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black chopper motorcycle beside building - Photo by Daniel von Appen

Explore the Beauty of Cologne, Germany: A Travel Blogger’

About Cologne, Germany

Cologne, Germany is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Famous for its stunning cathedral, it's also home to a lively arts scene, and a bustling nightlife. With plenty of things to see and do, it's the perfect destination for any traveler looking for a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities.

Cologne is a city in western Germany, located on the banks of the Rhine River. With a rich history, beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural scene, it is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Cologne is the Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that stands tall over the city's skyline. Visitors can climb the 533 steps to the top of the cathedral for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River.

Another popular attraction is the Romano-Germanic Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Roman artifacts. Visitors can see ancient mosaics, pottery, and jewelry, among other treasures.

Cologne is also famous for its Christmas markets, which draw millions of visitors every year. The markets offer a range of traditional foods and drinks, as well as handcrafted gifts and souvenirs.

But Cologne is not just about history and culture. It is also a modern and dynamic city with a thriving arts and music scene. Visitors can explore the city's many galleries, theaters, and concert halls, or simply stroll through its lively streets and squares.

For those interested in the local cuisine, Cologne has plenty to offer. From traditional German dishes like schnitzel and sausages to international cuisine and vegetarian options, there is something for everyone.

Overall, Cologne is a vibrant and fascinating destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a dynamic European city, Cologne is definitely worth a visit.

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Popular Stays in Cologne, Germany

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Cologne, Germany

Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne MGallery: in the heart of Cologne's Old Town, with Cologne Cathedral, Rhine, exhibition grounds, shopping streets, museums and other attractions a stone's throw away. The "Reissdorf im Mondial" serves regional dishes and draft beer in the setting of a modern Cologne brewery overlooking the cathedral. Its ideal location makes the hotel perfect for business or leisure.
The 4-star Mercure Hotel Severinshof Köln City is right at the heart of the lively metropolis, in the popular Severinsviertel area. In just a few minutes, you can reach the old town, cathedral, main train station, Lanxess Arena and exhibition center. The hotel has 253 modern non-smoking rooms with free WIFI. We have 6 rooms that can accommodate up to 200 people available for your event. At RELAX - FOOD, DRINKS & YOU, you can eat and drink in a relaxed lounge atmosphere with a large sun terrace.
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Hilton Cologne

