Exploring Cologne, Germany: Top Attractions And Hidden Gems

Cologne, Germany, is a city steeped in history, with attractions ranging from Roman towers to Gothic churches and modern architectural wonders. Here is an introduction to some of the must-see places and activities the city has to offer.

First and foremost, no trip to Cologne is complete without a visit to the iconic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom). This magnificent Gothic structure, with its towering spires, is Germany's most visited tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral's intricate stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and the mind-boggling 'Richter-Fenster' window are sure to leave you in awe.

For art enthusiasts, the Museum Ludwig is a must-see. It houses one of the largest collections of Picasso's works in the world and showcases modern and contemporary art, including pieces by renowned German artist Gerhard Richter.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, head to Peter's Brauhaus for traditional German cuisine. Indulge in hearty dishes like Himmel un Äd (Sky and Earth) and Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhinish marinated pot roast), paired with the local Kölsch beer.

For a sweet treat, the Chocolate Museum is a delightful stop, offering insights into the history of chocolate and a chance to create your own customised chocolate bar.

For a panoramic view of the city, take a ride on the Kölner Seilbahn (cable car) across the Rhine River. Alternatively, explore the city's green spaces, such as the Botanical Garden, or take a stroll along the scenic River Rhine to admire the old town's architecture.

With its rich history, cultural offerings, and delightful culinary scene, Cologne is sure to captivate your heart and leave you wanting more.

Cologne Cathedral

The cathedral is a renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1996. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne and the administration of the Archdiocese of Cologne.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1248 but was halted in the years around 1560. Attempts to complete the construction began around 1814, but the project was not properly funded until the 1840s. The edifice was completed to its original medieval plan in 1880.

The cathedral is a medieval building that was built very solidly. However, the stone structure requires continuous maintenance and renovation. The cathedral's master builder, Barbara Schock-Werner, said:

> "Cologne Cathedral without scaffolding is not a pipe dream, but a nightmare. It would mean that we would no longer be able to afford the cathedral."

The cathedral is open to tourists on working days (Monday to Saturday) between 10 am and 5 pm and on Sundays between 1 pm and 4 pm. Visitors can climb 533 steps to a viewing platform about 100m above the ground. The platform gives a scenic view over the Rhine.

Roman-Germanic Museum

The Roman-Germanic Museum is one of the prime archaeological museums in Germany. Located next to the Cologne Cathedral (or 'Dom'), it is responsible for preserving the Roman heritage of the city. The museum's collection of Roman glass from funerals and burials is one of the largest in the world.

The museum's permanent exhibits include everyday items like furniture, toys, and jewellery, offering visitors an insight into what day-to-day life was like during Roman times. One of the most fascinating exhibits is the tomb of a Roman officer, Lucius Poblicius, and the 3rd-century Dionysus mosaic, also known as the Greek God of wine. A restored 90-yard stretch of the Roman harbour road takes up the southern side of the museum.

The Roman-Germanic Museum is also a research centre, with archives relating to the archaeology of the city, an extensive documentation of historical monuments, and a specialist library containing 30,000 volumes.

The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with tickets costing 8 euros for adults. Visitors can expect to spend around 2 hours at the museum.

Cologne Old Town

Cologne's Old Town, or Altstadt, is a historic neighbourhood featuring colourful buildings, cobbled lanes, and a preserved cathedral. It's a great place to wander and get lost in the medieval flair of the city. The area boasts diverse dining and shopping options, and its resilient post-war ambiance makes it a unique place to visit. Here are some highlights of what to see and do in Cologne's Old Town:

Attractions

• Cologne Cathedral – One of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals, with a legendary construction period spanning from 1248 to 1880. It is Germany's most-visited tourist attraction and a must-see when in the Old Town.
• Town Hall – Located a stone's throw away from the Cathedral, Cologne's historic Town Hall has over 800 years of building history. The complex includes the core building, a town hall tower, a Renaissance arbour, and an administrative wing.
• Farina Fragrance Museum – Housed in the original production rooms of the 18th century, this museum showcases the history of Eau de Cologne. Visitors can learn about perfume-making, see historical exhibits, and even enjoy a fragrant guided tour.
• Wallraf-Richartz Museum – The oldest museum in Cologne, featuring the world's most extensive collection of medieval paintings. It also boasts impressive collections of Impressionist and Neo-Impressionist art.
• Museum Ludwig – Located next to the Cathedral, this museum showcases a cross-section of art from the last 125 years, including pop art, Picasso, and Expressionism.
• Botanical Gardens Flora – These tranquil botanical gardens boast a diverse array of global flora, serene picnic spots, and a charming outdoor café.

