Get a glimpse of the marvels of Cologne, Germany. Explore the top activities to do and sights to see in Cologne, Germany, to make the most of your time there. Get the most out of your vacation by exploring the best things to do in Cologne, Germany, and the best places to visit in Cologne, Germany, below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.
Table Of Content
- Belgian Quarter
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Triangle
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
- Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln
- Fragrance Museum
- Hahnen Gate
- Hohenzollern Bridge
- Hyatt Regency Cologne
- Little Link
- Ludwig Museum
- Maria Eetcafe
- Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln
- Ns Documentation Center
- Schildergasse Street
- The Roman-Germanic Museum
- Time Ride VR Cologne
- Wallraf-Richartz Museum
- Explore Europe
Belgian Quarter
On a difficult day, a stress-free environment is essential.
It’s a trendy neighborhood featuring galleries, pubs, theaters, live music venues, cafes, and boutiques selling vintage apparel and artisan things.
Away from the crowds and bustle of the main retail streets, Hohe Straße and Schildergasse, the Belgian Quarter “Belgisches Viertel” invites you to linger and explore in a peaceful setting.
The spectacular apartments, located in antique mansions that beautify the streets, are a must-see.
The Belgian Quarter’s attraction originates largely from its creative, almost bohemian atmosphere, which stems from a large number of young creatives and artistic spirits that live and work here.
Murals and stencil art cover street corners, lampposts, and garage doors. Still, the medium is also represented in a few galleries.
The Belgian Quarter stores offer high-quality off-mainstream apparel and designer labels under the general motto “Quality before Quantity.” You’re guaranteed to find your favorite outfit here, whether it’s clothes, shoes, or accessories.
A beautiful day for unwinding. Don’t forget to visit this Quarter!
Address: Brüsseler Straße 50672 Köln Deutschland
Cologne Cathedral
The second-highest structure in Cologne.
Cologne Cathedral is a magnificent structure that serves as the city’s heart and icon.
The Cathedral has almost 8,000 square meters of floor space and can seat over 20,000 people.
It is recognized as an outstanding example of German Gothic architecture. It is one of Western Europe’s most popular medieval Christian art sites in all its glory.
The Cathedral stands 157 meters tall and contains numerous hidden treasures and some of Europe’s most important works of Biblical art.
The remarkable stained-glass windows and countless other noteworthy pieces of art attract the majority of travelers to this Cathedral.
The Cathedral is also notable for its statuary, steep gables, a unified succession of spires, and blind tracery.
It holds multiple records and “firsts,” and it is frequently at the top of the bucket lists of many European travelers. Don’t miss it out!
Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
Cologne Chocolate Museum
Did you know Hans Imhoff is a passionate chocolate maker with a lifelong dream? A chocolate museum with a never-ending supply of chocolate.
The Chocolate Museum first opened its doors on October 31, 1993. Nobody anticipated it to become a museum masterpiece in Germany.
With an estimated 600,000 visitors each year, it is Cologne’s most visited cultural institution.
The past and contemporary global story of cocoa and chocolate are depicted in detail over more than 4,000 m2 of floor space. The complexities of cocoa’s cultural legacy and modern chocolate manufacture, from the cocoa bean to praline chocolate treats, are presented.
Interactive exhibitions, mold collections, historic chocolate boxes and wrappers, and free chocolate fountain sampling. You can even see chocolate being made on a working production line.
The museum itself is worthwhile, particularly if you enjoy chocolate and want to learn more about its history and cultural significance. The working Lindt plant is one of the best parts! You can see the chocolate being created from beginning to end.
Get a chance to create your own chocolate bar!
Address: Am Schokoladenmuseum 1A, 50678 Köln, Alemanya
Cologne Triangle
See the panoramic view of Cologne!
The KölnTriangle skyscraper was limited to just over 100 meters. No constructions were permitted to interfere with the city’s skyline.
