Exploring Cologne, Germany: A Perfect One-Day Itinerary

Cologne, Germany, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. In one day, you can explore many of the city's top attractions, including its famous Cologne Cathedral, the Historic Old Town, and the 12 Romanesque churches. Here is a suggested itinerary for a day in Cologne:

9:00 AM: Start your day by visiting the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom). This Gothic architectural marvel is one of the city's most famous attractions and is well worth exploring, both inside and out.

10:00 AM: Head to the Museum Ludwig, adjacent to the cathedral. This modern art museum houses works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dali.

11:30 AM: Take a short walk to the Great St. Martin Church, one of the 12 Historic Romanesque Churches in Cologne. This church, with its central tall spire and smaller corner spires, offers a simple yet moving interior.

1:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional German lunch at Peter's Brauhaus. Sample local dishes such as Himmel un Äd (Sky and Earth) and wash it down with a crisp Kölsch beer, a Cologne speciality.

2:30 PM: Stroll through the Historic Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quaint cafes. Don't miss the town hall with its tall clock tower.

4:00 PM: Cross the Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with half a million love locks, and take in scenic views of the river and the city skyline, including the Cathedral.

5:30 PM: Visit the Cologne Triangle, an iconic skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

7:00 PM: As the sun sets, walk along the Rhine River and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Look out for the famous cable car and boat cruises along the river.

Visit the Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral (German: Kölner Dom) is a must-see when in Cologne. It is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting an average of 6 million people annually. It is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996.

History

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 adequately funded until the 1840s. The edifice was finally completed according to its original medieval plan in 1880.

Architecture

The cathedral boasts the tallest twin spires in the world, reaching a height of 157 metres (515 feet). It is the second tallest church in Europe and the third tallest church globally. The towers give the cathedral the largest façade of any church in the world.

The Cologne Cathedral is built from different types of rock, including trachyte and sandstone. Many sculptures and canopies are crafted from limestone. The black patina, resulting from weathering, soot, and biofouling, has been a characteristic feature of the cathedral for centuries.

Art and Artifacts

The cathedral is known for housing several important works of art and artifacts. The Shrine of the Three Kings, located behind the main altar, is particularly noteworthy. It is a large gold-covered sarcophagus believed to hold the relics of the Three Wise Men.

The cathedral also features beautiful stained glass windows, including the famous Bible Window, located in the central chapel of the ambulatory. Another notable window is the modern 'Richter-Fenster' in the southern transept, designed by German artist Gerhard Richter. It is composed of 11,5000 identically-sized pieces of coloured glass in 72 different colours, creating an abstract tapestry of hues that changes with the light.

Visiting the Cathedral

The cathedral is open daily from 6 am to 8 pm, and tourists can generally visit between 10 am and 5 pm on weekdays and 1 pm to 4 pm on Sundays. There is no entry fee, but climbing the 533 steps to the viewing platform costs €6 per adult. This climb offers a panoramic view of the city and the River Rhine.

Please note that only small bags (up to a size of 40x35x15cm) are allowed inside the cathedral, and identity checks are performed by staff upon entry.

Explore the Historic Old Town

Cologne's Historic Old Town, or 'Altstadt', is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The area boasts colourful buildings, quaint cobbled streets, and classic architecture. It's a great place to get lost in, with its winding alleyways and small squares.

One of the highlights of the Old Town is the Romanesque Great St. Martin Church. This beautiful church, with its striking spires, was nearly destroyed during World War II and only reopened in the 1980s. Inside, you'll find a simple yet moving interior with remnants of paintings on the columns and some mosaic floor tiles.

Another must-see in the Old Town is the town hall, or 'Rathaus', with its tall clock tower. This impressive building is surrounded by fantastic architecture and is definitely worth a photo or two.

The Old Town is also a great place to indulge in some local cuisine. Be sure to try 'Himmel un Äd' (a delicious combination of mashed potatoes, stewed apples, and sausages) and wash it down with a glass of Kölsch, Cologne's famous beer.

If you're looking for a more comprehensive exploration of the Old Town, there are private walking tours available that will take you to all the best spots.

Take a walk along the Rhine

Cologne is a city with a rich history and vibrant culture. With its location on the banks of the Rhine River, the city offers stunning views and a unique blend of old and new. If you're spending a day in Cologne, a walk along the Rhine is a must. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your stroll:

The Rhine Promenade

Start your walk along the peaceful promenade that runs alongside the Rhine River. Take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy a moment of tranquility away from the bustling city centre. The promenade offers a wonderful opportunity to admire the city from a different perspective, with breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding architecture.

The Old Town

As you walk along the Rhine, you'll find yourself in the heart of Cologne's historic Old Town, or "Altstadt". This charming neighbourhood is characterised by its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quaint cafes. Wander through the narrow lanes and explore the romantic squares, such as the Old Market Square. Don't miss the chance to visit some of the historic churches in the area, including the Great St. Martin Church, with its striking spire and smaller corner spires.

