Exploring Cologne: Can You Get By Without A Car?

Cologne is a city in Germany known for its 2,000-year history, ancient architecture, and modern cultural attractions. While the decision to rent a car in Cologne depends on your specific needs and preferences, there are a few factors to consider. Public transportation within the city, including bus and train services, is generally efficient and convenient, so a car may not be necessary for getting around Cologne itself. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, such as the Rhine and Mosel valleys, Belgium, or Luxembourg, renting a car could offer more flexibility and convenience. Car rental services are readily available in Cologne, providing easy pickup and drop-off options. When driving in Cologne, it's important to note that the city has many ancient, narrow, one-way streets, and driving on the Autobahn requires adjusting your speed based on weather and road conditions.

Public transport in Cologne

Cologne has an excellent public transport system, so you won't need a car to get around the city and its immediate surroundings. The city has a comprehensive network of buses and trains, including high-speed rail, that will take you to all the major destinations in the region, including its airports. The public transport system is fast, frequent, safe, reliable, and affordable.

If you want to head further afield, you might consider hiring a car. This is especially true if you want to head south to the Rhine and Mosel valleys, Belgium, or Luxembourg. Car rental prices in Cologne are slightly cheaper than the global average, and you can expect some variation in price between the peak and off-peak seasons.

However, if you're just planning on staying in Cologne and its neighbouring areas, you won't need a car. The city is renowned for being cycle-friendly, with plenty of trails linking it to other big cities in the region, so you might consider renting a bicycle instead.

Car rental options

There are several car rental companies in Cologne, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, National, and Sixt. Many of these companies have locations at the Cologne Bonn Airport, making it convenient for travellers arriving by plane.

When renting a car in Cologne, it is important to keep a few things in mind. First, the city has a strong emphasis on green driving, so try to rent an eco-friendly vehicle with good fuel efficiency and a low carbon emissions rating. Additionally, certain areas of the city are part of the Cologne Low Emission Zone, and require a green environmental sticker on your windshield. Make sure your rental car has an Emission Group 4 rating and the required sticker to avoid facing fines.

Another thing to keep in mind is the applicable regulations regarding winter tires. From October to Easter, all vehicles, including rental cars, must be equipped with snow tires. Failure to comply with this regulation could result in penalties. It is also recommended to rent a GPS navigator if you are not familiar with the city, as this will make navigating much easier.

When it comes to pricing, car rental costs in Cologne can vary depending on the company and the type of vehicle. On average, a rental car in Cologne costs around $42 per day, but it is possible to find cheaper options starting at $18 per day.

Overall, renting a car in Cologne can provide a lot of flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace.

Driving tips for Cologne

Germany has a reputation for driving pleasure, but there are some local customs and rules you should be aware of before driving in Cologne. Here are some tips to help you navigate the roads safely and efficiently:

• Germans drive on the right side of the road. Make sure you are comfortable with this before renting a car.
• Familiarise yourself with European road sign symbols and their meanings. Knowing these will help you navigate and ensure you are driving safely and within the rules.
• If you are unfamiliar with driving a manual transmission car, be sure to reserve an automatic transmission vehicle ahead of your arrival. This can be done via the SIXT website.
• Central Cologne has many ancient, narrow, one-way streets. Utilise the Autobahn to get from one destination to another within the city more efficiently.
• While driving on the Autobahn, always pay attention to the weather and road conditions. Although there is no declared speed limit, drivers must adjust their speed based on driving conditions.
• If you become disoriented within Cologne, look for the Rhine. This river traverses the centre of Cologne from north to south and can help you reorient yourself. There are also many river crossings to go east and west.
• If you plan to drive south of Cologne, you may want to consider renting a car as there are several scenic destinations within driving distance. These include the Rhine and Mosel valleys, the Ardennes region in southern Belgium, and neighbouring Luxembourg.
• If you are visiting the Nurburgring Grand Prix circuit, be aware that rental car companies may not allow their cars to be driven on the track.