With a stay at Hilton Cologne, you'll be centrally located in Cologne, within a 10-minute walk of Cologne Cathedral and Old Market. This spa hotel is 0. 9 mi (1. 4 km) from Neumarkt and 1. 3 mi (2. 1 km) from Chocolate Museum. Take time to pamper yourself with a visit to the full-service spa. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, tour/ticket assistance, and a ballroom. Make yourself at home in one of the 296 guestrooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Private bathrooms with showers feature designer toiletries and hair dryers. Satisfy your appetite for lunch or dinner at the hotel's bar/lounge, Pigeon Post Bar, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Buffet breakfasts are served on weekdays from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM and on weekends from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include limo/town car service, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Cologne? This hotel has 0 square feet (0 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and 9 meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Hohe Strasse - 0. 2 km / 0. 1 mi- Pixie Fountain - 0. 4 km / 0. 3 mi- Museum Ludwig - 0. 4 km / 0. 3 mi- Wallraf Square - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Cologne Cathedral - 0. 5 km / 0.
Next to a peaceful lake in the city's verdant green belt and adjacent to the bustling Mediapark, the NH Collection Köln Mediapark Hotel strategically straddles Cologne's natural beauty and economic heartbeat. French architect Jean Nouvel designed the modern hotel next to Cologne's tallest building, Cologne Tower, keeping the business and leisure traveler in mind. A short walk to Hansaring station connects guests with Cologne's historic city center and famous sites including Cologne Cathedral, Kölner Zoo, Botanical Gardens Flora, the Roman-German Museum, the Chocolate Museum and the Cologne Christmas Market. All 217 of the hotel's contemporary rooms include spacious bathrooms, walk-in closets, Nespresso machines and water kettles. Many showcase views of the lake and Cologne Cathedral. NH Collection Köln Mediapark also offers a 24-hour gym and sauna facilities for guests. Each morning, the hotel hosts a healthy buffet, complete with fresh juices, cheeses, meats and pastries. Later in the day, the hotel restaurant welcomes diners for regional and seasonal dishes for lunch and dinner. In the warmer months, guests can enjoy their meals with a cold Kölsch beer or cocktail on the lakeside terrace. The hotel's 7 meeting rooms can accommodate small and large-scale events, for gatherings of up to 250 attendees.
Located in Neustadt South, Steigenberger Hotel Koln is a perfect starting point from which to explore Cologne. The hotel offers a high standard of service and amenities to suit the individual needs of all travelers. All the necessary facilities, including 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, daily housekeeping, wheelchair accessible, 24-hour front desk, are at hand. Some of the well-appointed guestrooms feature television LCD/plasma screen, carpeting, internet access – wireless, internet access – wireless (complimentary), non smoking rooms. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. Steigenberger Hotel Koln is an excellent choice from which to explore Cologne or to simply relax and rejuvenate.
The hotel lies about 20 minutes from the city centre and the main train station. The closest tram station, Rudolfplatz, is only around 2 minutes away on foot. The 5-storey hotel comprises a total of 78 rooms. Facilities include a bar and a restaurant with non-smoking areas. Car parking facilities are offered to those arriving by car. The pleasing and modern rooms come with an en suite bathroom with hairdryer, a direct dial telephone, satellite/ pay TV, a radio, a minibar/ fridge and a hire safe. Leisure facilities include a sun terrace, a sauna and fitness area.
This hotel offers a bespoke Family Experience for travellers below the age of 12. Children enjoy a Kids Welcome and a dedicated Kids Breakfast experience. Enjoy your family meals by selecting dishes from the Kids Menu. The hotel has a range of kids amenities available upon request. Located on a quiet street, our hotel is within walking distance of several shops, eateries, and cultural sites. We are five minutes from the Cologne Chocolate Museum and River Rhine, and 10 minutes from Koelnmesse exhibition and conference center. Take in 360-degree views of the city and Cologne Cathedral from our rooftop bar.
Only 200 m from the Rhine, just a short walk to the Cathedral: The 4-star Mercure Hotel at Belfort Street, Cologne is centrally located north of the main train station. All the attractions of the old town, museums and Schildergasse shopping street are within easy reach. The hotel has 128 air-conditioned Comfort Rooms with free Wi-Fi. We are particularly proud of our 17m pool: Guests use Cologne's longest hotel swimming pool for free. For your car, paid garages or outdoor parking spaces are available.