Hohenzollern Bridge

Continue your walk towards the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, one of the most famous landmarks in Cologne. This long bridge serves as both a pedestrian walkway and a railway bridge, connecting the two banks of the Rhine. Admire the hundreds of love locks placed on the bridge by hopeful couples, adding a touch of romance to your stroll. From the bridge, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city skyline, including the majestic Cologne Cathedral in the background.

Cologne Cathedral

Speaking of the Cologne Cathedral, why not end your walk by visiting this magnificent structure? The cathedral is Germany's most visited tourist attraction and for a good reason. This towering Gothic masterpiece, officially known as the Cathedral of St. Peter, dominates the city's skyline with its twin spires. Step inside to admire the towering columns, intricate stained glass windows, paintings, statues, and detailed mosaic floors. If you're feeling adventurous, climb the 500+ steps to the viewing platform for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Rhine River.

Local Tipples

After your walk, you might want to relax and unwind with a refreshing drink. Cologne has a vibrant beer culture, and the local brew, Kölsch, is a must-try. Visit one of the many traditional brewpubs in the city, such as Peters Brauhaus, and indulge in the unique atmosphere. If beer isn't your style, don't worry! Cologne is also known for its Eau de Cologne, a signature fragrance with a rich history. You can visit the Farina Fragrance Museum to learn more about the complex process behind creating these fine perfumes.

Try the local beer and food

Trying the local beer and food is a must when visiting Cologne. The city is known for its unique beer culture and hearty cuisine.

The Beer

Cologne is home to one of the most refreshing beer styles in the world: Kölsch. It is a clear, light, and crisp lager with a subtle, pleasurable hoppiness. As per the Kölsch convention, it has been illegal to brew Kölsch outside the city since 1986. The beer is served at about 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit, in a tall, thin, 0.2-litre glass known as a "Stange" or "pole".

You can find Kölsch in any bar or "brauhaus" in the city. Some popular breweries include Früh, Reissdorf, Gaffel, and Peter's Brauhaus. Früh, in particular, is a great choice for a well-rounded Kölsch experience, with its main brauhaus by the Dom offering a classic atmosphere. If you're looking for a modern feel, Gaffel's brauhaus near the main train station is a good option, with excellent food to go along with your beer.

The Food

To accompany your Kölsch, there are several traditional dishes to try. "Himmel un Äd" or "Sky and Earth" is a delicious blend of mashed potatoes, stewed apples, and sausages. "Halver Hahn" is a local snack, a sandwich made with rye bread, gouda cheese, pickles, and onions. "Reibekuchen" are crispy potato pancakes often served with apple sauce. If you're looking for a heartier meal, try "Kassler", smoked and boiled pork, or indulge in some bratwurst and pork knuckle.

Cologne's Old Town, or "Altstadt", is a great place to explore quaint alleyways, cobblestone streets, and colourful buildings while discovering local eateries. The city's main Christmas markets, held during the festive season, are also a wonderful way to sample local delicacies and indulge in the festive cheer.

Visit the Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a must-see for any chocolate lover. The museum offers a comprehensive and entertaining look at the history and production of chocolate, and is the perfect way to end your day in the city.

The museum is located on a small island in the River Rhine and is partnered with the famous Swiss chocolatier, Lindt. It was opened in 1993 by German chocolatier, Hand Imhoff, and offers a wealth of information and exhibits on the history and evolution of chocolate making.

Your visit will begin with a large cocoa tree model, followed by a 10-metre-high tropical house, where you will learn about the path of cocoa from harvest to the major stock exchanges of world trade. The museum provides insights into the cultural history of chocolate, with exhibits covering 5,000 years of its production and impact. You will also have the opportunity to see a glass-walled production facility and chocolate workshop, where you can watch chocolate products being crafted through both mechanised and manual processes.

One of the most famous attractions at the museum is the chocolate fountain, which contains 200 kilograms of chocolate flowing down from a height of three metres. You will also find a collection of 18th and 19th-century porcelain and silver, exhibits from pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, and various historical industrial machinery.

If you're visiting with children, there are interactive and informative exhibits, games, and screens to keep them entertained. You can also create your own chocolate bar with a choice of up to four ingredients, from smarties to gummy bears. This takes around 45 minutes and costs less than €5.

The museum also has a café with waterfront seating, offering beautiful views of the Dom. Here, you can indulge in chocolate fondue, drinking chocolates, chocolate cakes, fresh waffles, and more.

Tickets for the museum can be purchased online, and there are various special tickets available, such as combo tickets (including the nearby Ferris wheel) and family tickets. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with changed opening hours during Carnival. Please note that the museum is closed on Mondays from January to March and in November.

Frequently asked questions