastnacht (the Thursday earlier than Ash Wednesday, historically the day on which ladies take management of the town) to Karnevalsdienstag (Shrove Tuesday).
On Rosenmontag (Shrove Monday) a couple of and a half million folks line Cologne’s streets to look at the parade with the mad triad – the prince, farmer, and virgin – yearly.”
Dates for Cologne Carnival: It begins on the Thursday earlier than the start of Lent annually.
I’m all the time telling buddies that the Cologne Carnival could be the very best carnival on the planet. Okay, I do know it’s fairly one thing to say that, as there are numerous nice locations on the market with nice Carnival experiences. However Cologne Carnival is exclusive!
Everybody… actually…Everybody will get dressed up! Folks run round as clowns, cowboys, Indians, self-made costumes & no matter you prefer to be! The songs you’ll hear are all in “Kölsch”, the dialect and most of them are about carnival and concerning the metropolis and its folks.
Cologne is known for its Kölsch (beer)
Cologne is thought for its love of beer, sometimes called Kölsch. This top-fermented beer is normally mild in shade and has a distinctively dry and crisp style, because of its native components. It is usually served in a particular glass referred to as a Kölschstange, which is designed to maintain the beer chilly and carbonated.
Cologne has a wealthy brewing tradition, with dozens of native breweries producing Kölsch and different beers. Among the hottest embody Reissdorf Kölsch, Gaffel Kölsch, and Sion Kölsch. Many of those conventional beers are served in pubs and eating places all through the town, usually accompanied by a plate of hearty native meals.
To style as many Kölsch as you’ll be able to, be a part of this brewery tour.
Town additionally performs host to a variety of beer festivals all year long, together with the well-known Cologne Carnival that we simply talked about. Throughout this time, 1000’s of individuals come to the town for its distinctive mixture of events and parades, in addition to its beer.
Along with conventional Kölsch, Cologne additionally produces a variety of craft beers. These embody IPAs, wheat beers, and even bitter beers, which have gotten more and more common. There are additionally a variety of specialty bars and retailers all through.
See additionally: Conventional Beer and Meals in Cologne
Conventional meals in Cologne
Cologne is an excellent metropolis filled with tradition and custom, and that is very true in relation to its meals. Conventional meals in Cologne is a mixture of influences from everywhere in the world, giving it a singular and scrumptious taste.
Schweinshaxe
On the whole, you will need to observe a nutritious diet. Nonetheless, there are occasions whenever you simply need to indulge, like whenever you eat a cured and cooked pork knuckle. However if you wish to regulate your determine, you’ll be able to lower off the seen bacon and eat solely half of the shank. To make the dish extra balanced, it’s additionally a good suggestion to deal with the facet dishes like sauerkraut or mashed potatoes!
Halver Hahn
One other conventional dish is the Halver Hahn. In case you haven’t learn up on it, the title may mistakenly lead you to count on half a roast hen – however for those who’re then served solely a rye roll with medium-aged Gouda, onions, butter and mustard by the Köbes (the waiter on the brewery) you’ll be in for a shock! In Cologne, nonetheless, everybody is aware of that that is the legendary Halve Hahn.
This can be a very fashionable snack in Cologne and is commonly served in pubs or cafes.
Kölsche Kaviar (Cologne Caviar)
Just like “Halver Hahn”, the specialty “Kölsche Kaviar” may additionally result in confusion. However in contrast to the extremely costly fish roe, this delicacy has completely nothing in widespread with it.
Kölsche caviar is a hearty portion of blood sausage, affectionately identified in Cologne as “Flönz”. This delicacy is served with a crispy “Röggelchen,” onion rings, and a beneficiant sprint of mustard – typically accompanied by a crunchy pickled gherkin.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Soorbrode) – Rhenish Sauerbraten
German delicacies has many conventional dishes, together with Sauerbraten. In case you observe the Rhenish recipe (identified in Cologne as “Soorbrode”), it’s refined with sweeteners akin to apple or turnip, and raisins are additionally added.
An vital reality: The meat for sauerbraten is normally horse. Nonetheless, many Cologne breweries and eating places use beef as a substitute out of consideration for his or her company.
This hearty braised dish is classically served with potato dumplings and applesauce, however sometimes boiled potatoes are additionally served.
Himmel un Äd
For these in search of extra hearty conventional dishes, there may be the “Himmel und Erde” (Heaven and earth), which is a dish made with mashed potatoes. A scrumptious variation is served in Cologne: Crispy fried blood sausage and roasted onions add a hearty taste to the potato and apple mash. Have it with a glass of Kölsch beer.
The dish, which takes its title from the widespread time period “Erdapfel” for potatoes – apples from the bottom – and the fruit on the timber within the sky, is an actual deal with for the palate.
