Cologne
What you need to know before you go
Cologne's skyline is dominated by the soaring twin spires of its cavernous cathedral, an iconic example of Gothic architecture and one of Germany's most popular visitor attractions. But there's much more to this ancient riverside city than old world opulence.
The Cologne of today is famously friendly, fun-loving and liberal, with the country's biggest springtime carnival and a loud, proud LGBT community. Nightlife options run the gamut from traditional beer halls to underground techno clubs, while warmly welcoming restaurants serve up hearty local dishes like crispy pork knuckle and succulent schnitzel.
What to see & do in Cologne
Featured stories & fun stuff10 Best Things to Do in Cologne
The list of things to do in Cologne varies from the trendy to the traditional, especially in the Old Town, on the western bank of the River Rhine. Among the narrow cobbled streets here, you’ll find many of the city’s...10 Best Family Things to Do in Cologne
Cologne for kids offers a wide range of family fun and excitement, from unique museums to spooky walking tours, thrilling...10 Iconic Buildings and Places in Cologne
These iconic buildings and places in Cologne have dominated the city's skyline for centuries. This beautiful city has much to...10 Things to Do in Cologne on a Small Budget
Cologne has a remarkable atmosphere, particularly around the charming Old Town, making it a great place for budget travellers. While...10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Cologne
Romantic activities in Cologne abound, from romantic walks along a world-famous river to white-tablecloth dining at luxury restaurants...9 Outdoor Things to Do in Cologne
From boat rides on the river Rhine to a cold Kölsch in a beer garden, Cologne likes to play outside...5 Things to Do in Cologne in Summer
A summer holiday in Cologne means open-deck boat rides on the Rhine, cycle tours past Romanesque churches and a...
Where & what to eat in Cologne
10 Great Restaurants in Cologne
Great restaurants in Cologne look out over the mighty River Rhine and offer some of the best dining experiences in the city. Some of the standout establishments fill half-timbered buildings in the city’s atmospheric Old Town and others repurpose lofty warehouses left redundant by industrial change. The dishes created by the city’s most talented chefs are as varied as...
Where to shop & what to buy in Cologne
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Cologne
The best places to go shopping in Cologne range from vibrant shopping streets and high-end stores to huge department stores and unique boutiques. Whether you’re looking to buy an interesting souvenir for a loved one back home or want...5 Best Markets in Cologne
Markets in Cologne allow you to experience the authentic culture while picking up a wide variety of goods and food to make the most of your holiday in Germany. Cologne is famed for its Christmas and holiday markets, but it...
Where to go & what to do at night in Cologne
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Cologne
The best things to do after dinner in Cologne are mostly found in the city’s Old Town. The Belgian Quarter or Friesen Quarter are also enticing places to explore at night, with scenic streets lined with a lively mix of shops, bars, pubs, and nightclubs. Bar-hoppers could try a taste of the local pale ale called Kölsch, which is...
Useful information
Cologne Travel Essentials
Our Cologne Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help you plan your trip to one of the most popular destinations in Germany. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I...