Places to visit in and around Cologne

Cologne is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of places to visit within the city and in its surroundings. Here are some of the top attractions:

In Cologne

• Cologne Cathedral – This Gothic cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. It boasts impressive architecture, with 157-metre-tall twin towers, and houses treasures such as the 12th-century Reliquary of the Three Kings.
• Cologne's City Hall – Built around 1407, this Gothic structure is the oldest public building in Germany. It incorporates about a hundred sculptures and has a rich history spanning over 900 years.
• Hohenzollern Bridge – This famous bridge over the river Rhine offers unparalleled views of the city and the river. It is adorned with half a million love locks and provides a romantic setting for a stroll.
• Cologne Chocolate Museum – This unique museum traces the history of chocolate, from its ancient origins to the modern-day confectionery. Visitors can design their own chocolate bars and enjoy free samples from the chocolate fountain.
• Flora and Botanical Garden – Covering 11.5 hectares, this botanical garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants. It features a historic building, The Flora, which hosts flower shows and concerts.
• The Roman-Germanic Museum – Located near the cathedral, this museum showcases Cologne's rich archaeological heritage. It displays Roman artefacts such as the Dionysus Mosaic and the funerary monument of Poblicius.
• Museum of Applied Art – This museum houses a fine collection of applied and decorative art, including jewellery, furniture, and armour, from the medieval period onwards.
• Wallraf-Richartz Museum – This museum houses an impressive collection of artwork spanning from the 13th to the 19th century, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.
• NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne – This memorial and museum provides an insightful look into life under the Nazi regime. It is located in the actual building where prisoners were held by the Gestapo, with chilling prison cells in the basement.
• Cologne Zoological Gardens – One of Germany's oldest zoos, it features a diverse range of animals, including exotic species, and combines modern facilities with historic buildings.

Around Cologne

Brühl – A picturesque town located 15 kilometres south of Cologne. It is home to the elegant Augustusburg Palace, famous as the residence of the Archbishop of Cologne, and the Falkenlust Palace, part of a World Heritage site. Brühl also boasts several museums and the Phantasialand, one of Europe's largest theme parks.

Requirements for renting a car in Cologne

Renting a car in Cologne is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. Here are the requirements you need to keep in mind:

Age and Driver's License

To rent a car in Cologne, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license. The minimum age requirement may vary depending on the car category, and some companies may also require you to have held your license for at least one year.

International Driving Permit

If you have a non-German driver's license, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). This is especially important if your license is not in the Latin alphabet. Check with the rental company if an IDP is necessary for your specific license.

Insurance and Protection Packages

While not mandatory, purchasing additional insurance or protection packages is highly recommended to reduce your liability in case of any accidents or damage to the rental car.

Additional Drivers

If multiple people will be driving the rental car, you can add additional drivers to your booking. This usually incurs an extra fee.

Transmission Preference

If you are unfamiliar with manual transmission, be sure to reserve a car with automatic transmission in advance. This option is available from most rental companies in Cologne.

Environmental Requirements

Cologne is a green city with a Low Emission Zone. Make sure your rental car has a green environmental sticker on its windshield to avoid fines. This sticker should be supplied with any car that has an Emission Group 4 rating.

Winter Tires

If you are renting during the winter months, ensure your rental car is equipped with snow tires. From October to Easter, local regulations require all vehicles, including rentals, to have winter tires.

GPS Navigation

Unless you are familiar with the city, consider renting a GPS navigator or choosing a rental car with an integrated GPS system. Some companies may offer this as a free extra, while others may charge a daily fee.

Rental Period and Costs

The cost of renting a car in Cologne varies depending on the company and car type. On average, you can expect to pay around $42 per day. Booking in advance, especially at least a day before your trip, can help you find lower rates.

Pick-up and Drop-off Locations

Cologne has several convenient pick-up and drop-off locations, including the Cologne Bonn Airport and Cologne Central Railway Station. Some companies may allow one-way rentals between these locations for an additional fee.

Frequently asked questions