Miesmuscheln – Moschele
It’s best to know that mussels are normally served solely from September to February. The background might be historic, at a time when there have been no fridges and it was too heat to retailer them.
The mussels are cooked in a broth of white wine and recent root greens with bay leaf and pimento, they’re merely scrumptious!
Bratwurst
One other common dishes in Cologne is the Bratwurst. This can be a sausage that’s served with both sauerkraut or mashed potatoes. It’s usually served with a facet of apple sauce and is a very fashionable dish for locals and guests alike.
Sausages, Pretzels and Sauerkraut
Cologne can be identified for its quite a few beers and ales, which are sometimes served with conventional German meals akin to sausages, pretzels, and sauerkraut.
Non-public 3-Hour Südstadt Meals Tour
Start your three-hour stroll within the coronary heart of Südstadt at Chlodwigplatz and immerse your self within the culinary secrets and techniques of the district earlier than having fun with your first tasting.
As you stroll, you’ll get a glimpse into the historical past of Südstadt. Cease for a global deal with and uncover cool thrift and curio retailers.
Then go to a conventional Cologne brewery and loosen up with a typical Cologne snack. Your information will share his insider information and let you know tales concerning the Balchem Home, St. Severin’s and even the “fallacious” a part of the Rhine financial institution.
On the finish of this tour of Cologne’s culinary tradition, you’ll expertise much more unique delicacies from everywhere in the world, together with a candy specialty!
Sophia is a incredible information with a heat character and a wealth of anecdotes. She has an intensive information of the Severinviertel and conveys it in a sympathetic manner. The tour presents a profitable mixture of culinary delights and historic background information – additionally extraordinarily thrilling for younger folks!
Good to know: Throughout this tour you’ll be accompanied by an skilled information and go to a complete of 5 worldwide eating places to take pleasure in a style of every. Please be aware that drinks aren’t included and should be bought individually.
High sights in Cologne
Cologne is a ravishing metropolis in Germany, crammed with wonderful sights which might be price seeing. Whether or not you’re exploring the town for the primary time or revisiting your favourite spots, listed below are the highest sights in Cologne that you simply gained’t need to miss.
Take a look at these Cologne actions out there on Get Your Information:
The Cologne Cathedral, protected by the UNESCO
Protected by UNESCO, Cologne’s Dom is the primary sight you’ll discover when taking the primary exit from the central station. (In case you don’t see it, you’ve taken the again exit.)
If you’re in good condition, take the 533 stairs to the highest of the south tower. It takes about 8-Quarter-hour to stand up and I might suggest to spend 45 – 60 minutes in complete, so put on snug footwear, nevertheless it’s definitely worth the hike. A panoramic view of the town awaits you as you climb to the highest of Cologne Cathedral. After about 53 meters you’ll go the Petersglocke – often known as the Cathedral Bell 1 and affectionately referred to as “Decker Pitter” by the locals. Since 1923, this bell has been the acoustic embodiment of the cathedral’s deep C-note.
Cologne Cathedral is a spot of superlatives. With a peak of 157 meters and an space of 10,000 sq. meters, it’s the third largest Gothic cathedral on the planet.
Round 20,000 folks go to it on daily basis and an unbelievable 300,000 tons of stone had been used!
Inside Cologne Cathedral there are numerous highlights to find that may encourage you. An absolute spotlight is the Shrine of the Three Kings, which is claimed to include the “relics of the Magi” – a minimum of if you wish to imagine it. Additionally spectacular is the 4th-century St. Peter’s Rod, which you’ll admire within the cathedral’s underground treasury, together with many different treasures akin to reliquaries, liturgical utensils, and manuscripts.
One other fascinating expertise are the stained glass home windows of the cathedral: they convey an unbelievable energy of shade to the inside of the constructing! With over 10,000 sq. meters of home windows, this sacred constructing truly has extra stained glass than every other church on the planet – a really magical place!
The price of sustaining the cathedral is round 30,000 Euros per day – a big sum, however properly justified for such a powerful sight.
The worth of the cathedral can hardly be expressed in financial phrases: it’s priceless and has subsequently been valued in accounting phrases at a symbolic worth of simply 27 Euros!
So as to preserve this distinctive place, about 100 folks work on the constructing on daily basis – they’re a part of the so-called “cathedral building crew”.
It’s not for nothing that the cathedral is sometimes called Germany’s UNESCO World Heritage Website; its significance extends far past its borders.
Touring the Cathedral is forbidden throughout Mass. Entry into the cathedral is free however you’ll be requested for a donation.