Things to do in Cologne, Germany

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Cologne, Germany

Combine classic sightseeing with a relaxing bike tour of Cologne. You will ride along a scenic route 10m (15km) that takes you to the city's highlights. See the legendary cathedral city located along the Rhine River, dating back about 2,000 years. Enjoy numerous photo stops with great panoramic views, the personalized experience only a small-group activity (maximum 15) provides, and commentary from your professional guide. Bike and helmet is included.
Birthplace of Eau de Cologne, Cologne is a wonderful medieval city composed of several World Heritage Sites like the Cologne Cathedral and Brühl Castle. This tour covers all Cologne's great architectures, but also its history by visiting the Fragrance Museum, and the Chocolate Museum. It will be a wonder for your sense of smell, taste, and sight. Tour timings are flexible and can be amended depending on availability.
Discover Cologne with all your senses! We are offering walking tours in Cologne, Germany, for groups, individuals and businesspersons. Our clients benefit from our local guides. The tour isn`t centred only around the historical facts and the famous Dom Cathedral, but also around the local culture and people, culinary highlights, hidden gems and insider stories. Please feel free to reach out. Tour timings and itinerary are flexible and can be changed depending on availability and demand. ---Travel brings power and love back into your life.--- by Rumi
On this tour our guide will be exclusively there for you and your friends, family, clubmates or colleagues. Combine classic sightseeing with a relaxing bike tour of Cologne. You will ride along a scenic route 10m (15km) that takes you to the city's highlights. See the legendary cathedral city located along the Rhine River, dating back about 2,000 years. Enjoy numerous photo stops with great panoramic views, the personalized experience only a private (group) activity provides, and commentary from your professional guide. This tour is the best and most compact way to get to know the city and asorb it's atmossphere. Bike and helmet is included.
Join a Local for a 90-minute visual exploration of Cologne, discovering the city's vibrant lifestyle and its most Instagrammable highlights. Spice up your socials as you capture the picturesque Cologne Cathedral to the visually stunning Hohenzollern Bridge and immerse yourself into Cologne’s everyday charm as your Local guides you through its lively neighbourhoods. From eye-catching scenery to vibrant local encounters, this experience with a Local is a definite must-do for those seeking a personal and authentic discovery of Cologne. • Navigate Cologne's most Insta-worthy spots with a Local. • Capture Cologne’s landmarks, scenic spots and everyday life. • Experience Cologne through the eyes of a Local and gain cultural insights. • Get local recommendations on trendy eateries to upcoming hotspots. • Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, with a maximum of 6 travellers.
Star Limos Limousine Service Germany offers Limousines, Stretchlimousines, Partybuses and Classic Cars with driver in the region Cologne, Bonn, Duesseldorf, Aachen, Siegburg and Ruhr district. International Airport Codes: DUS, CGN Sedan and Limousine Service.
This experience is provided by an independent Local. Cologne is the must-go destination for culture enthusiasts. With over 40 museums, numerous art galleries, and art fairs, the city offers culture fans an unforgettable encounter with classic, contemporary, and street art. Join me for an exploration of Cologne's lively street art scene in the city's most artistic neighborhood! This experience is designed to give you a deeper understanding of urban art, its creators, and the stories they tell through their craft. Come ready to walk, explore, learn, and be amazed by the talent and creativity found on every corner. Whether you're a street art enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, this experience promises to surprise and inspire you! Our walk concludes at the delightful Café Goldmund, a true haven for literature and coffee enthusiasts alike. Who is a Local? A Local is someone who is passionate about sharing authentic experiences based on their interests.
Visit the city of Cologne, which is the largest city of Germany, where you will perceive with your eyes, the famous landmarks: -The tallest twin-spired Catholic cathedral which is also a renowned world heritage site. -You will learn about the history of Germany’s oldest city hall, dating 900 years old. -Discover the history revealed by the ancient documents of the great St. Martin church. -End your tour by visiting the historic Old Market Place of the city. Tour timings are flexible and can be amended depending on availability.

Why People Love Cologne, Germany

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Cologne, Germany

T
Ted_S
5
Sep 2023
Great bike tour. The bike tour on our river cruise ship was cancelled and found this on the web. Wow, much better than what we would have had! There were six of us, plus our well informed guide. Sara (sp?) took us through some back streets most people would find. Showed us places we could walk af...
D
dortem353
5
Oct 2023
Wonderfull tour. You get to see places and details of Køln you'll never reach by yourself. Also local stories as "the big blue trashbag" and the "nude-spa-segelbahn problem" comes up. Sarah was a great and sweet guide. Thank you.
SH
Storm H
5
Jun 2023
Absolutely Loved!!! Lisa was our guide and she is so knowledgeable and I learned so much about Cologne and Germany! We rode through so many amazing spots and got to see so much. The ride was very relaxing. We were only in Germany for one day and the tour covered everything we needed! For our grou...

Explore all stays in Cologne, Germany

Explore all things to do in Cologne, Germany

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cologne

What are some must-visit attractions in Cologne?

Cologne has plenty of attractions that you should visit during your trip. Some of the must-visit attractions include the Cologne Cathedral, the Museum Ludwig, the Chocolate Museum, and the Hohenzollern Bridge. The Cologne Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is home to some of the most beautiful stained glass windows in the world. The Museum Ludwig is a modern art museum that has a fantastic collection of contemporary art. The Chocolate Museum is a great place to learn about the history of chocolate and to sample some of the best chocolate in Germany. Finally, the Hohenzollern Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that offers stunning views of the Rhine River and the city skyline.

What are some popular activities in Cologne?

Cologne is a vibrant city that offers plenty of activities for visitors. Some of the most popular activities include exploring the city's historic Old Town, taking a boat tour of the Rhine River, and visiting the city's many museums. The Old Town is a must-see for anyone visiting Cologne. It's home to some of the city's most historic buildings, including the Cologne Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. A boat tour of the Rhine River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective, and there are many different tour companies that offer river cruises. Finally, Cologne has many museums that are worth visiting, including the Museum Ludwig, the German Sports and Olympic Museum, and the Museum Schntgen.

What are some of the best restaurants in Cologne?

