Cologne: must visit places

The main attraction of the city is the majestic Cologne Cathedral, one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in the world. Its incredible spires and details have become a symbol of Cologne. Next to the cathedral is the old Altstadt quarter with its narrow streets, medieval buildings, and cozy cafes.

In addition to gastronomic delights, Cologne is known for its festivals, including the carnival, which is one of the largest in Europe. During the carnival, the city turns into a vibrant festival with masks, music, parades and a festive atmosphere.

Train connection to Cologne

Check where you can get to Cologne by train:

Landmarks of Cologne

Old Town (Altstadt)

The old town of Cologne is a real gem of Germany, fascinating with its unique atmosphere and historical heritage. Located on the banks of the picturesque Rhine River, it is an amazing combination of medieval architecture and modern urban rhythm.

The heart of the Old Town is the famous Cologne Cathedral, one of the most grandest Gothic buildings in the world. Its slender spires reaching into the sky are a symbol of the city and attract millions of tourists every year. Here you can find many cozy cafes, restaurants and shops selling traditional German souvenirs.

Ringstrasse Square with its old Baroque and Neo-Renaissance buildings deserves special attention. It is here that the town hall, museums, and other attractions are located, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history of Cologne.

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

Cologne Cathedral is one of the largest and most recognizable Gothic cathedrals in the world. It is located in the heart of the German city of Cologne, on the banks of the Rhine River. The majestic spires of the cathedral, reaching a height of more than 150 meters, dominate the cityscape, giving Cologne a special medieval charm.

The construction of the cathedral began in 1248 and lasted almost 600 years, until 1880. The slender columns hold up the arches over 45 meters high, and the painted windows flood the room with warm light. Cologne Cathedral attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and feel the atmosphere of the centuries-old shrine.

Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum)

The Schokoladenmuseum is a unique museum complex dedicated to the history, production and culture of one of the world’s favorite sweets, chocolate.

The museum offers a fascinating journey into the world of chocolate, where visitors can learn about the origin of cocoa beans, the chocolate production process, and get acquainted with different varieties of this delicacy. The museum’s exposition is presented in an interactive form, so guests can not only observe but also directly participate in some stages of production.

The heart of the museum is a huge chocolate factory where you can watch real master chocolatiers at work. Different types of chocolate are made here, from traditional to unique, experimental varieties. Visitors can also try themselves as chocolatiers, creating their own chocolate products.

Rheinauhafen district

This modern port district, located in the Rhine recreational area, combines old warehouse buildings with ultra-modern offices and residential complexes, including the famous «Cranhaus» - buildings resembling giant cranes. Stroll along the promenade, enjoying views of the river and the surrounding architecture.

Botanical Garden Square (Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln)

The Botanical Garden in Cologne has more than 10,000 native and exotic plant species in its outdoor and greenhouse areas. In the center of the botanical complex, opened in 1864, there is a building called ,,Flora’’. The landscape zone illustrates how the craft of gardening and the understanding of landscape design has changed over 150 years. The flora has an extensive list of exotic trees that were planted in the year the park was founded.

Nippes district in Cologne

The Nippes district is one of the most popular and interesting neighborhoods in Cologne. It is known for its diversity, unique atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Located on the left bank of the Rhine, Nippes is characterized by cozy streets, green parks and numerous historic buildings.

Ehrenfeld street art district

The Ehrenfeld street art district in Cologne is an example of how art can transform an ordinary urban space into a vibrant, dynamic environment. Located in a former working-class neighborhood, Ehrenfeld is now a center of street art, where building walls have become canvases for hundreds of bright, creative murals.

Walking through the streets of this neighborhood, visitors are immersed in a real open-air gallery. Artists from all over the world come here to leave their mark, turning the Ehrenfeld into an ever-changing, living museum.

Along with murals, the streets of Ehrenfeld are filled with creative shops, galleries, cafes and bars, creating the atmosphere of quarter. Here you can find unique designer items, vintage clothing and unusual souvenirs, as well enjoy delicious food and drinks in cozy establishments.

Ludwig Museum in Cologne

The Ludwig Museum is an art museum, one of the most important museums of contemporary art in Europe, known for its collection of works by avant-garde artists of the 20th century.

