Katrina Rosales
Cologne, or Köln, is a city steeped in history, with remnants from the Roman period, medieval churches, Baroque palaces, and museums. It is famous for its twelve Romanesque churches, particularly the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. Here are some must-see attractions in Cologne:
- The Cologne Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the single most visited landmark in Germany. It houses invaluable art, intricate stained glass windows, and a gilded shrine of the Three Kings.
- The Romano-Germanic Museum showcases the city's rich archaeological heritage, featuring Roman glass, jewellery, and a 15-metre-high funerary monument.
- The Wallraf-Richartz Museum boasts an extensive collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Renoir.
- Cologne's Old Town, or Altstadt, is a charming historic centre with cobblestone alleyways, colourful buildings, and quaint shops.
- The Belgian Quarter is a trendy neighbourhood known for its galleries, boutiques, and vibrant café culture.
- The Cologne Chocolate Museum offers a fascinating journey into the world of chocolate, with interactive displays, live demonstrations, and a massive chocolate fountain.
- The Cologne Zoo is one of Germany's oldest zoological gardens, featuring an impressive array of animals and historic menagerie buildings.
- The Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with love locks, provides scenic views of the river and the cityscape.
- The KölnTriangle skyscraper offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
- The Rheinauhafen District is a creative hub with ambitious architectural landmarks, such as the award-winning Kranhaus buildings.
What You'll Learn
Explore the Old Town
Cologne's Old Town (Altstadt) is a must-see, with its colourful houses, quaint shops, and cobbled streets that take you back in time. It's a great place to spend an early evening, with plenty of cool bars and delicious restaurants to choose from. Be sure to book in advance, especially for weekend dinners.
As you wander through the Old Town, you'll come across the Kölner Rathaus, or Stadt Köln, the city's historic City Hall. Built in 1573, it's the oldest public building in Germany, boasting a rich history that dates back over 900 years. The building showcases various architectural styles, including a 14th-century main building, a 15th-century tower, and a Renaissance-style loggia and cloister.
Near the City Hall, you'll find the Old Marketplace, where you can admire the Renaissance buildings, including the elegant City Hall Tower and the Jan von Werth Fountain.
The Old Town is also home to some of Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches, including Gross St. Martin, with its distinctive crossing tower. This Romanesque church dates back to the 11th century and offers beautiful views of the River Rhine.
As you stroll through the Old Town, you'll also come across charming squares at the end of narrow cobblestone alleyways, such as Heumarkt and Altermarkt. Don't miss the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, a fountain from 1899 on Am Hof, which depicts Cologne's beloved gnomes, the Heinzelmännchen.
The Old Town's Archaeological Zone is another highlight, where you can explore ancient ruins and artefacts, including the Roman-era Praetorium (Governor's Palace) and a 2,000-year-old Roman sewage system.
Cologne's Old Town truly comes alive at night, with illuminated architecture and bustling pubs serving the famous Kölsch beer. So, whether you're wandering the cobblestone streets during the day or enjoying a drink in the evening, the Old Town is a must-visit destination in Cologne.
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Visit the Chocolate Museum
The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a paradise for chocolate lovers and the city's most popular cultural attraction, attracting around 600,000 visitors annually. The museum was established in 1972 by chocolatier Hans Imhoff and explores the history of chocolate through interactive displays and live demonstrations. The museum guides you through a journey from the bitter drink enjoyed by the Maya, Aztecs and Olmecs to modern-day chocolate.
The museum is located on the River Rhine and offers fascinating insights into the history of chocolate and its production. You can watch the process of chocolate-making in the Production Room and even customise your own chocolate bar with desired ingredients at the Chocolate Studio.
A beautiful golden replica of a cacao bean plant is the centrepiece of the museum. As you approach, you will witness a mesmerising flow of silky milk chocolate cascading into a pool. You may even get the chance to savour a delicious chocolate-coated waffle for free.
The museum also has a Chocolate Grand Cafe, where you can indulge in a slice of freshly baked chocolate cake and a hot drink. Before leaving, don't forget to stop by the gift shop to purchase some chocolate treats to take home.
The Chocolate Museum is a must-visit attraction in Cologne, offering a delightful experience for chocolate lovers of all ages. With its interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and tasty treats, it's the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth and learn about the history and culture of chocolate.
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Admire the Cologne Cathedral
Admiring the Cologne Cathedral is a must when visiting the city. This Gothic cathedral is not only a magnificent sight to behold, but it also holds a wealth of history and religious significance. Here are four to six paragraphs detailing the wonders of the Cologne Cathedral:
The Cologne Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Mary, is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Located on the left bank of the Rhine River, it serves as Cologne's most visible landmark and attracts more than six million visitors annually, making it the most popular tourist destination in Germany. The foundations of the cathedral were first laid in the Middle Ages, in 1248, and it was finally completed in 1880 after a long period of construction abandonment. Despite suffering severe damage during the world wars, many valuable works of art and relics survived within its walls.
The cathedral is an important pilgrimage site, housing the Shrine of the Magi, which contains the remains of the biblical Three Wise Men. This shrine is a richly bejewelled and gilded sarcophagus, drawing pilgrims and visitors from around the world. The interior of the cathedral is just as breathtaking as its exterior, with intricate stained glass windows, beautiful artwork, and ornate architectural details. Climbing the south tower's 533 steps rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city.
The Cologne Cathedral is also renowned for its impressive collection of treasures, including the 12th-century Reliquary of the Three Kings, created by local goldsmiths. Other notable treasures include the famous relief of the Adoration of the Kings from 1440 and the impressive Treasure Chamber, housing ancient reliquaries and manuscripts. The cathedral's treasury is open to the public, providing a glimpse into its rich history.