Its panoramic observation deck on the Rhine’s right bank provides a stunning view of the old town, cathedral towers, and the 266-meter Colonius communications tower behind it.
Natural ventilation is provided by a double-glazed façade on the south side of the building. In the shape of a Realeaux triangle, the construction consists of three convex arching sides that encircle a round core.
Outside space is provided on the observation deck, which is shielded from the elements by glass panels. You may safely take in the scenery while feeling the force of the wind and listening to the silent traffic below you on the ground level.
You can dine in the rooftop restaurant while admiring the spectacular view!
For a beautiful overview, go when the sun is setting! Bring your loved ones to make it even more memorable.
Address: Ottopl. 1, 50679 Köln, Alemanya
Cologne Zoological Garden
Home of 10,000 creatures and the oldest zoological park in Germany.
The zoo spans 20 hectares (50 acres). It is open and worth visiting in any weather as the zoo is indoor.
It is one of Europe’s most diverse, with the tagline “passionate about animals.”
This zoo is great for kids because it allows them to learn a lot about different animals.
One of the main attractions is the elephant park that has debuted in 2004.
Towards the north of the Alps, it is the largest mountainous region.
The perfect day is rounded out with daily feeding events for meerkats, raccoons, sea lions, and other animals.
The air show concluded with a stunning showcase of some of the unique birds playing in their vast playground area.
This is one of the oldest zoological parks, with the largest animal collection in Germany.
An aquarium is also located close to the zoo, which is included in the admission fee. It introduces a diverse underwater world teeming with marine life such as tropical fish, starfish, and seahorses.
Discover the Cologne collection!
Address: Riehler Str. 173, 50735 Köln, Alemanya
Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom
Live like a queen at one of Cologne’s luxury hotels!
The Excelsior has long been a hallmark of elegance in Cologne’s core. It has been one of the best and most popular places to stay in town!
For nearly 150 years, guests have been entertained at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst. It is a true luxury to be free of time’s obligations and completely forget about them.
It’s fantastic to have extra time. Experience this in one of our 136 rooms and suites.
Come here if you’re looking for a unique setting for special occasions such as weddings, meetings, and presentations! The Excelsior Hotel Ernst offers eight elegantly furnished function rooms.
All of the major attractions, including the Philharmonic Hall and other prominent museums and theaters, are easily accessible by foot.
It offers award-winning cuisine and modern accommodations that include a complimentary minibar.
Tea and coffee, fresh pastries, cocktails, a cigar lounge, and live piano music are available at The Piano Bar.
This location is highly recommended for visitors to Cologne! Make your reservation now!
Address: Trankgasse 1-5, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln
Find happiness in a natural environment.
The Flora opened in 1864 in the historicist style, based on the ideas of Bonn garden architect Peter Josef Lenné.
On approximately 11.5 hectares, enjoy the beautiful art of many garden types. Two medieval gatehouses flank Flora’s entry, framed by a French Baroque parterre with a fountain and changing Flora.
Plants from throughout the world are displayed in visually appealing display plants. In addition to the vast collection of unusual and exotic plants and shrubs, botanical specialties are shown in the Alpinum, Iris Garden, Liliengarten, and other unique gardens.
This huge complex is home to around 10,000 plant species. It allows people to go on leisurely walks while learning about Flora and flowers.
As you go through the tropical greenhouses and the Palm House, you’ll feel like you’re in a rainforest.
Live your life like a flower that blossoms on a beautiful day!
Address: Alter Stammheimer Weg, 50735 Köln, Alemanya
Fragrance Museum
A journey begins with a spray.
Admire the 300-year-old history of fragrance and culture, beginning with the world of Rococo in the Duftmuseum in Farina-House.
You can enter a perfumer’s world in the “Fragrance Chamber.” If you want, you can inhale the aromas of various essences.
You’ll be inside the world’s oldest complete perfume factory, which belonged to the Italian-born perfumer Johann Maria Farina.