The museum was opened in 1986 and is located in a modern building designed by renowned architect Joshua Reichert. The exterior of the building is characterized by large glass windows and simple geometric shapes that blend harmoniously into the surrounding urban environment.

The museum’s collection impresses with its diversity and quality. It features works by such prominent artists as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Joseph Beuys, Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and many others. Works of Cubism, Expressionism, Pop Art and other avant-garde trends are particularly valuable.

Zoo in Cologne (Kölner Zoo)

The Cologne Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Germany, located in the heart of the city of Cologne. Founded in 1860, it covers an area of more than 20 hectares and has about 7,000 animals representing more than 700 species.

Zoo visitors can enjoy fascinating exhibits where animals live in a natural environment close to their natural range. From spacious enclosures for elephants and rhinos to cozy habitats for small mammals and birds. The highlight of the zoo is its unique thematic zones, such as «Africa», «Asia» and «South America», where you can see examples of the fauna of these continents

Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke)

The Hohenzollern Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in Germany, crossing the Rhine River in Cologne. Built in 1907-1911, it has become an important part of the city’s transportation infrastructure, connecting the two banks of the Rhine.

The bridge impresses with its grandeur and architectural beauty. It offers a magnificent view of the Cologne Cathedral, which stands nearby, forming a breathtaking panorama.

Südstadt quarter

The Südstadt is a lively and attractive residential district in the heart of Cologne. Located south of the city center, Südstadt has a calm and cozy atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. The quarter is characterized by a harmonious combination of old 19th century buildings and modern architecture. The narrow tree-lined streets create an atmosphere of peace and comfort. Here you can find numerous cafes, restaurants and shops offering a wide range of delicious food, drinks and locally produced goods.

Traditional cuisine of Cologne

Cologne cuisine is known for its traditional dishes and drinks. Here you should definitely try the local Kölsch beer, a light, refreshing beer that is considered the pride of the city. Other popular dishes include Schweinshaksche (roasted pork knuckle), Flamkuchen (thin pizza with various fillings), and chocolate-based desserts.

Here are some traditional dishes and cuisine features of Cologne, Germany:

🔹 Kölner Bratwurst – small, thin fried sausages, usually served with mustard and bread 🔹 Schweinshaxe (Schweinshaxe) – baked pork leg, often served with mashed potatoes and sauerkraut 🔹 baked potato salad (Kölner Kartoffelsalat) – boiled potato salad dressed with mayonnaise, vinegar, onions and spices 🔹 sausage soup (Kölner Reibekuchen) – thick soup with sausages, potatoes, onions and spices 🔹 Cologne mustard sauce (Kölner Senfsauce) – a thick mustard sauce that is served with a variety of dishes 🔹 Cologne beer (Kölsch) is a light, golden beer, which is the hallmark of the city 🔹 Cologne strudel (Kölner Streuselkuchen) – a sweet cake made of yeast dough, sprinkled with crumbs.

Cologne cuisine is known for its simple but delicious dishes, often accompanied by Kölsch beer. Many local recipes are passed down from generation to generation.

Top 5 restaurants in Cologne worth visiting:

🔹 Cafe Sehnsucht is a cozy and inviting cafe known for its delicious homemade cookies and coffee. Located in a charming corner of the city, it is the perfect place for locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy a great selection of dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

🔹 Buur Cafe is known for its artisanal coffee, freshly baked pastries and friendly atmosphere. Located in a lively district, it is a favorite place where visitors can enjoy high-quality drinks and delicious snacks while immersed in a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

🔹 OX Royal is a first-class steakhouse known for its high-quality cuts of meat and elegance. This restaurant offers a pleasant atmosphere, delicious food and impeccable service.

🔹 Stadtsalat is a vibrant salad bar offering a diverse selection of fresh salads made to order. The restaurant offers a variety of nutritious ingredients and flavorful dressings, making it a favorite among visitors where taste and health are a priority.

🔹 St. Louis Breakfast is a beloved diner in the heart of the city, celebrated for its delicious breakfast offerings served with a side of warm hospitality. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets and crispy bacon, it's the perfect spot to start your day with a hearty meal and a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Cologne is a city with a rich history, remarkable architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly character that attracts millions of tourists every year. Plan your trip to this wonderful city.