Exploring Cologne: A Must-See Destination Guide

Cologne, or Köln, is a city in Germany with a rich history and culture. Here are some must-see attractions when visiting:

- The Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic-style cathedral and UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the second-tallest church in Germany and the third-tallest in the world.

- The Old Town, a historic neighbourhood with colourful buildings, cobbled lanes, and a preserved cathedral.

- The Chocolate Museum, located on the River Rhine, which offers insight into the history of chocolate and its production.

- The Hohenzollern Bridge, a historic bridge adorned with love locks, providing scenic views of the river and cityscape.

- The NS Documentation Centre, a museum that provides an insightful journey through Germany's past, focusing on the sobering realities of World War II.

- The Wallraf-Richartz Museum, which houses artwork from the 13th to the 19th century.

- The Botanical Gardens Flora, a tranquil botanical retreat with diverse flora, serene picnic spots, and a charming outdoor café.

Explore the historic Old Town

Cologne's Old Town (Altstadt) is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. With its cobblestone alleys, colourful buildings, and cobbled lanes, it exudes an old-world atmosphere that shines through even among the newer post-war constructions. Here's what you can see and do in this resilient post-war neighbourhood:

• Admire the architecture: As you stroll through the Old Town, you'll come across countless monuments and fountains, as well as Renaissance buildings such as the elegant City Hall Tower and the Jan von Werth Fountain.
• Visit the Old Marketplace: Grab a cup of coffee and admire the Renaissance buildings in the area, including the City Hall Tower and the Jan von Werth Fountain.
• Explore the Archaeological Zone: Discover the Old Town's Archaeological Zone, which features ancient ruins and artefacts such as the Roman-era Praetorium, or Governor's Palace, and a section of a 2,000-year-old Roman sewage system.
• Stroll along the Rhine River: Start your day with a walk along the scenic River Rhine, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Old Town and check out the Kölner Pegel, a water level meter installed in 1951 to warn of potential floods.
• Indulge in traditional cuisine: Be sure to stop by Früh am Dom for some traditional kölsche cuisine, including the famous Kolsh beer.
• Visit St. Martin's Church: There are several quaint churches in the Old Town, but St. Martin's is a must-see. Its architecture is truly beautiful.
• Shop in the Belgian Quarter: For a unique shopping experience, head to the Belgian Quarter, where you'll find trendy pubs, restaurants, and cafes, as well as one-of-a-kind pieces from young fashion designers and local jewellers.
• Take a boat trip on the Rhine: Board a boat at the Hohenzollern Bridge for a cruise along the Rhine River. You'll get to see the Old Town from a different perspective and glide under magnificent bridges.
• Enjoy the nightlife: The Old Town has plenty of options for evening entertainment, including cosy bars and restaurants.

Admire the Cologne Cathedral

Cologne is home to twelve Romanesque churches from the Middle Ages, but the magnificent Gothic Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom, is a sight not to be missed. It is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting an average of 6 million people a year. The cathedral is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996.

The construction of the cathedral began in 1248 but was halted around 1560 and left unfinished. Attempts to complete the construction began around 1814, but the project was not properly funded until the 1840s. The edifice was finally completed to its original medieval plan in 1880. The towers for its two huge spires give the cathedral the largest façade of any church in the world.

Cologne's medieval builders planned a grand structure to house the shrine of the Three Kings and fit for its role as a place of worship for the Holy Roman Emperor. The shrine of the Three Kings, commissioned by Philip von Heinsberg, is considered one of the most sophisticated goldsmith's works of the Middle Ages.

The interior of the cathedral is just as captivating as its exterior. You will be greeted by intricate stained glass windows, beautiful artwork, and ornate architectural details. The cathedral is also home to the high altar, which is constructed of black marble with a solid slab of white marble on top. Other highlights include the Gero Crucifix, a large oak crucifix from the 10th century, and the Mailänder Madonna, a High Gothic carving of the Virgin and infant Jesus.

To see panoramic views of the city, you can climb to the top of the tower. The tower is open year-round, and you can arrange a guided tour of the belfry with the cathedral staff. However, contact them well in advance if you want to hear the bells ringing.

Visit the Chocolate Museum

The Schokoladenmuseum Köln, or Cologne Chocolate Museum, is a must-see attraction in the city. Located on the River Rhine, it offers a fascinating insight into the history of chocolate and its production process. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including a walk-through palm house, information on the natural history of cocoa, pre-Columbian cultures of Central America, a collection of baroque porcelain and silver, and historical machines from the industrialisation period.

The History of the Museum

The museum was founded in 1972 when Hans Imhoff acquired the Stollwerck chocolate factory. Inspired by the remnants of chocolate-making machinery, packaging material, and other artefacts, he began preserving and restoring them as the basis for the museum. The Chocolate Museum in Cologne opened its doors on 31 October 1993.