A special experience for those who enjoy heights is a tour of the cathedral's roofs, offering a unique perspective of the city. The cathedral has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, solidifying its importance and impact on culture and religion. The cathedral's website provides information on events, concerts, and services, as well as any closures, to help visitors plan their trip effectively.
The Cologne Cathedral is an iconic symbol of the city, and its construction was inspired by the ethereal cathedrals of Northern France. Its 19th-century towers stand tall, second only to the Colonius telecom tower in the city. The interior boasts a dizzying array of invaluable art, such as stained glass windows from the 1500s and a black marble high altar from the 1300s.
The Cologne Cathedral is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural significance. Its intricate architecture, valuable relics, and artistic treasures make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cologne. Whether you're admiring its exterior grandeur or exploring its interior wonders, the Cologne Cathedral is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Take a boat trip on the Rhine
Cologne, Germany, is a charming city with plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a boat trip on the Rhine River. Here are four to six paragraphs with a detailed and direct guide on taking a boat trip on the Rhine in Cologne.
Boat Trips on the Rhine
The Rhine River offers a unique perspective of Cologne, allowing visitors to admire the city's landmarks and attractions from the water. The river flows through the heart of the city and is a popular destination for boat trips and cruises. One of the most popular options is the Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) boat trip, which offers panoramic cruises and day trips along the Rhine. These trips provide a great opportunity to relax and take in the sights while gliding under magnificent bridges and past exciting waterfront areas.
Cologne's Waterfront Attractions
Cologne's waterfront is lined with impressive structures and scenic areas. As your boat navigates the Rhine, you'll be treated to stunning views of the city's top attractions. The twin-spired Cologne Cathedral, or Kölner Dom, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited landmarks in Germany. Its Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass will leave you captivated. Another must-see is the Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with tens of thousands of love locks. This romantic spot offers scenic views of the river and provides a unique perspective of the cityscape.
Boat Trip Options
There are various boat trip options available on the Rhine, ranging from short panoramic cruises to longer day trips. The most common boat trip duration is around one hour, providing a comfortable and informative experience. These trips typically include informative audio commentary, available in multiple languages, that sheds light on Cologne's rich history. If you're looking for a more extended experience, you can opt for a two-hour evening cruise, where you can enjoy the city's sights illuminated against the night sky.
What to Expect on a Boat Trip
During your boat trip on the Rhine, you'll glide past medieval architecture, modern landmarks, and vibrant parks. The route usually covers the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, the Old Town, the Hohenzollern Bridge, and the Chocolate Museum. You'll also get a glimpse of the newly renovated Rheinauhafen harbour area, which showcases contemporary design. As you sail along, you can purchase drinks, including the local Koelsch beer, and learn about Cologne's 2,000-year-old history.
Practical Information
Boat trips on the Rhine are easily accessible and suitable for most travellers. Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the departure point. The boats typically offer both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the views from different perspectives. The informative audio commentary is available in multiple languages, making it a great option for international visitors. The boats also have onboard bars where you can purchase refreshments. The boat trips are typically wheelchair accessible, and most operators provide excellent customer service.
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Discover the Belgian Quarter
The Belgian Quarter (or 'Belgisches Viertel' in German) is an inner-city district of Cologne, Germany, known for its laid-back vibe, trendy pubs, cafes, bars, and restaurants. The area is considered fashionable and was named the city's most desirable place to live by a lifestyle magazine in 2010.
The neighbourhood gets its name from the surrounding street names, which refer to Belgian provinces and cities, such as Ghent, Brussels, and Antwerp. You'll also find a few Dutch cities hidden among the street names, like Maastricht Street and Utrecht Street.
At the heart of the Belgian Quarter is Brussels Square (Brüsseler Platz), dominated by the neo-Romanesque St Michael's Church, the third-largest church in Cologne. The square is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, especially on warm summer nights, when it fills with young people socialising.
Maastricht Street is a great place to start exploring the Belgian Quarter. Here, you'll find hidden restaurants and cute boutiques, as well as a mix of old and new buildings. As you wander, keep an eye out for the balcony sculpture on Brussels Street—a lifelike sculpture of a person sitting calmly on the edge of their balcony. It's sure to give you a fright if you're not expecting it!
The Belgian Quarter is also known for its street art. One spot not to miss is just a little further down Brussels Street, where you'll find a unique building covered in stickers, stencils, and other works of art. The look of this hotspot changes almost weekly as new artists add their creations.
When it comes to food and drink, you'll be spoilt for choice in the Belgian Quarter. Brussels Square offers plenty of options, from cold beers to tasty meals in the surrounding restaurants and sweet treats in the nearby cafes.
For a cosy lunch, check out Herr Pimock bar, or head to Salon Schmitz for delicious homemade quiches. Be sure to get there early, as this spot is popular with locals.
The Belgian Quarter is easily accessible by foot or via the efficient tram system.
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Frequently asked questions
Some famous landmarks in Cologne include the Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge, the Old Town, and the City Hall Tower.
There are many museums in Cologne, including the Chocolate Museum, the Museum Ludwig, the Romano-Germanic Museum, the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, and the Museum of Applied Art.
Cologne has a long history that dates back to the Roman period. The city has retained elements from various periods, including Roman remains, medieval churches, Baroque palaces, and World War II memorials.
There are plenty of fun activities to do in Cologne, such as taking a boat trip on the Rhine River, visiting the Cologne Zoo, exploring the Belgian Quarter, and enjoying the city's café culture.
In addition to the Cologne Cathedral, there are twelve Romanesque churches in the city, including St. Gereon's Basilica, Gross St. Martin, and St. Maria im Kapitol.
