Exploring Cologne: Best Times To Visit The German City

Cologne, Germany, is a bustling city with life and character, nestled along the Rhine River. The best time to visit depends on what you're looking for. If you're after warmth and sunshine, the summer months of June, July, and August are ideal, with an average temperature of 23°C, sometimes reaching 30°C. However, this is also the busiest time for tourists, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. For cheaper flights and accommodation, May and September offer good weather, with May being the driest month. If you're happy to brave the cold, Cologne is also a great winter destination, with Christmas markets, Karneval celebrations, and a magical festive atmosphere. February is a particularly good month to visit, with legendary Karneval festivities taking over the city. So, whenever you choose to go, there's something unique to discover in Cologne.

Cologne's weather and seasons

Cologne has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique attractions. The city enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with warm summers. The yearly average maximum temperature is 59°F, ranging from 41°F in January to 77°F in August.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Cologne is cold and dark, with temperatures averaging around 3°C during the day and freezing at night. Snowfall is frequent, but often in light snow that rarely accumulates on the ground. The wind can also be a factor, with temperatures feeling much colder when the wind is from the East. Despite the chilly weather, this is a popular time to visit, with Christmas markets and Karneval (Carnival) celebrations drawing big crowds.

Spring (March to May)

Spring sees warmer weather, with temperatures rising to between 40°F and 65°F. Rain is still common, and there can be epic thunderstorms, so an umbrella is a must. This is a good time to visit for those looking for deals, as tourism is slower during these months.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the warmest time of year to visit Cologne, with average temperatures of 23°C, sometimes reaching 30°C. You can expect around 180 hours of sunshine each month, so don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen. The warm weather draws large numbers of tourists, so prices for hotels and flights are often at their highest.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn sees slightly cooler temperatures, with days averaging 15°C in September and getting colder as you move towards November. Days become wet and windy, with the possibility of night frost in November. This is a good time to visit for budget-conscious travellers, as tourist traffic is low, resulting in better prices.

The best months for good weather in Cologne are May, June, July, August, and September. The warmest months are June, July, and August, while January is the coldest. The rainiest months are May, June, July, August, and December.

The city's top attractions

Cologne is home to a plethora of attractions, from its towering cathedral to its charming Old Town. Here are some of the top places to visit during your trip:

• Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom): This Gothic masterpiece is a must-see, with its intricate stained glass, towering spires, and ongoing restoration. It's one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and houses treasures like the 12th-century Reliquary of the Three Kings.
• Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum): Indulge your sweet tooth at this museum, which traces the history of chocolate making. With interactive displays, antique chocolate boxes, and a working production line, it's a treat for all senses.
• Hohenzollern Bridge: Adorned with half a million love locks, this historic bridge offers scenic views of the river and bustling railway. It's a perfect spot for a romantic stroll and cityscape photography.
• NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne: This centre provides an insightful look into Germany's past, focusing on the realities of WWII. It is located in the former headquarters of the Gestapo, making it a sombre but important visit.
• Historic Old Town (Altstadt): Explore the colourful buildings, cobbled lanes, and preserved cathedral of the Historic Old Town. Enjoy diverse dining and shopping amid the resilient post-war ambiance.
• Wallraf-Richartz Museum: Art lovers will appreciate this museum's impressive collection of European paintings, including works by Rembrandt, Manet, Renoir, and more.
• Rhine River Cruise: Don't miss the opportunity to view Cologne from a different perspective by taking a river cruise. You'll get unparalleled views of landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral and the picturesque Old Town.
• Cologne Zoological Gardens (Kölner Zoologischer Garten): One of Germany's oldest zoos, this attraction features a variety of exotic animals and historic menagerie buildings.
• Cologne Cable Car (Rhein-Seilbahn): Get a bird's-eye view of the city by riding the Cologne cable car. It offers stunning vistas of the Old Town, Rhine River, and Cologne Cathedral.
• Flora and Botanical Garden (Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln): This tranquil botanical garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants. Stroll through the colourful flower beds and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the greenhouses.
• Roman-Germanic Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Museum): Just a short walk from the cathedral, this museum offers insight into Cologne's rich archaeological heritage, featuring exhibits from the Paleolithic period to the early Middle Ages.

Events and festivals

Cologne, or Köln in German, is known for its festivals and events. The city has a vibrant culture and a strong sense of community, which is reflected in its diverse range of celebrations throughout the year. Here is a breakdown of some of the notable events and festivals in Cologne:

Karneval (Cologne Carnival)

Karneval is one of the most famous and lively festivals in Cologne. It is a legendary celebration that takes place in February, usually during the off-season, and marks the beginning of the carnival season. The city comes alive with street parades, political commentary, spirited costume balls, elaborate floats, costumed dance groups, and marching bands. It is a time of decadence and excess, with many consuming the city's beloved Kölsch beers. The highlight of Karneval is Rosenmontag (Carnival Monday), where a grand parade makes its way through the streets of Cologne.

Christmas Markets

Cologne is also known for its magical Christmas markets, or "Weihnachtsmärkte", which are considered some of the best in Germany. These markets typically open in late November after the first advent and run through New Year's Eve. Each market has a unique theme, with surrounding venues offering thematic performances. The most popular markets include Markt der Engel and Nikolausdorf, as well as those found in various city quarters, known as "Veedel".