It covers the rise of the family’s perfume dynasty and provides an intriguing look into scent-making throughout the years.
The museum displays various pieces of machinery, such as equipment used for distillation. Also, it displays images and records that demonstrate evolution.
Learn and understand about Ms. Giovanni Maria Farina and the evolution of eau de cologne perfumes, from their Rococo origins to their growing popularity in this museum.
If you appreciate perfume, take advantage of this opportunity to discover how it is manufactured. Visit right now!
Address: Obenmarspforten 21, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
Hahnen Gate
Massive medieval doorway.
A 7-meter-high wall was constructed between the twelfth and thirteenth centuries to accommodate the city’s continued growth.
The wall was initially enlarged in the tenth century and then again in 1106.
If you look at it, you will imagine it seems like a small castle from the outside due to its design, but it is actually a wall or doorway.
The west gate of Cologne was the most important of the twelve gates that allowed people to enter the city.
In the center of the Hahnentorburg are two semicircular towers with crenellations. The top of the door represents the city’s coat of arms, and a memorial plaque outside the former city walls honors the architect’s work on the creation of Neustadt.
It is a huge late Romanesque structure that is made out of a vaulted passageway and two defensive towers for defense.
You can see that they are decorated with natural materials such as limestone, sandstone, greywacke, etc.
Address: Rudolfpl. 1, 50674 Köln, Alemanya
Hohenzollern Bridge
Love locks turn to lifetime.
Lovers who want to be together forever can mark their padlocks with their names, fastening the locks together and hanging them on the bridge’s wall. Representing the everlasting power of their attachment to one another.
The bridge is made up of 340 railing sections that are similar to chain link fences and thus provide a perfect location for padlocks to be attached.
Each part is adorned with 800 to 1,200 love locks. As a result, a reasonable estimate would be 340,000 padlocks in total.
The padlocks have become a memorable part of the cityscape, and removing them seems impossible anymore.
The bridge is one of the city’s most romantic places, with locals, visitors, and even the occasional celebrity going to Cologne to forever seal their love.
Their stories remain hidden in their murky depths but indicate the strength of their devotion to one another is unstoppable.
What are you waiting for? Invite your partner and bring your padlocks, as love never fails!
Address: 50679 Cologne, Alemanya
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Hyatt Regency Cologne
It is a great location to relax, but it is also a great spot to celebrate special occasions!
Because of its views of the Cologne Cathedral, Old Town, and the Rhine River, the Hyatt Regency Cologne is a perfect spot to stay during your vacation to Cologne.
The Hyatt Regency Cologne is the ideal location for your next meeting or event. The event professionals are here to meet and even surpass your expectations.
The Hyatt Regency Cologne has three restaurants and a bar, allowing guests to converse while enjoying a delightful meal or drink on the Rhine River.
There are 306 guestrooms and suites in all, some of which have stunning views of Cologne Cathedral. Club-level rooms are also available.
While working at one of the room’s large work tables with complimentary Wi-Fi, enjoy the highest level of resting luxury in one of the Hyatt Grand BedsTM.
Make your reservation now before you run out of available slots!
Address: Kennedy-Ufer 2A, 50679 Köln, Alemanya
Little Link
A nod and a wink for little Link!
There is a wonderful assortment of alcoholic beverages and a really homey atmosphere with one of the most professional and welcoming bar staff.
Little Link is the place to go for expensive drinks, Grünfeld is the place to go for Kölsch foosball battles, and Sixpack is the place to go for a last drink and dance as everything else begins to wind down.
You can have handmade sandwiches, freshly brewed coffee, and of course, ice-cold beverages to go.
Customers can pay in advance via PayPal or on the spot with a credit card, EC card, or cash.
After a good meal, this is a perfect place to hang out!
Allow the bartenders to create something special for you or recommend what to order so that you may enjoy it more.
You can also order many of their foods and drinks to be taken away with you or delivered to your home.
