Exploring Cologne, Germany In November: A Local's Guide

Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is a great destination for slow, stress-free travel. It's a laid-back city that feels unassuming, yet surprising. Cologne is the opposite of pompous. It's a city of clowns, Kölsch (locals), and immigrants.

In November, when Christmas markets are in full swing, Cologne is especially vibrant. Here are some of the top things to do in Cologne in November:

- Visit the Cologne Cathedral: Explore the magnificent Gothic architecture and climb the towers for panoramic views of the city.

- Take a Boat Tour on the Rhine River: Enjoy breathtaking views of the autumn foliage along the Rhine River.

- Sample Traditional German Cuisine: Indulge in hearty and comforting German dishes at a cozy tavern, pairing your meal with a local beer or wine.

- Attend the Cologne Carnival Opening Ceremony: Join the colourful parades, music, and dancing as the city kicks off its famous Carnival season.

- Explore the Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets and discover historic landmarks, charming cafes, and vibrant squares.

- Visit the Chocolate Museum: Learn about the history of chocolate and create your own chocolate treats.

- Stroll through the Botanical Garden: Admire the plants from all climatic zones and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

- Discover the Fragrance Museum: Learn about the history of Eau de Cologne and take a guided tour of the oldest intact perfume factory in the world.

- Climb the KölnTriangle skyscraper: Take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

- Relax in Claudius Therme: Unwind in the thermal pools and saunas at this wellness complex.

Visit the Cologne Cathedral

The Cologne Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the city. Its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate beauty will leave you breathless. This magnificent structure, located right next to the train station, is one of the tallest cathedrals in the world and has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Cologne Cathedral is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1248 and was completed to its original medieval plan in 1880, making it 632 years in the making. The cathedral is built from different types of rock, including trachyte and sandstone, and many sculptures and canopies are made of limestone. The black patina, resulting from weathering, soot and biofouling, has been a characteristic feature for centuries.

The cathedral is open daily from 6 am to 8 pm. It is free to enter, but it can get quite crowded during peak hours (around midday). If you're short on time, just take the train to the city centre and visit this wonder of the world. The Cologne Cathedral is Germany's most visited landmark, attracting an average of 6 million people a year.

You can explore the cathedral by yourself outside Mass times, which are held at various times throughout the day. The first Mass is at 6.30 am on weekdays, and 7 am on Sundays. The last Mass is at 6.30 pm every day. Devotion takes place from Monday to Friday at 6 pm.

The Cologne Cathedral is also known for housing the Shrine of the Three Kings, which contains the relics of the Magi. Other notable works of art include the 4th-century St. Peter's Staff, which can be found in the cathedral's underground treasure chamber, along with numerous other reliquaries, liturgical utensils, vestments and manuscripts.

The colourful glass windows are especially impressive, bringing a vibrant intensity of colour to the interior. With over 10,000 square metres of windows, it has the largest window area of any church in the world. Some windows date back to the Middle Ages, while others have been restored according to old sketches, and some, like the Richter window, are more modern creations.

For a small fee, you can climb the 533 steps to the top of the cathedral's towers for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. This climb is challenging but rewarding, as you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of Cologne and its picturesque surroundings.

Please note that only small bags and rucksacks up to a size of 40x35x15cm are allowed inside the cathedral. Visitors can store their luggage in the left-luggage office next to the Cologne Cathedral Shop for a fee of 2 euros per hour or part thereof. Identity checks may be performed by cathedral staff when entering the cathedral, so be prepared for this.

When visiting the Cologne Cathedral, remember to dress appropriately. Sleeveless or cropped tops, short shorts or skirts are considered inappropriate. Men may cover their heads for health or religious reasons. Religiously offensive or racist symbols will not be tolerated. Food and drink should be consumed outside the cathedral, and smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted inside.

Take a scenic boat tour along the Rhine River

Cologne in November is the perfect time to take a scenic boat tour along the Rhine River. The river offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as the autumn foliage transforms the scenery into a stunning display of colours. A boat trip along the Rhine is a memorable experience, allowing visitors to relax and take in the beauty of the region from a different vantage point.

There are several options for boat tours along the Rhine River in Cologne. Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD), the largest operator of day cruises and pleasure boats on the Rhine River, offers many round-trip panorama cruises. These cruises provide a unique perspective of the city and its picturesque surroundings. Another company, Kölntourist, also offers round-trip cruises from Cologne. Tickets for these cruises can be easily purchased online or at ticket kiosks, and special discount fares may be available.

The Rhine River boat tours offer a range of experiences, from leisurely cruises to guided tours. Some cruises include coffee breaks, dancing, lunch, or dinner. For a romantic evening, opt for a cruise that showcases the Cologne Cathedral lit up in green, with the sparkling lights of the city reflected in the gentle rhythm of the swirling water. You can also take a panoramic cruise with a view of Cologne's sights, learning interesting facts about the city's history.

In addition to the stunning views, boat tours on the Rhine River provide an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region. The river is lined with ancient ruins and castles, including the Drachenfels, Rolandsbogen, and the remains of the bridge at Remagen. The boat tours also pass by small neighbouring towns and the picturesque Siebengebirge hills.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing cruise or an informative tour, a boat trip along the Rhine River in November is a perfect way to experience the beauty and charm of Cologne.

