North Rhine Westphalia, Germany
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): A UNESCO World Heritage site and Germany's most visited landmark, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1248 and finished in 1880. It houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, a major pilgrimage site.
The main nave is open daily; check official website for hours. Entry to the main nave is free, donations welcome. The Treasury costs €6. Climb the South Tower (500+ steps) for panoramic city and Rhine views, costing €6. Guided tours are found, giving insights into its history and architecture. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Photography is generally allowed inside without flash.
Admire its imposing architecture from the outside, notably from the Rhine side or the Fischmarkt square, for striking views. Its less crowded interior gives a peaceful contrast to the bustling Cathedral.
Traces chocolate history from ancient origins to modern production, featuring a working mini chocolate factory and a chocolate fountain.
Numerous smaller art galleries, notably in the Belgian Quarter, feature contemporary art. Koelnmesse also stages major art fairs.
Renowned for its high-quality opera and ballet performances. Check their schedule.
A leading concert hall recognized for its excellent acoustics, staging classical music, jazz, and other musical events.
A large multi-purpose indoor arena that stages major concerts by international artists, large-scale sports, and entertainment shows.
Cologne's deep history is seen in its archaeological remains, reconstructed districts, and significant monuments.
Beneath the modern city, remains of Cologne's Roman past are accessible. Explore parts of the ancient palace and sophisticated sewer system. Access is typically near the Cathedral.
Ongoing excavations in the Old Town reveal preserved remains of Cologne's medieval Jewish Quarter, one of Europe's most significant. This complex also contains earlier Roman structures. A future museum will showcase these findings.
Largely rebuilt after WWII, the Altstadt's street layout and traditional houses reflect its historical character, giving a sense of the medieval city's charm. It is free to wander through.
Besides Great St. Martin, Cologne is home to eleven other Romanesque churches (e.g., St. Gereon's Basilica, St. Severin). Each church gives insights into medieval religious architecture and the city's rich ecclesiastical history.
Cologne Cathedral is the foremost religious site. The Twelve Romanesque Churches give a glimpse into the spiritual life and architectural ambition of medieval Cologne.
EL-DE Haus (NS-Dokumentationszentrum) served as Gestapo headquarters during the Nazi era. It is now a museum and documentation center that chronicles the Nazi period in Cologne and serves as a memorial to the victims.
This Victorian-era park combines a formal botanical garden with an ornate glasshouse complex, featuring diverse plant collections. Entry is free.
A large park on the east bank of the Rhine, with extensive recreational space and stunning panoramic views of the Cathedral and city skyline. Accessible via the Kölner Seilbahn (cable car).
One of Germany's oldest zoos, home to a wide variety of animals from around the globe, giving opportunities to see diverse wildlife in well-maintained enclosures.
The Cologne Cathedral Tower offers the best panoramic view directly from the city's most prominent landmark.
Beyond the well-known tourist spots, Cologne holds many less-frequented but equally rewarding sites.
These attractions give unique insights into the city's character and offer different perspectives for visitors.
Discover unique facets of Cologne away from the main tourist paths.
Explore less-visited architectural gems with historical significance.
See Cologne from a different vantage point with this overlooked aerial ride.
Experience authentic Cologne at places rarely visited by tourists.
Explore Cologne's beauty through these iconic scenes and outstanding locations.
Houses one of Europe's most important modern art collections, including Pop Art and a large Picasso collection. Adult admission is €16.
Find Tickets HereDedicated to Cologne's Roman and early medieval history. The main building is closed for renovation until around 2028. A temporary exhibition is found in the nearby Zeughaus.
Check Current ExhibitsPresents an extensive collection of European painting, spanning from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Adult admission is €12.
Book Your VisitLocated where Eau de Cologne was created in 1709. Guided tours are highly recommended, costing approximately €7.
Schedule a TourTraces the history of chocolate. Features a working mini chocolate factory and a chocolate fountain. Adult admission is €14.50.
Get Your TicketsDive into Cologne's ancient and medieval past through these significant locations.
Discover the architectural and spiritual heart of medieval Cologne.
The main Roman-Germanic Museum building is currently closed for extensive renovation, with reopening expected around 2028.
A temporary exhibition, "Cologne's Roman History," is housed in the nearby Zeughaus (Arsenal) during renovation. Check the official website for current status.
Cologne features green spaces and river views for relaxation and connection with nature.
A beautiful Victorian-era park combining a formal botanical garden with an ornate glasshouse complex, featuring diverse plant collections. Entry is free.
A large, expansive park on the east bank of the Rhine, opposite the Old Town. It has extensive recreational space and stunning panoramic views of the Cathedral and city skyline.
One of Germany's oldest zoos, home to a wide variety of animals from around the globe. It gives opportunities to see diverse wildlife in well-maintained enclosures.
The Cologne Cathedral Tower offers a prime panoramic view. KölnTriangle Panorama, an observation deck on the Deutz side, presents stunning 360-degree city views for approximately €5 admission.
See Tours & TicketsThe Rhine River is the central natural feature. Its promenades along both banks present pleasant walking or cycling routes. River cruises are also popular.
Book River CruisesA series of interconnected lakes in northern Cologne. A popular summer destination for swimming, rowing, and Stand-up paddleboarding.
Explore Water SportsA smaller park located near the Cathedral, serving as a memorial site for peace and reflection. A quiet space amidst the city bustle.
Learn MoreThese green spaces and waterways provide opportunities for relaxation and connection with nature within the urban environment.
Plan Your Outdoor DayDiscover unique attractions away from typical tourist paths.
Experience Cologne from different angles and local favorites.
For attractions and sightseeing, consider booking tours via GetYourGuide.
They offer various city tours, museum tickets, and unique experiences that enrich your visit to Cologne's landmarks and hidden gems.
These images highlight attractions, from historic landmarks to cultural spaces.
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture and Germany's most visited landmark.
Famous for its "love locks" and iconic views of the Cathedral.
Charming historic district with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses.
Explore the historic heart of Cologne.
Wander through the charming cobblestone streets and squares.
