Best Things To Do in Köln

With more than 2000 years of history, Cologne is not only one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany 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, among which are also the Belgian quarter, the historic city center, the large Ludwig Museum, the Bruhl Castle and the Hohenzollern Bridge, which was very popular during the twentieth century, when it was dynamited and later rebuilt. Below I tell you everything you need to know about these sites.

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

Designed to house the relics of the Magi, which are housed in a golden reliquary, the cathedral marks kilometer zero of the city. During World War II it suffered significant damage, although its structure was not damaged, so the building became 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 any point in the city, with its height of 157 meters it is the third tallest church in the world. With stained glass windows dating from the fourteenth to the sixteenth centuries, as well as a collection of sacred art and ancient mosaics, it is one of the sites that will most impact you during your tour.

On the other hand, in the surroundings of the cathedral there are several attractions that can complement your visit. One of the main activities is to climb the 533 steps leading to the viewpoint of the south tower, 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 it from the outside and learn much more about its history thanks to the guide.

The historic center of Cologne is the heart of the city and one of the places you can't miss in this destination. 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 center has been rebuilt, preserving its medieval essence and architectural beauty.

One of the main points of interest in the historic center is the Cathedral we have told you about, the most famous monument of the city. 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 St. Martin the Great, the Town Hall Square and numerous restaurants and bars, where you can participate in a beer tour.

Visiting the old part of the city is one of the best alternatives to discover the soul of this destination. Also, if you plan to hire a private tour of Cologne, you can include this neighborhood and all the nearby attractions, which are very outstanding.

If you want to get to know the alternative profile 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 neighborhood is known for its atmosphere and relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal place to stroll leisurely and 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 neighborhood's cobblestone streets and wide avenues make cycling through the neighborhood a comfortable and fun experience.

Another major reason to visit the neighborhood is its cultural life. As you walk along its cobblestone streets, you will come across art galleries, local fashion stores and craft stores.

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 World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

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

In addition, in the interiors you will find the original furnishings, works of art and the castle chapel, which is in the Baroque style. On the other hand, during the summer months the palace organizes 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 possibility of enjoying its gardens, which offer ideal places to stroll among sculptures, fountains and geometric mazes that reflect the style of French baroque landscaping. Tickets for the castle you can get them at the ticket office, but if you want to save money you can choose to buy the Koln Card tourist card, which includes this site in its extensive list of activities.

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

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

Finally, a Rhine cruise is an excellent way to experience the essence of Cologne and its connection to this important river. Whether you choose a daytime cruise to enjoy the sights under the sun or a sunset cruise when the skyline lights up, cruising 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 animals of more than 850 different species, and with its combination of well-designed spaces, dedication to conservation and rich history, the zoo is an excellent option to explore, especially if you plan to travel with children.

Here 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 the Cologne Zoo is for its aquarium, which houses a collection of aquatic species from all over the world. There you will find tropical fish, deep ocean creatures and reptiles that inhabit both land and 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 visit one of the best museums in Cologne, you cannot miss the Ludwig Museum, which houses one of the most prestigious modern art exhibitions in Germany, with special emphasis on pop art, expressionism and surrealism. Likewise, 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 includes, mainly, 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. In addition, the museum 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, who gives his name to the museum, and other members of the Die Brücke group, as well as samples 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 center 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 are a fan of alternative activities in the destinations you visit, then you can't miss the Chocolate Museum in Cologne. 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 ancient methods of cultivating the raw material to modern industrial techniques, the museum features 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 will 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 hall 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 symbol of the city that you can't miss. This railway bridge crosses the Rhine and connects the old town with the areas east of the river. Over the years, the bridge has witnessed historic moments, including its partial destruction during World War II and its subsequent reconstruction.

One of the reasons 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 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 Rhine River as a gesture of commitment. This colorful phenomenon has given the bridge a special character and makes it a favorite spot for lovers and tourists looking for a symbolic and photogenic experience on their visit to Cologne.

The KölnTriangle is a modern 103-meter-high tower located 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 of this site you can enjoy a 360-degree view that offers a full perspective of the skyline.

From the top of the KölnTriangle you will be able to contemplate among other points the 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, being ideal for taking pictures. 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 can make out the old town of Cologne with its colorful medieval houses, the modern buildings surrounding the city and, on clear days, even the hills of the neighboring regions.