Sample traditional German food and drink

Cologne is known for its unique Kolsch beer and its own brand of Brauhaus cuisine that isn't served elsewhere in the country. Here are some traditional German foods and drinks to sample:

Himmel un Äd mit Flönz

This dish is often called "earth" and "heaven" because it uses black pudding and mash that represent "earth" with apple sauce, which represents "heaven". It's usually topped with fried onions.

Schnitzel

A meat cutlet (usually pork) that is coated in breadcrumbs and pan-fried. It can come in many varieties, such as with sauce, other cuts of meat, or put in other dishes like salads or pastas.

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is meat that is heavily marinated for up to 10 days. It is marinated in vinegar, wine, herbs, and spices. The meat is sliced and served with hearty gravy and potato dumplings.

Eisbein, also known as Hämmche

A salt-cured knuckle of pork.

Mettbrötchen

A bread roll with minced pork, raw onion, and sprinkled with salt and pepper.

Reibekuchen

Potato pancakes that are usually served either plain or with apple sauce. They are often paired with dark rye bread and salmon.

Kölsch

Kölsch is the local beer that you will find throughout Cologne. It is considered a cross between lager and ale.

Apfelschorle

For those who don't drink alcohol, apfelschorle is a good option. It is apple juice mixed with carbonated mineral water.

Explore the Old Town

Cologne's Old Town is a delightful shopping experience, with a diverse array of shops and boutiques offering unique souvenirs and fashion items. The historic charm of the area adds to its appeal, making it a must-visit destination for shoppers and history enthusiasts alike. Here's a detailed guide to exploring the Old Town:

• Heumarkt and Altermarkt: These historic squares are worth visiting for their old-world atmosphere and charming cobblestone alleys. Heumarkt is a lively gathering spot, often hosting events like the Christmas market and ice skating. Altermarkt, on the other hand, is home to the iconic Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, a fountain featuring Cologne's beloved gnomes.
• Am Hof: Stroll along this street and look out for the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, a fountain from 1899 that depicts the city's gnomes, who are said to have done the city's work at night.
• Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): This Gothic cathedral is a must-see when exploring the Old Town. With its stunning architecture and rich history, it's no wonder that it's the single most visited landmark in Germany. Don't miss the chance to climb the towers for panoramic views of the city.
• Romano-Germanic Museum: Located near the cathedral, this museum showcases the city's Roman past. It was built around a Roman villa discovered during World War II, with the highlight being the beautiful Dionysus mosaic.
• Wallraf-Richartz Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of art, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Impressionist pieces. You'll find works by renowned artists such as Dürer, Rubens, Rembrandt, Monet, and many more.
• St. Maria im Kapitol: This Romanesque church is one of the largest in Cologne, dating back to the 11th century. Admire the original wooden doors from 1046 and the intricate patterning depicting the life of Christ.
• Cologne's Old Market (Alter Markt): This market square is a great place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. It's also a popular spot for dining, with a variety of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
• Duftmuseum im Farina Haus: Located in the Old Town, this fragrance museum offers guided tours that take you through the history of Eau de Cologne. Learn about the creation of this iconic perfume and even create your own scent.
• Lindt Chocolate Museum: Indulge your sweet tooth at this unique museum dedicated to chocolate. Learn about the history of chocolate, participate in workshops, and satisfy your cravings with delicious treats.
• Cologne Central Station (Köln Hauptbahnhof): This modern train terminus offers a convenient way to explore the city. With shops, restaurants, and easy access to the Cologne Cathedral, it's a great starting point for your Old Town exploration.

Attend the Cologne Carnival Christmas Market

Cologne's Christmas Markets are a must-visit attraction. These traditional markets offer a magical experience with their twinkling lights, festive decorations, and charming wooden stalls selling handmade crafts, gifts, and delicious seasonal treats. Cologne flaunts seven different Christmas markets, each boasting a unique theme and vibe. Here's what you need to know about the markets:

Dates and Locations

The Cologne Christmas Markets usually open in mid-to-late November and close around December 23rd. The markets are scattered throughout the city, with some of the most popular ones being the Cathedral Market at the Kölner Dom, the Angel's Christmas Market at Neumarkt, the Harbor Market at the Chocolate Museum, and the Stadtgarden Market in the Belgian Quarter.

Highlights and Things to Do

• Soak in the festive atmosphere: Each market has its own unique theme and decorations, from angels and gnomes to nautical and gay pride themes.
• Shop for handmade gifts: The markets offer a wide range of handcrafted gifts, including ornaments, wooden bowls, specialty chocolates, and more.
• Indulge in delicious treats: Sample traditional German delicacies like mulled wine (gluhwien), hot chocolate, waffles, potato pancakes, and bratwurst.
• Enjoy live entertainment: Some markets feature live music, carol singing, and even women dressed as angels walking around for photo ops.
• Collect mugs: Each market has its own unique mug design, which you can take home as a souvenir (just remember to pay the small deposit).
• Go ice skating: Some markets, like Heinzel's Winter Fairytale, have large ice rinks where you can skate or try your hand at curling.
• Take a Christmas Market Express: If you're feeling tired from walking between markets, hop on the Christmas Market Express train, which runs a loop between four of the markets for a small fee.

Frequently asked questions