North Rhine Westphalia, Germany
Witness the city's extraordinary recovery from war, a testament to determination.
Experience the unique Kölsch culture and the communal spirit in a traditional Brauhaus.
Appreciate millennia of history, from Roman foundations to its Gothic masterpiece.
Support local artisans and independent businesses by purchasing souvenirs directly from them.
Utilize public transportation extensively. Participate in the "Pfand" recycling system.
Respect local customs, traditions, and noise levels. Be mindful of privacy when taking photos.
Cologne's central location in Europe sets an excellent starting point for further adventures.
Each season brings a distinct ambiance, from festive Christmas markets to lively summer Rhine cruises.
Cologne always presents new facets of its enduring charm and welcoming spirit on repeat visits.
Different times of year capture the Cathedral and cityscapes in varied lights and settings. (Skillshare for photography courses).
Visit nearby towns for diverse beer styles and brewing traditions.
Day trips to the Mosel or Ahr valleys offer stunning vineyards and wine experiences.
The Rhine Valley beyond Cologne showcases numerous castles and picturesque scenery.
Attend local festivals or concerts beyond peak tourist times for an authentic experience.
Explore residential areas to see local life and discover hidden gems.
Seek out opportunities to interact with locals, for instance in community centers or cafes.
Choose products with minimal packaging and reuse water bottles and shopping bags to lessen waste.
Digital resources simplify your travel experience and aid your exploration.
The official app for Cologne's public transport. Grants real-time schedules and route planning.
Germany's national train app by Deutsche Bahn for intercity and regional train journeys.
An indispensable app for navigation, offering detailed maps for various travel modes.
Overcome language barriers and stay informed with these tools.
Free Now / Uber: Useful for booking licensed taxis or ride-sharing services; provides cashless payment.
KölnTourismus GmbH: The official tourism website for Cologne (koelntourismus.de) offers comprehensive information on attractions and events.
Museum Websites: Check individual museum sites for current exhibition schedules, opening hours, and admission fees.
Stay connected and discover more about your destination.
Follow official Cologne tourism accounts for real-time updates. Search for podcasts on German history or travel.
Consider Rick Steves' Germany for a comprehensive guide. A physical city map is helpful for navigation.
Look for books on Cologne's history. Pick up free city guides or cultural event magazines upon arrival.
Knowing whom to contact in an emergency holds main importance for your safety.
For immediate police assistance.
Pan-European emergency number; operates without a SIM card.
Cologne has major hospitals, including University Hospital Cologne (Uniklinik Köln).
Report lost/stolen documents to local police (110); contact your embassy for replacements.
Locate your country's embassy in Berlin and any German consulates before your trip.
Follow local authority advisories; information broadcasts on local media and warning apps.
For general historical context, "A Brief History of Germany" provides a good overview. Local bookstores in Cologne may carry English versions of local history books or fiction set in the city.