- Admission to the tower prices (common/lowered): €6/€3 (Household card: €12)
- Admission to the treasury prices (common/lowered): €6/€3,
- A mixed ticket granting you admission to the treasury and tower could be bought for (common/lowered): €9/€4.50. (Household combi card: €18)
- Entrance to climb the Cologne cathedral: Have a look at the majestic principal portal of the Cathedral and stroll in direction of Roncalliplatz, which is to the precise of the Cathedral whenever you have a look at it from the entrance. After just a few meters you’ll uncover a staircase that goes down subsequent to the South Tower and is marked “Dom-Turm / Parkhaus / Toiletten”. There you’ll discover as properly the doorway to the tower on the foot of the steps.
Cologne Cathedral: VR-Strolling Tour
Expertise a breathtaking journey that takes you from the medieval planning of the development to the current day. Uncover the story behind the development of the cathedral and be taught thrilling info concerning the constructing course of on this fascinating tour.
Because of a digital actuality headset, you’ll be immersed within the essential moments of building! Greater than only a historical past lesson, it’s an journey by means of centuries of awe-inspiring insights.
The tour will cowl a distance of 1.5 km, so put on snug footwear. Be aware, the tour doesn’t go contained in the cathedral, however solely across the exterior.
Worth: €23
Max group measurement: 15
Free cancelation till 24 hours earlier than your go to.
Skip the road.
Römisch-Germanisches Museum
The Römisch-Germanisches Museum is a museum devoted to archaeology and the historical past of Cologne. It’s one of many oldest museums in Germany and was based in 1912.
Inside, you’ll be able to discover collections of stone monuments, mosaics, and cash from the Roman interval. There are additionally sections devoted to medieval and fashionable artwork, together with a sculpture park.
The museum presents the chance to marvel on the archaeological heritage from the Paleolithic Age to the early Center Ages. The gathering holdings are distinctive and embody wealthy finds from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages, in addition to top-class goldsmith’s work from the Migration Interval.
As well as, the museum presents you insights into the artwork and tradition of Roman and early medieval cities and areas.
Notably spectacular is the world’s largest assortment of Roman glass vessels, which is taken into account essentially the most valuable treasure of the museum.
Worth: €6 (€3 lowered)
Kölner Philharmonie
Within the rapid neighborhood of Cologne Cathedral, and with that proper within the metropolis heart, you’ll discover the Live performance Corridor “Kölner Philharmonie“.
It’s one of the crucial famend live performance halls in Germany and it presents a various program of the good works of the symphonic and chamber music repertoire, in addition to jazz, people and pop occasions.
There’s a live performance on daily basis of the 12 months, and infrequently a number of on Sundays and holidays. The spectacular corridor is designed as an amphitheater, so that each seat has a superb view of the stage.
The corridor can be dwelling to the Gürzenich Orchestra and the Kölner Philharmoniker and its world-class acoustics makes it an ideal place to expertise dwell classical music.
Enjoyable reality
It’s not allowed to stroll on the plaza above the roof of the Philharmonie throughout live shows, as this is able to disturb the good acoustics. Skateboarding and bicycling are additionally prohibited to keep away from disturbing footsteps.
Insider tip
If you’re in Cologne on a Thursday and if you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the town at 12 midday… Then you must positively examine the Philharmonic Corridor to see if the “Philharmonic Lunch” is going down there. Be aware: Lunch will not be a meal, it’s simply lunchtime. Throughout this time, you’ve gotten the chance to hearken to an orchestra rehearsal for half-hour freed from cost and get an genuine impression of how the members put together. An actual insider’s tip for anybody – particularly since admission is free! Right here
Outdated City Cologne
Cologne’s historic Outdated City is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot that tends to avoid locals. However, a go to to the town is price a detour into the cobblestone streets and previous the historic homes and quite a few breweries.
Nonetheless, it’s finest to keep away from a weekend go to, because the outdated city is then usually overrun by bachelor events.
To get a great impression of Cologne’s outdated city, we suggest a relaxed stroll by means of the alleys between Heumarkt and Alter Markt and alongside the Rhine promenade.
Particularly attention-grabbing: Virtually 90% of Cologne’s outdated city was destroyed throughout World Battle II after which largely rebuilt within the outdated fashion – so many buildings aren’t as outdated as they appear!
Within the outdated city you’ll additionally discover the historic city corridor. You’ll be amazed by it, because it’s one of the crucial magnificent Renaissance buildings in all of Germany. The city corridor tower is especially noteworthy: its loving particulars had been faithfully rebuilt after the Second World Battle and provides it a singular magnificence.
Cologne Zoo
The Cologne Zoo is without doubt one of the oldest zoos in Germany and is dwelling to over 8,000 animals. It’s an ideal place to spend a day with household and buddies and is crammed with fascinating displays and points of interest.
The elephant park is undoubtedly one of many principal points of interest at Cologne Zoo and can be the biggest north of the Alps.
One other spotlight is the journey home Hippodom, which homes an intensive African river panorama – Nile crocodiles, Sitatunga antelopes and hippos, amongst others, dwell right here in a powerful setting.
