Best Things To Do in Köln

With over 2000 years of history, Cologne is not only one of Germany's most popular tourist destinations but also one of the most photographed places in the world, especially because of its Catholic Cathedral which became the tallest building in the world and one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture.

However, Cologne has many more attractions to offer, including the Belgian Quarter, the historic city centre, the rich Ludwig Museum, Bruhl Castle and the Hohenzollern Bridge, which was very popular during the 20th century, when it was dynamited and later rebuilt. Here's everything you need to know about these sites.

Cologne Cathedral is one of Europe's most iconic Gothic monuments and a symbol of Germany. Its construction began in 1248 but was not completed until more than 600 years later, making it a masterpiece spanning centuries of history.

Designed to house the relics of the Magi, which are housed in a golden reliquary, the cathedral marks the city's kilometre zero. It suffered significant damage during World War II, but its structure was not damaged, making the building a symbol of resilience for the city and the country. The images of the 1946 Corpus Christi procession are famous, with the ruins of the cathedral in the background

Visible from almost anywhere in the city, at 157 metres high it is the third tallest church in the world . With stained glass windows dating from the 14th to 16th centuries, as well as a collection of sacred art and ancient mosaics, it is one of the places you will be most impressed by during your visit.

On the other hand, in the cathedral's surroundings there are several attractions that can complement your visit. One of the main activities is to climb the 533 steps that lead up to the south tower viewpoint, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Rhine River. Also, if you decide to buy a guided tour of Cologne, you will see Cologne from the outside and learn much more about its history from the guide.

Cologne's historic city centre is the heart of the city and one of the must-see places in Cologne. Stretching along the banks of the Rhine River, this vibrant area combines centuries of history with a lively, cultural atmosphere. Although much of Cologne was destroyed during World War II, the historic centre has been rebuilt, preserving its medieval essence and architectural beauty.

One of the main points of interest in the historic centre is the Cathedral, the city's most famous landmark. But it has much more. From there you can start your tour of the area, where you will also find other places of interest such as the Church of San Martín el Grande, the Town Hall Square and numerous restaurants and bars, where you can take part in a beer tour.

Visiting the old part of the city is one of the best ways to discover the soul of this destination. Also, if you are planning to book a private tour of Cologne, you can include this neighbourhood and all the nearby attractions, which are very remarkable.

If you want to get to know the alternative side of Cologne, then you can't miss the Belgian quarter, which is the bohemian corner of the city and the perfect place for those looking for an out-of-the-ordinary experience. This district is named after streets named after Belgian cities and regions, such as Brüsselstraße and Antwerpenstraße.

The district is known for its atmosphere and relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll to discover its authentic essence. Street art, independent design boutiques and cafés create an atmosphere that attracts locals, young people and tourists alike.

One of the best ways to explore the Belgian quarter is to book a bike tour in Cologne. The neighbourhood's cobblestone streets and wide avenues make cycling through it a comfortable and fun experience.

Another great reason to visit the neighbourhood is its cultural life. Walking along the cobblestone streets, you'll come across art galleries, local fashion shops and craft shops.

Bruhl Castle, located on the outskirts of Cologne, is an exceptional architectural gem in the rococo style. Built to be a luxurious residence and a symbol of ecclesiastical power, it is surrounded by gardens that were designed in the style of Versailles, which is why it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At Bruhl Castle you can tour the rooms decorated with frescoes, marble and ornamental details that reflect the splendour of 18th century nobility. The Staircase of Honour, designed by the architect Balthasar Neumann, is one of the most popular stops in the castle and a highlight of German rococo.

In the interiors you will also find the original furnishings, works of art and the castle chapel, which is in the Baroque style. In addition, during the summer months the palace hosts open-air concerts and other cultural events that add a cultural tinge to the visiting experience.

One of the main reasons to visit this site is the chance to enjoy its gardens, which offer ideal spots for strolling among sculptures, fountains and geometric labyrinths that reflect the French Baroque style of landscaping. Tickets for the castle are available at the ticket office, but if you want to save money you can buy the Koln Card, which includes this site in its extensive list of activities.

A cruise on the Rhine is one of the most iconic experiences you can have in Cologne, as this river has been the lifeblood of the city for centuries. Crucial to Germany's commercial and cultural development, the Rhine is also one of Europe's most important waterways, connecting multiple countries and cities along its course.

Since Roman times, the Rhine has been a vital hub for German transport and trade, and today it remains an essential artery flowing through the heart of the city, offering visitors a unique insight into its history and beauty. Embarking on a cruise will give you the opportunity to admire Cologne from a completely different perspective. In addition, some cruise options also offer on-board dining options.