CSD Street Festival and Parade

Cologne celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with pride and enthusiasm. The CSD Street Festival and CSD Parade are part of a series of programmes that showcase the unique spirit of inclusivity and diversity. Most events during this festival are free to attend.

Summerjam

For fans of reggae and dancehall music, Summerjam is the perfect festival. Set on an island in Fühlinger See, a swimming lake in Cologne, this festival offers a unique and enjoyable experience.

Kölner Lichter

Kölner Lichter is a spectacular firework display that illuminates the night sky over the Rhine in July. It is a popular event that attracts many visitors and adds a touch of magic to the summer nights in Cologne.

Gamescom

Cologne is also home to Gamescom, the world's largest computer games trade show, which takes place in August. This event showcases the latest and greatest in the gaming industry, attracting enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Museum Night Cologne (Museumsnacht Köln)

Museum Night Cologne is a special event where various museums and art venues put on unique events and exhibitions. It is a great opportunity to explore the cultural offerings of the city and discover new artistic talents.

Kölner Marathon

The Kölner Marathon is not just a running event but also a fun-filled festival that combines athletic excellence with a celebration of the city. It usually takes place in October, with runners taking to the streets of Cologne and passing by iconic landmarks such as the Rhine and the Cathedral.

Accommodation and prices

Cologne has a wide range of accommodation options, from apartments to hotels, suiting all budgets. The price of your accommodation will depend on the time of year you visit, the location, and the type of accommodation.

When to Visit

February is the off-season in Germany, but it is one of the busiest times to visit Cologne due to the legendary Karneval (Carnival) celebrations. If you plan to visit during this time, booking in advance is essential. Christmas to Silvester is also a busy season, with Christmas markets and street parties. If you prefer quieter times to visit, January and February are the months with the lowest number of tourists.

Where to Stay

The Innenstadt (historic city centre) is a natural first choice for visitors, with iconic landmarks such as the cathedral and Hohenzollern bridge, as well as shopping streets. Prices for a furnished one-bedroom apartment in this area start at €1,000 and can go up to €1,450 per month.

The Cologne Cathedral is one of the main attractions in the city, and there are several hotels nearby, including Stern am Rathaus, Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom, and Hotel Ludwig Superior. Prices for these hotels range from $165 to $304 per night.

If you are looking for accommodation near the airport, the Leonardo Hotel Köln Bonn Airport offers a free 24-hour airport shuttle and is located beside the airport. Prices start at $93 per night.

For those visiting the city on business, the Koelnmesse international trade fair and exhibition centre is a good area to stay. The Radisson Blu Hotel Köln and the Ibis Köln Messe are both located nearby, with prices starting at $145 and $68 per night, respectively.

Types of Accommodation

For those looking for a more unique stay, the Wasserturm Hotel Cologne, Curio Collection by Hilton, is located in the historic 1868 Cologne Water Tower. Prices for this hotel are not available.

If you are visiting with your family, the Maison Marsil - Boutique Hotel Köln is a good option, with spacious rooms that can accommodate families. This centrally-located hotel is close to restaurants and shops, and prices are not available.

For short-term rentals, the Cologne-Porz district offers some of the most affordable options. Furnished one-bedroom apartments in this area start at €750 per month.

Getting Around

To get around the city, Cologne has an integrated system of buses, trams, and overground trains operated by KVB. A single-day ticket costs €8.80. There is also an eco-friendly bike-sharing scheme called KVB-Rad, which you can access through a free app.

Food and drink

Cologne's food and drink scene is as diverse as it is delicious. The city's 1,000-plus restaurants, over 100 bars, 700 pubs, and more than ten starred restaurants cater to every taste, from vegan to meaty, and from home cooking to gourmet dining.

The city's brewery restaurants are a symbol of its traditions and culture. The Köbes, or waiter, will come by with a round tray of Kölsch beer—the local brew, which is a little different depending on the brewery but always made according to the German Purity Law passed in 1516. The sociable and unconventional brewery restaurant culture encourages diners to chat and clink glasses with everyone else. The food is hearty and often includes Sauerbraten, a heavily marinated meat dish served with gravy and potato dumplings.

Other traditional dishes to try include Himmel un Äd mit Flönz, a combination of black pudding and mash ("earth") with apple sauce ("heaven"), usually topped with fried onions; Schweinshaxe, a giant pork knuckle, slow-cooked and served with typical German sides; and Schnitzel, a breaded and pan-fried meat cutlet, often pork, that can be served with sauce, in salads, or on rolls.

For something a little different, try the German take on a classic English dish: Currywurst, a German bratwurst covered in curry sauce and curry powder, served with fries. Or, if you're a fan of sausage but want something lighter, try the German meat salad, which consists of cold cuts of sausage or bologna, thinly cut or shredded, and mixed with vinegar, onions, gherkins, tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings.

For those with a sweet tooth, there are unique pastries such as Apfelschnecken, or "apple snail donuts," which are swirled to resemble a snail shell and filled with apple pieces and a dusting of sugar.

If you're looking for something to drink but don't fancy alcohol, Apfelschorle is a refreshing option: apple juice mixed with carbonated mineral water, similar to non-alcoholic apple cider.

Frequently asked questions