Cologne has a great food scene, with plenty of fantastic restaurants to choose from. Some of the best restaurants in the city include Botanischer Garten, Fischhaus, and Restaurant Ox & Klee. Botanischer Garten is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a fantastic selection of plant-based dishes. Fischhaus is a seafood restaurant that serves some of the freshest fish in the city. Finally, Restaurant Ox & Klee is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique take on traditional German cuisine.

What are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Cologne?

Cologne has many great neighborhoods to stay in, depending on your interests and budget. Some of the best neighborhoods for tourists include the Old Town, the Belgian Quarter, and Ehrenfeld. The Old Town is the heart of the city and is home to many of the city's main attractions, as well as plenty of restaurants and shops. The Belgian Quarter is a trendy neighborhood that's known for its nightlife and art scene. Ehrenfeld is a hip neighborhood that's popular with young people and has plenty of bars and clubs.

What are some of the best hotels in Cologne?

Cologne has many great hotels to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. Some of the best hotels in the city include the Excelsior Hotel Ernst, the Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne, and the Hyatt Regency Cologne. The Excelsior Hotel Ernst is a luxury hotel that's located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the Cologne Cathedral. The Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne is a four-star hotel that's located just steps away from the Cologne Cathedral. Finally, the Hyatt Regency Cologne is a five-star hotel that's located on the banks of the Rhine River and offers fantastic views of the city skyline.

What is the best way to get around Cologne?

Cologne has a great public transportation system that's easy to use and affordable. The city's tram and bus systems are operated by KVB, and there are many different ticket options available, including single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. If you prefer to travel by bike, there are many bike rental shops in the city, and the city has a great network of bike paths that make it easy to get around. Finally, if you're interested in exploring the city by boat, there are many different boat tour companies that offer sightseeing tours of the city's waterways.

What is the best time of year to visit Cologne?

The best time of year to visit Cologne depends on your interests and preferences. If you're interested in seeing the city's Christmas markets, then the best time to visit is between late November and early January. The Christmas markets are a highlight of the city's holiday season and are known for their festive atmosphere and delicious food. If you're interested in outdoor activities, then the best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. Finally, if you're interested in cultural events, then the best time to visit is between September and November, when the city hosts many different festivals and events.

What are some of the best day trips from Cologne?

Cologne is located in the heart of the Rhineland, which means that there are many great day trips that you can take from the city. Some of the best day trips include visiting the city of Bonn, the town of Monschau, and the castle of Burg Eltz. Bonn is a historic city that's home to many museums and cultural attractions. Monschau is a picturesque town that's known for its half-timbered houses and beautiful hiking trails. Finally, Burg Eltz is a medieval castle that's located in the Moselle Valley and is one of the most beautiful castles in Germany.

What are some of the best shopping destinations in Cologne?

Cologne has many great shopping destinations, with something to suit every taste and budget. Some of the best shopping destinations in the city include Hohe Strae, Schildergasse, and the Ehrenstrae. Hohe Strae is a pedestrian shopping street that's home to many different stores, including international chains and local boutiques. Schildergasse is another pedestrian shopping street that's known for its high-end fashion stores. Finally, the Ehrenstrae is a trendy shopping street that's popular with young people and is home to many different independent boutiques and second-hand stores.

What are some of the best bars and clubs in Cologne?

Cologne has a great nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Some of the best bars in the city include the Brauhaus Frh am Dom, the Papa Joe's Jazzlokal, and the Shepheard Irish Pub. Brauhaus Frh am Dom is a traditional brewery that's located in the heart of the city and is a great place to try some local beer. Papa Joe's Jazzlokal is a popular jazz club that's known for its live music and relaxed atmosphere. Finally, the Shepheard Irish Pub is a classic Irish pub that's popular with locals and tourists alike.

What are some of the best museums in Cologne?

Cologne has many great museums that are worth visiting, depending on your interests. Some of the best museums in the city include the Museum Ludwig, the Wallraf-Richartz Museum, and the Museum Schntgen. The Museum Ludwig is a modern art museum that has a fantastic collection of contemporary art. The Wallraf-Richartz Museum is a fine art museum that's home to many works by famous artists, including Rembrandt and Rubens. Finally, the Museum Schntgen is a museum that's dedicated to medieval art and has a fantastic collection of religious artifacts.