Explore Cologne, Germany In January: A Winter Adventure

Cologne, Germany, is a cultural hub with a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere. While the city offers a multitude of attractions year-round, here is a list of some unique experiences to enjoy during the month of January:

- Explore the enchanting Christmas Markets: Even though Christmas is technically over, some markets continue into the first week of January. These markets are a beloved tradition, offering festive cheer, delicious food and drinks, and a wide variety of handicrafts and souvenirs.

- Stroll along the Rhine River: Bundle up and take a leisurely walk along the riverbanks to admire the stunning winter landscape. The frozen Rhine River creates a magical backdrop for capturing memorable photos.

- Go ice skating at Lentpark: Get your skates on and glide across the ice at Lentpark, which offers a fun and festive activity for all ages. Cozy cafes nearby provide a perfect spot to warm up with a hot drink after your skating session.

- Visit the Cologne Chocolate Museum: Indulge your sweet tooth at the Cologne Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the history of chocolate and enjoy interactive exhibits and tasty samples.

- Take a guided tour of Cologne Cathedral: January is an excellent time to visit this iconic Gothic masterpiece as the crowds are usually smaller. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city and don't miss the famous Shrine of the Three Kings.

- Sample traditional German winter dishes: Warm up with hearty German cuisine, including stews, sausages, and potato dishes, at local restaurants. It's a great way to experience the local culinary traditions and flavors of the season.

- Day trip to Eifel National Park: Escape the city and embark on a day trip to Eifel National Park, where you'll find a winter wonderland of snow-covered landscapes and peaceful forests. Explore the park on foot or by bike and immerse yourself in nature's serenity.

Cologne Cathedral

The cathedral's construction began in 1248, but it wasn't completed until 1880, taking almost six centuries to finish. The result is a stunning example of High Gothic architecture, featuring intricate vaulted ceilings, exquisite stained-glass windows, and intricate sculptures. The Shrine of the Three Kings is a particular highlight, housing the remains of the Wise Men. The cathedral also boasts the tallest façade of any church globally, thanks to its two huge spires.

The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as its exterior. Step inside to admire the stunning vaulted ceilings, intricate sculptures, and stunning stained-glass windows. Don't miss the famous Shrine of the Three Kings, which holds the relics of the Wise Men. For a small fee, you can climb the 533 steps to the top of the South Tower, where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Cologne and the Rhine River.

The cathedral is generally open daily from 6 am to 8 pm, with specific hours for tourists and guided tours. Mass is held several times a day, and individual visitors can explore the cathedral outside of Mass times. The tower is open from 9 am to 6 pm during the warmer months and from 9 am to 4 pm in the winter. Be sure to check the latest information on opening hours and any restrictions before your visit.

Museum Ludwig

The museum's origins can be traced back to 1976 when it emerged as an independent institution from the Wallraf-Richartz Museum. This transformation was made possible by a generous donation of 350 modern artworks by the chocolate magnate Peter Ludwig. In exchange, the City of Cologne committed to constructing a dedicated space for artworks created after 1900. The current building, designed by architects Peter Busmann and Godfrid Haberer, opened its doors in 1986, initially housing both the Wallraf Richartz Museum and Museum Ludwig. It wasn't until 1994 that the two institutions were separated, and the Bischofsgartenstrasse building became the sole domain of Museum Ludwig.

The museum also boasts an impressive photography section, established in 1977, making it one of the first museums of modern art to permanently include photography as an art form. Today, the Ludwig collection encompasses 70,000 photographic works, spanning from the earliest days of photography to contemporary pieces. To preserve the photosensitive nature of these exhibits, the museum rotates its selection, ensuring a fresh and dynamic display of photographic art.

Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a cultural experience, Museum Ludwig is a must-visit destination in Cologne. With its diverse collection, impressive architecture, and convenient location, it's no surprise that the museum is ranked among the top things to do in the city.

Romano-Germanic Museum

While Cologne is a year-round destination, the city has a unique charm in January, with plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions to explore. One such attraction is the Romano-Germanic Museum, located near the iconic Cologne Cathedral. This museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in delving into Cologne's ancient roots.

The Romano-Germanic Museum, or Römisch-Germanisches Museum in German, is an archaeological museum that showcases the Roman cultural heritage of Cologne. The museum is built on the original site of a Roman town villa, with a stunningly preserved third-century mosaic floor, known as the Dionysus mosaic, as its centerpiece. The Dionysus mosaic dates back to around AD 220/230 and was discovered in 1941 during the construction of an air-raid shelter. As the mosaic could not be easily moved, the museum was cleverly designed around it, with the inner courtyards mimicking the layout of the ancient villa.

The museum's extensive collection includes an array of Roman artifacts, such as glassware, jewellery, portraits, coins, toys, and everyday objects. One of the highlights is the world's largest collection of locally produced Roman glass, with pieces from funerals and burials. The museum also houses the reconstructed sepulchre of the legionary Poblicius, dating back to around AD 40.