Additionally very fashionable with guests is the Rainforest Home, which options endangered animals and vegetation from a pure paradise in Southeast Asia.
The jungle home for the good apes, however, presents company the chance to look at primates up shut with out disturbing them – a showcase undertaking of the Cologne Zoo for the entire of Europe!
For kids, the Clemenshof is a lovingly designed reproduction of a typical small farm with a petting zoo for uncommon native species.
And for those who like fish or reptile reveals, you’ll be able to see numerous species within the aquarium on three flooring!
Worth: € 23
Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00
Deal with: Riehler Straße 173, 50735 Cologne
KölnTriangle
You need to cross the river rhine to get right here. And it’s price taking this quick stroll, as you’ll get the very best views of the outdated city, the cathedral and the town from this facet of the river.
The KölnTriangle is a contemporary advanced situated near the Cologne Commerce Truthful. It homes museums, retailers, eating places, and workplaces, in addition to a big remark deck with panoramic views of the town.
The KölnTriangle is a superb spot to soak up the sights of the town and get a glimpse of the encompassing space.
Chocolate Museum in Cologne
The chocolate museum in Cologne is an absolute spotlight that you shouldn’t miss – regardless of if large or small!
In the course of the thrilling tour you’ll find out how uncooked cocoa is was a scrumptious praline. The journey begins within the tropical home and takes you from the harvest to the transport to the manufacturing unit.
Scrumptious tastings allow you to dive even deeper into the world of chocolate. Absolutely the spotlight of the museum, nonetheless, is undoubtedly the three-meter-high fountain with 200 kilograms of flowing chocolate, which you might be after all additionally allowed to style. Within the museum’s café, you’ll be able to take pleasure in varied chocolate specialties whereas having fun with a view of the Rhine.
Your newly acquired information concerning the historical past and manufacturing of chocolate will make you recognize the tip product rather more – that is what makes enjoyment actually enjoyable!
The Chocolate Museum’s sweet store presents a wide range of treats to take dwelling. Recent chocolate in a wide range of flavors and do-it-yourself goodies with a wide range of scrumptious fillings can be found. In case you’re a fan of hand-poured collectible figurines produced from the best chocolate, you’ll discover all kinds of artfully designed creations.
If in case you have time, create your personal chocolate variation and choose it up later. And for those who’re a fan of colourful cash, you’ll discover your favourite amongst these handmade delicacies!
Prices: Admission to the museum prices solely €14.50 for adults and €7.5 for youngsters underneath the age of sixteen; in the meantime, little guests underneath the age of six may even take pleasure in themselves free of charge!
Skip the road with this ticket!
What awaits you within the museum is actually incredible. The information texts are written in each German and English and the workers welcomes you with nice courtesy and friendliness. It seems like a journey by means of time as you stroll among the many goodies. And for those who get hungry, the restaurant presents numerous scrumptious desserts to select from.
Rheinauhafen
Simply subsequent to the Chocolate Museum you’ll have the Rheinauhafen.
Rheinauhafen, a former port facility in Cologne’s Südstadt district, has lengthy since change into a serious city improvement undertaking. The city quarter is fashionable and but characterised by historic buildings, leading to an enchanting combine.
The outdated port workplace and different remnants of the commercial previous have been transformed and now function workplace and repair buildings. Cafes, bars, and eating places additionally supply the chance for a soothing stroll.
Along with the picturesque marina, the three placing crane homes are a particular spotlight of the Rheinauhafen. With a peak of just about 60 meters, they not solely home workplaces, but additionally luxurious condominiums – a really distinctive residing idea!
Streetart Bike Tour Cologne
Embark on a road artwork bike tour that offers you a brand new perspective on Cologne!
Off the crushed monitor, you’ll discover the Belgian Quarter and Ehrenfeld with a most of 15 like-minded folks and a neighborhood information. Dive into the world of road galleries and expertise the town’s vibrant inventive scene up shut!
Throughout your tour, your English-speaking information will let you know all the pieces it’s worthwhile to learn about this fascinating artwork kind, in addition to background info on the person artists. This offers you a useful perception into how Cologne has developed over time into a colourful city jungle.
Every of our excursions is individually designed – as a result of no different metropolis tradition can match the colourful aptitude of this place. So seize your bike and let’s dive into the city allure of Cologne’s numerous road artwork scene!
Worth: €37
Period: 3 hours
Free cancelation as much as 24 hours earlier than
The tour contains:
- Use of metropolis bikes on tour
- Helmets (out there on request)
- English talking information
- Disposable rain ponchos (in case of unhealthy climate)
These are just some of the highest sights in Cologne. From historic landmarks to fashionable points of interest, there’s something for everybody to discover.
So be certain to take the time to discover the town and soak up all of its magnificence.
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