Exhibits and Attractions

The museum offers a comprehensive exhibition of the history of cocoa and chocolate, covering 5,000 years of cultivation and cultural history. One of the highlights is the famous chocolate fountain, containing 200 kilograms of chocolate, flowing down from a height of three metres. Visitors can also watch chocolates being made in the glass-walled production facility and chocolate workshop, and even design their own chocolate bar to take home.

In addition, the museum features a greenhouse, exhibits from pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, and a collection of historic porcelain and silver. The Chocolate Grand Cafe is the perfect spot to end your visit with a delicious slice of chocolate cake and a hot drink.

Events and Activities

The Chocolate Museum also serves as an event venue, hosting weddings, gala dinners, corporate meetings, and guided tours for school classes. They offer chocolate courses for children and adults, providing a unique and indulgent experience for visitors of all ages.

Stroll across the Hohenzollern Bridge

Hohenzollern Bridge is a must-see attraction in Cologne, especially if you're looking for a romantic stroll. The bridge is adorned with half a million "love locks", providing scenic views of the river and a bustling railway. It is also a great spot for cityscape photography, especially at sunset or in the evening when the lighting creates perfect photo opportunities of the bridge and cathedral at night.

• Start your walk on the bridge by taking in the impressive collection of love locks. Couples attach padlocks to the grating and throw the key into the river as a symbol of their everlasting love.
• As you walk across the bridge, admire the views of one of Europe's great rivers, the Rhine, and the towering church of Groß St. Martin directly ahead.
• Take a moment to appreciate the sturdy construction of the bridge, which has withstood the weight of the love locks, which now amount to more than two tons.
• Look out for the railway on the bridge, which is still in use today. The bridge dates back to the early 20th century and was rebuilt after World War II, restricting it to rail and pedestrian traffic.
• If you're visiting at sunset, enjoy the golden hour light as it illuminates the old town, the cathedral towers, and the nearby Colonius telecom tower.
• For an even more dramatic view, time your stroll for the evening when the bridge and cathedral are lit up, creating a stunning night-time scene.
• After crossing the bridge, continue your stroll along the Rheinboulevard, where you can relax and enjoy the glorious sunsets that Cologne has to offer.
• Explore the banks of the river, where you'll find charming little bars and cafes that make this area of Cologne perfect for a leisurely walk.
• If you're visiting during winter, remember to wrap up warm! The banks of the Rhine can get quite chilly, but it's worth braving the cold to experience the beauty of the city during this season.

Discover the Belgian Quarter

The Belgian Quarter (or 'Belgisches Viertel' in German) is a trendy and popular inner-city district in the heart of Cologne, known for its creative, hip, and young vibe. The area boasts a variety of attractions, including great food, parks, beautiful architecture, street art, boutique shopping, cafes, and bars. Here's a guide to help you discover the best of the Belgian Quarter:

History and Location

The Belgian Quarter derives its name from the streets named after Belgian provinces and cities, such as Brussels, Limburg, Liège, and Brabant. The area also includes a few Dutch city names, such as Maastrichter Straße. The quarter is easily accessible by tram, with stops at Hans-Böckler-Platz, Rudolfplatz, or Friesenplatz.

Art Nouveau and Creative Scene

The Belgian Quarter is characterised by its ostentatious Art Nouveau houses, mainly built around Brüsseler Platz starting from the early 1900s. The area is known for its creative scene, with many young fashion designers, goldsmiths, and artists choosing to set up their shops, boutiques, ateliers, galleries, and workshops here. The interest group Chic Belgique was established to promote exclusive shopping tours in the area, showcasing the unique offerings of the local designers and craftspeople.

Dining and Nightlife

The Belgian Quarter offers a diverse range of dining options, from currywurst stands to gourmet restaurants. For a pleasant outdoor dining experience, visit the Stadtgarten, a green space that features a beer garden, a restaurant, and a venue for concerts and parties. The quarter also has a vibrant nightlife, with bars, pubs, and late-night shopping options. A popular spot for drinks is 'Le Kiosk', where you can enjoy a beverage while exploring the neighbourhood.

Parks and Relaxation

The Belgian Quarter offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city centre. Head to the Stadtgarten for a leisurely morning jog or a lazy afternoon in the sun. During winter, the park transforms into a magical Christmas market. Alternatively, walk west from the Belgian Quarter to Hiroshima-Nagasaki Park, where you can unwind by the serene Aachener Weiher Lake and admire the East-Asian art at the Museum für Ostasiatische Kunst.

Accommodation

If you're looking for unique and friendly places to stay in the Belgian Quarter, consider the Die Wohngemeinschaft hostel. This themed hostel, located in the heart of the Belgian Quarter, offers a cosy bar and a delicious breakfast.

Frequently asked questions