In addition to the archaeological exhibits, the Romano-Germanic Museum also serves as a research centre. It has archives relating to the archaeology of the city, documentation on historical monuments, and a specialist library with 30,000 volumes. The museum is committed to preserving the Roman cultural heritage of Cologne and exercises archaeological supervision over the construction of the Cologne underground.

The Romano-Germanic Museum is typically open daily, and the exhibition is currently housed in the Belgian House due to renovation work. A visit to this museum will undoubtedly enhance your understanding of Cologne's rich historical and cultural heritage, especially its Roman past.

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

While Cologne is a year-round destination, January is a great time to visit as you can experience its winter wonderland without the Christmas crowds. The city is rich in history and culture, with plenty of attractions to explore.

One such attraction is the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, an art museum with a comprehensive collection of fine art from the medieval period to the early 20th century. Here's what you need to know about the Wallraf-Richartz Museum:

History

The museum was established in 1824 when the collection of medieval art from Ferdinand Franz Wallraf was inherited by the city of Cologne. The first building was donated by Johann Heinrich Richartz, and the museum opened its doors in 1861, shortly after his death. The current building, designed by Oswald Mathias Ungers, is located near the Cologne City Hall and has been open since 2001.

Collections

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum houses a vast collection of artworks spanning different periods and styles. Here's an overview:

Medieval and Gothic Art

The museum boasts an impressive collection of medieval and Gothic art, including the renowned "Madonna of the Rose Bower" by Stefan Lochner. This painting, executed around 1450, depicts the Virgin and Child reclining in a blooming rose arbor surrounded by Lochner's characteristic child angels. Another highlight is "The Arrest of Jesus" by the "Master of the Karlsruhe Passion", the only surviving panel from that painter's influential Passion cycle not housed in the Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe.

Renaissance Art

The museum's Renaissance collection includes an altarpiece (1515) from the Great Saint Martin Church in Cologne, one of the few known works by Jacob van Utrecht. Other notable early Renaissance pieces are the "Adoration of the Child", previously attributed to Hieronymus Bosch, and a panel from the Jabach Altarpiece by Albrecht Dürer.

Baroque, Rococo, and Impressionist Art

The Wallraf-Richartz-Museum features works by some of the most renowned artists from the Baroque and Rococo periods, including Rubens, Rembrandt, Jordaens, van Dyck, Frans Hals, and many others. The museum also has an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artworks, with pieces by Monet, Pissarro, Sisley, Gustave Caillebotte, and Berthe Morisot.

Visitor Information

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is closed on Mondays, and tickets are valid for the entire day. Standard admission is €11 for adults and €8 for reduced-price tickets. Various discounts are available for trainees, students, and others. The museum is easily accessible by public transport, with train, underground, tram, and bus options available.

Cologne's Old Town

Great St. Martin Church

The Great St. Martin Church is a Romanesque gem in the heart of Cologne's Old Town. With its four distinctive towers gracing the skyline, it's a sight to behold. Stroll along the Rhine River or explore the nearby streets to catch glimpses of this architectural masterpiece. From the Fish Market (Fischmarkt) to Am Leystapel, a tranquil riverside park, you'll find picturesque views of the church alongside other icons like the Hohenzollern Bridge.

Old Town Market

During the festive season, the Old Town Market transforms into a whimsical wonderland. Nestled in the quaint Old Town, this market draws its theme from local folklore and fairy-tale creatures. It's the perfect spot for families and those seeking a touch of magic. The market offers a unique blend of folklore and festive cheer, making it a delightful experience for all ages.

Romano-Germanic Museum

For a deeper dive into Cologne's ancient roots, the Romano-Germanic Museum is a must-visit attraction. Located near the Cologne Cathedral, it showcases the city's rich Roman past. Built on the original site of a Roman town villa, the museum boasts a stunningly preserved third-century mosaic floor. Explore the extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including glassware, jewelry, and daily life objects that offer a glimpse into the lives of Cologne's Roman inhabitants.

Duftmuseum im Farina Haus

Cologne is known for its fragrant history, and the Duftmuseum im Farina Haus is a testament to that. This fragrance museum, housed in the historic Farina House, offers guided tours that delve into the world of perfumes. Learn about the art of perfumery, discover the secrets of the original Eau de Cologne formula, and admire antique perfume bottles. It's an engaging and sensory experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the city's perfumery heritage.

Heumarkt

Heumarkt is a vibrant cobblestone plaza in the heart of Cologne's Old Town. Known for its annual Christmas market, Heumarkt transforms into a festive wonderland. The market features an ice rink, curling tracks, delicious food, and drinks. It's a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a blend of tradition and modern attractions. Throughout the year, Heumarkt hosts various events, creating a lively atmosphere in the Old Town.

Frequently asked questions