Have some fun while drinking!
Address: Maastrichter Str. 20, 50672 Köln, Alemanya
Ludwig Museum
An extensive collection of photography that you should see.
Hosting the first comprehensive retrospective on the Japanese American sculptor Isamu Noguchi in over twenty years. With 150 works, it covers all of Noguchi’s creative periods and practices and presents him as an experimental and politically engaged artist.
The Museum Ludwig’s graphics collection includes over 3,000 drawings and nearly 10,000 prints. One focus is Expressionism, and another is Picasso’s artworks.
It has an important and extensive collection of photography from the early days of the medium to the present and was one of the first museums of modern and contemporary art to devote a separate collection to photography.
The collection has been expanded into the present with purchases and donations of works by Jeff Wall, Wolfgang Tillmans, and Sherrie Levine, to name a few.
Everyone should see this! It’s not like other museums where you can see sculptures and such, but instead a collection of prints, artworks, and photography samples.
Address: Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
Maria Eetcafe
Featuring one of the best Belgian beers in town.
This restaurant is well-known in the local community for the excellent Belgian beer, whiskey, and bitterness they provide.
Maria Eetcafé is also a popular gathering spot overlooking the plaza in front of Köln West train station. The warm interior is furnished with an unusual collection of Mary and baby Jesus miniatures.
This restaurant serves Dutch snacks such as bitter ballen and frikandel and patatje special and oorlog.
On the menu, you’ll find some of your favorite dishes from Belgium, and the Netherlands, such as thick-cut fries served with fritessaus, frikandel, kipcorn, and Belgian waffles for dessert.
Come to this restaurant first if you want to remember Stadtgarten. Here, you may indulge in delicious Belgian food such as excellent kibbeling, frikandel, and bitterballen.
You should get a taste of it because once you do, you won’t be able to forget how good it was!
Address: Hans-Böckler-Platz 1-3, 50672 Köln, Alemanya
Museum für Angewandte Kunst Köln
The story of the evolution of the arts.
The Museum of Applied Arts Cologne is based in the former Wallraf Richartz Museum. There’s an 18th-century chinoiserie cabinet by master cabinetmaker David Roentgen, a 1700s allegorical tapestry of Africa, and 5,000 years of Rhine jewels.
Exhibitions and a wide range of events constantly draw a crowd and represent the different interests of visitors, which vary from architecture and photography to handicrafts and current design.
In chronological order, furniture, weapons, jewelry, ceramics, puppets, tapestries, and modern examples of industrial design are on show.
The permanent exhibition, “Art and design in interaction,” displays the intricate interconnectedness between industrial design and contemporary artistic achievements against the backdrop of modern and art history.
With a collection of 100,000 creative art pieces from antiquity to the present, you’ll be amazed at how well these items have survived.
Take advantage of this opportunity to see one of Cologne’s stunning museums.
Address: An d. Rechtschule 7, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
Ns Documentation Center
The representation of Nazis in “Gestapo Prison.”
This prominent memorial depicts National Socialist (Nazi) horrors, especially for citizens of Cologne.
The center, a memorial, interactive museum, and research facility, is built in the exact building where Gestapo prisoners were imprisoned.
The NS-Documentation Center is possibly the first institution in the world to provide a 360-degree tour of the Memorial and permanent exhibit, both of which are complemented by an audio guide in eight languages.
Every exhibition media station offers a broad range of content in the form of film and audio, which is also available online for people who cannot attend the exhibition in person.
Accessing the actual prison cells in the basement, with convicts’ inscriptions engraved onto the walls, is the scariest experience.
The institute attempts to put a human face on the effects of the police state on both Germans and occupied countries through personal experiences.
If you are interested in Nazi life and its impact, you should visit the City of Cologne’s NS Documentation Centre.
Address: Appellhofpl. 23-25, 50667 Köln, Germany
Schildergasse Street
When visiting Schildergasse, you must go shopping!