Dining and Drinking

The Old Town has a variety of pubs, restaurants, and breweries to discover, including:

• Früh – A popular spot located in the quaint alleys and traditional houses of the Old Town.
• Cafés and Restaurants in Rudolfplatz – This area offers a variety of good cafes, bars, and restaurants, away from the tourist traps near the main station.
• Peter's Brauhaus – A traditional German dining experience with hearty meals and the local Kölsch beer.

Tours

There are various tours available to explore the Old Town, including:

• Walking Tours – Explore the Old Town's history, attractions, and hidden gems on a guided or self-guided walking tour.
• Brewery Tours – Learn about the local Kölsch beer and visit some of the city's breweries.
• River Cruise and Boat Tours – Enjoy a different perspective of the Old Town from the Rhine River.

Cologne Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a must-visit for chocolate lovers. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of chocolate and cocoa, with exhibits covering the cultural history, production, and trade of chocolate over 5,000 years. Here is a detailed overview of what you can expect during your visit:

The Museum's Exhibits and Attractions:

• The World of Cocoa and Chocolate: The museum showcases the diverse cultural history of cocoa and chocolate, dating back 5,000 years. You will learn about the transformation of cocoa beans into chocolate and the modern industrial process of chocolate-making.
• Walk-through Greenhouse: Explore a tropical greenhouse that takes you on a journey from the cocoa harvest to the major stock exchanges of world trade.
• Chocolate Fountain: One of the museum's highlights is the famous chocolate fountain containing 200 kilograms of chocolate. It flows down from a height of three meters, creating a tantalizing sight.
• Historical Artifacts and Machinery: The museum displays a collection of historic items, including an 18th and 19th-century porcelain and silver collection, pre-Columbian Mesoamerican exhibits, and various historical industrial machines from the period of industrialization.
• Glass-walled Production Facility and Chocolate Workshop: Visitors can witness both mechanized and manual processes of chocolate-making in this area. You'll see how chocolate products are crafted and have the opportunity to create your own customized chocolate bar.
• Café and Shop: After exploring the museum, you can relax at the CHOCOLAT Grand Café, which offers delicious chocolate specialties and stunning views of the Rhine. The museum also has a shop where you can purchase various chocolates and gifts.

Tickets and Practical Information:

The Chocolate Museum is located in the Rheinauhafen (Rheinau Harbour) and is easily accessible by public transport. It is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 h, with varied opening hours during Carnival. Tickets are available online and at the museum. The museum offers guided tours, and there are special tickets like family tickets or combo tickets that include attractions such as the nearby Ferris wheel.

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is a delightful experience for all ages, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and, of course, delicious chocolate treats. Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur or simply looking for a sweet adventure, a visit to the Chocolate Museum is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Cologne Botanical Garden

The Cologne Botanical Garden, or the Flora, is a tranquil botanical retreat that boasts a diverse array of flora from around the world. It is conveniently located next to the city zoo and is home to about 12,000 plant species across 5.5 hectares of land. The garden features many different styles, such as English landscape, Italian Renaissance, and French Baroque. A stroll along the shaded arcades will take you past waterfalls, ponds, springs, and a fountain. You can also explore the alpine plantings, the iris garden, and the lily garden before visiting the greenhouses.

The garden is free to enter and is open daily from 8 am until dusk. The plant houses are open from October to March from 10 am to 4 pm, and from April to September from 10 am to 6 pm.

The Flora has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It was created by one of the most influential landscape gardeners of that time, Peter Joseph Lenné, and his signature style can still be seen today. The garden features a glass palace or "orangery", an architectural structure of cast iron and glass that was modelled on London's Crystal Palace and the Jardin d'hiver in Paris.

The botanical garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while admiring the beautiful plants and flowers. It also has a cafe and restaurant, making it a perfect spot to spend a few hours or even the whole day.

Frequently asked questions