Finally, a Rhine cruise is a great way to experience the essence of Cologne and its connection to this important river. Whether you choose a daytime cruise to enjoy the sights in the sunshine or a sunset cruise when the skyline lights up, cruising along this waterway will allow you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city while discovering its rich history and natural scenery.

The Cologne Zoo is one of the oldest and most respected zoos in Germany and remains one of the most popular destinations for visitors to the city. This haven is home to over 850 different animal species and with its combination of well-designed spaces, dedication to conservation and rich history, the zoo is a great place to explore, especially if you're planning to travel with children.

You'll find animals from every continent, from elephants and giraffes to meerkats and penguins, but the zoo also has an interactive area where children can feed goats and other farm animals, adding an educational and hands-on dimension to the visit . There is also a playground for the little ones to have fun and relax between walks through the different habitats.

Another reason I recommend booking tickets to Cologne Zoo is for its aquarium, which houses a collection of aquatic species from all over the world. Here you will find tropical fish, deep-sea creatures and reptiles that live both on land and in water. The aquarium also includes a section dedicated to insects, offering a comprehensive look at the most diverse and complex ecosystems on the planet.

If you want to see one of the best museums in Cologne, you can't miss the Ludwig Museum, which houses one of Germany's most prestigious exhibitions of modern art, with a special emphasis on pop art, expressionism and surrealism. Its building, located near the Cathedral and on the banks of the Rhine River, is a work of art in itself and a cultural landmark that attracts thousands of visitors every year.

The Ludwig Museum 's collection mainly includes works by Pablo Picasso with dozens of paintings, sculptures and drawings that cover the various stages of the Spanish genius, from his blue and pink periods to his cubist experimentations. The museum also houses one of the most important collections of pop art outside the United States, with iconic works by artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

Within German expressionism you can also find works by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, after whom the museum is named, and other members of the Die Brücke group, as well as displays of surrealist art with works by Max Ernst and René Magritte, among other exponents of this artistic movement.

Also, keep in mind that the Ludwig Museum is located in the historic centre of the city, so it is close to the main attractions and you can combine your visit with other activities in the area, such as booking a gastronomic tour of Cologne.

If you're a fan of alternative activities in the destinations you visit, then the Cologne Chocolate Museum is a must-see. This chocolate lover's paradise is one of the city's most popular attractions and offers an experience where you can immerse yourself in the history and production process of this sweet cocoa-based compound.

From the ancient methods of cultivating the raw material to modern industrial techniques, the museum has a range of exhibits detailing how this sweet treat has evolved over time. During the tour you will find a miniature chocolate factory where you can see all the stages of production in real time. You'll also see how cocoa beans are transformed into chocolate products

Booking a ticket to the Chocolate Museum is not only an opportunity to satisfy your cravings, but also to learn about the cultural and economic importance of cocoa in different parts of the world, although the best part of the exhibition is probably at the end. In a specially designed and decorated room you can participate in tastings and learn about a wide range of chocolate varieties.

The Hohenzollern Bridge is one of Cologne's landmarks and a must-see symbol of the city. This railway bridge crosses the Rhine and connects the historic city centre with the areas east of the river. Over the years, the bridge has witnessed many historic moments, including its partial destruction during World War II and its subsequent reconstruction.

One of the reasons why the Hohenzollern Bridge stands out is because of its architectural beauty. With its metal arches and early 20th century industrial design, the bridge combines functionality and aesthetics equally. Although it was originally designed for rail and pedestrian traffic, it is now exclusively for trains and pedestrians, making it an ideal place to discover the panoramic views.

The bridge is also famous for its romantic tradition. Thousands of couples from all over the world have left padlocks on the bridge's railings as a symbol of their eternal love, throwing the keys into the river Rhine as a gesture of commitment. This colourful phenomenon has given the bridge a special character and made it a favourite spot for lovers and tourists looking for a symbolic and photogenic experience on their visit to Cologne.

The KölnTriangle is a modern 103-metre-high tower on the banks of the Rhine River in Cologne, but it's also one of the best places to take in panoramic views of the city. From the observation deck here you can enjoy a 360-degree view that offers a full perspective of the skyline.

From the top of the KölnTriangle you can see, among other things, Cologne Cathedral, whose Gothic profile dominates the skyline. This is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the view, as it allows you to appreciate the magnitude and beauty of the cathedral from a different angle, making it ideal for taking photographs. However, you can also discover the Hohenzollern Bridge, as well as the Rhine River meandering through the city.

In addition to the most famous monuments, from the KölnTriangle you will be able to make out Cologne's old town with its colourful medieval houses, the modern buildings surrounding the city and, on a clear day, even the hills of the neighbouring regions.