Schildergasse Street is one of Europe’s busiest shopping streets. It is a lively car-free pedestrian zone brimming with global retail stores and cutting-edge architecture.
15,000 tourists walk through, enjoying the high-priced luxury labels and landmarks such as the Antoniterkirche, Cologne’s oldest Protestant church, and the spectacular Peek & Cloppenburg Weltstadthaus.
Other significant department stores along Schildergasse include Galeria Kaufhof, H&M, and Zara. There are also plenty of shoe retailers.
The streets surrounding Schildergasse are also excellent for shopping.
This is a busy and active pedestrian high street with many stores that you will like. Everything from eccentric clothing to high-end stores may be found here.
Bring your buddies to this location to enjoy some window shopping! Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or gifts for yourself or your family, numerous options are available to purchase.
You will definitely enjoy this place! Visit now!
Address: Schildergasse, 50667 Koln, Germany
The Roman-Germanic Museum
Walk slowly, but listen attentively.
The world’s most extensive collection of Roman glass vessels is housed here. The Diergardt Collection’s exquisite goldsmith works, and artifacts from Germanic and equestrian nomad peoples from all over Europe are among the most precious things on display.
The museum’s collections are drawn from the city’s archaeological record and its environs, covering prehistory to the early Middle Ages. Stone tools dating back 100,000 years from the Kartstein cave in the Eifel are among the earliest findings.
Moreover, the museum is built over the Roman town villa and contains the world-famous Dionysus mosaic.
It displays art, culture, and daily life in Roman and early medieval Cologne.
Furthermore, the museum is also in charge of monument conservation and archaeological preservation in compliance with the heritage protection regulations of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Architectural elements, inscriptions, portraits, ceramics, and other artifacts reflect the growth of the ancient city.
The museum is also a research facility, including archives on the city’s archaeology, extensive data on historical monuments, and a specialized library with 30,000 volumes.
Allow your thoughts to expand as you view one of the most outstanding Roman collections!
Address: Roncallipl. 4, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
Time Ride VR Cologne
Immerse yourself in the Golden Twenties Cologne using Virtual Reality!
Check out Time Ride VR Cologne to discover more about Cologne’s history.
The experience begins with a film recounting historical events in Cologne, followed by a virtual reality journey on an electric tram through medieval Cologne.
TimeRide will take you on an exciting journey through time, allowing you to explore the unspoiled city of Cologne and the fascinating way of life in the roaring twenties!
You will discover the thrilling time following the end of World War I, the British occupation, and the Spanish flu with the beautiful hatter Tessa and the Cologne streetcar driver Pitter.
Particularly for children who often lose interest in studying history, this is one of the more interesting ways to study it!
This is a must-try for you to enjoy and explore! There are also varieties of choices to see from virtual reality!
Address: Alter Markt 36-42, 50667 Köln, Germany
Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Discover and explore one of the world’s largest collections of medieval paintings, including paintings by Van Gogh, Munch, Monet, and others.
Thanks to photographs from the Fondation Corbould, the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum’s most extensive collection of impressionist and neo-impressionist art in Germany.
The exhibits, which comprise a wide range of art genres, are divided into three broad sections and are scattered throughout three levels of the museum.
The lowest floor houses Middle Ages artwork, mainly panel paintings from the Cologne School of painting (1350-1550). The second level of the museum is assigned to Renaissance and Baroque art. In contrast, the third level is dedicated to 19th-century paintings and sculptures.
The Graphic Cabinet exhibits master sheets from the museum’s rich collection, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rubens, Max Liebermann, Auguste Rodin, and others.
This is a must-see for everyone who loves art. It will astound you how wonderful they are. Plan now!
Still wondering if you should visit Cologne, Germany? Hop over to reasons to visit Cologne, Germany, at least once in your lifetime here
Address: Obenmarspforten 40, 50667 Köln, Alemanya
