Cologne's Unsafe Areas: A Guide To Staying Safe

Cologne, Germany, is considered a relatively safe place to visit, with violent crime being rare. However, as with any large city, tourists are advised to be cautious and aware of potential dangers such as theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the historic centre and the Cathedral of Cologne. While some locals attribute the rise in violent crime to immigrants, others argue that these concerns are exaggerated and that the issues are more complex and rooted in marginalization and lack of opportunities for certain groups. The eastern Kalk district and the Ebertplatz square have been mentioned as areas with a higher concentration of drug-related activities and violence, but opinions vary among residents, with some feeling safe and others expressing concerns about their safety. Overall, by exercising common sense and taking standard safety precautions, visitors to Cologne can enjoy its gothic architecture, history, and vibrant culture without encountering significant safety issues.

Avoid the metro tunnel at Appellhofplatz and the Neumarkt bus station stairs at night

Cologne is a relatively safe city, but there are a few areas that are best avoided at night, including the metro tunnel at Appellhofplatz and the Neumarkt bus station stairs.

The Appellhofplatz station is an underground hub for the Cologne Stadtbahn, with two stations about 100 metres apart. The station is located in the Innenstadt district of Cologne and serves as a junction between several lines. The station consists of a mezzanine and two platform levels with four side platforms and four rail tracks. While the Appellhofplatz station is generally safe during the day, it is best avoided at night, as it can be a hotspot for crime and anti-social behaviour.

Similarly, the Neumarkt station is a busy Stadtbahn station in Innenstadt, Cologne, serving as a junction between the low-floor and high-floor lines. The station has both overground and underground parts, with platforms for each set of lines. The overground part consists of two low-floor platforms on the Neumarkt square, while the underground part has two side platforms for the high-floor lines. The Neumarkt station is usually safe, but the stairs leading to the underground part can be a bit sketchy at night, with reports of pickpocketing and harassment.

To stay safe while using the Cologne public transport system, especially at night, it is recommended to be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas. It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the layout of the stations you will be using, so you know where to go and can avoid looking like a tourist or an easy target. If you do find yourself in an uncomfortable or dangerous situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation as quickly and safely as possible.

Avoid Ebertplatz and Wiener Platz at night

Cologne is generally considered a safe city for everyone, including solo female travellers. However, as with any big city, there are certain areas that are best avoided at night. Ebertplatz and Wiener Platz are two such places.

Ebertplatz and Wiener Platz are known for being hotspots for drug dealing and other criminal activities. It is advised to stay away from these areas, especially after dark, as they can be dangerous. In addition to these two locations, there are a few other places in Cologne that are best avoided at night, such as the metro tunnel at Appellhofplatz and the stairs to the bus station at Neumarkt.

Cologne has a relatively low crime rate, and residents are friendly and open-minded. The city is also known for its diverse mix of people, including many international students and tourists. Street harassment is not a widespread issue, and instances of it are relatively low. However, it is always important to stay cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and during famous events like the Carnaval.

Public transportation in Cologne is generally safe and reliable, with security personnel often visible and robust emergency protocols in place. Still, it is important to remain vigilant when using public transport, especially late in the evening. Avoid empty compartments and always keep your belongings close.

Overall, Cologne is a safe city, but it is always important to be mindful of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety.

Be cautious of pickpockets in tourist areas

Cologne is a safe city for tourists and solo female travellers. However, as with any big city, there is a risk of pickpocketing.

Pickpockets often work in groups and use distraction techniques to steal from unsuspecting tourists. For example, one person may bump into you, while another takes the opportunity to lift your valuables. In other cases, a child might distract you with brochures or questions, while their accomplice steals from your bag.

To avoid falling victim to pickpockets, be vigilant and stay alert in crowded places, tourist hotspots, and during famous events like the Carnaval. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving bags unattended. Keep the bulk of your cash and cards in a secure location, such as a money belt or pouch worn under your clothing.

Some travellers have reported issues with pickpockets at the Köln Messe Koelnmesse Train Station, so be extra cautious when travelling through this station.

Avoid empty compartments on public transport

Cologne is generally considered a safe city for travellers of all genders, with a low crime rate and friendly, open-minded residents. However, as with any big city, it is always good to stay vigilant and cautious, especially in crowded areas, during famous events like the Carnaval, and at night.

Public transportation in Cologne is considered safe and efficient, even during the evenings. The city has an efficient network of trams, buses, and trains operated by KVB (Kölner Verkehrsbetriebe) that run regularly, even during the night. Security personnel are often visible, and emergency protocols are robust. However, it is still important to remain vigilant, especially late at night, and avoid empty compartments whenever possible. Always keep your belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings to ensure your safety.

• Keep your belongings secure: Pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur on public transportation, so it is important to keep your belongings secure at all times. Keep your bags close to your body, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Be vigilant during late-night travel: While Cologne's public transportation is generally safe, it is always better to be cautious during late-night travel. Try to stay in well-lit and populated areas, and avoid empty compartments.
• Use trusted transportation options: Opt for well-known transportation options like the KVB network, which has a strong security presence and reliable emergency protocols.
• Stay informed: Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system, including the different lines and stops. Knowing where you are going and which stations to use can help you avoid getting lost or ending up in less safe areas.
• Consider alternative transportation methods: If you prefer not to use public transportation at night, consider using a bicycle or a car-sharing service to get around. Cologne has good bicycle lanes, and car-sharing services like "Share Now" offer electric cars for a more sustainable option.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can help ensure your safety while using public transportation in Cologne, Germany. Remember to always trust your instincts and avoid situations that make you feel uncomfortable.

Keep your belongings close and be vigilant

Cologne is generally considered a safe city for travellers of all genders, with a low crime rate, friendly residents, efficient public transportation, and plenty of open areas and popular sites to visit. However, as with any big city, it's important to stay vigilant and keep your belongings close, especially in crowded places and during famous events like the Carnaval.

• Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, tourist spots, and public transportation.
• Avoid empty compartments in trains and buses, and try to stay in well-lit and populated areas at night.
• Be cautious around train stations at night, and consider taking a bike instead of walking if you're travelling alone.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Consider using a money belt or a hidden pouch to carry your passport, cash, and other important items.
• If you're going out for the evening, leave any valuables you don't need at your accommodation, and only carry the cash you'll require for the night.
• Consider investing in a small, lightweight bag that can be worn across your body and kept in front of you at all times.
• Be extra vigilant during the Carnaval or other large events, as pickpocketing may be more prevalent due to the large crowds.
• If you're concerned about a particular area, trust your instincts and avoid it. Take a different route or opt for a bus or train instead of walking.
• Keep a close eye on your drink at all times, and never accept a drink from someone you don't know.
• Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs to avoid any misunderstandings or accidental infractions.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can help ensure that your belongings are secure and reduce the risk of theft or loss. Enjoy your time in Cologne!

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