Cologne Things To Do

Sights
The 13th century Gothic cathedral with its landmark spires is one of the most famous sights in Germany. Built over 6 centuries, the Dom features wonderful stained-glass and astonishing religious treasures. Climb to the observation platform for superb views of the city. Cologne also boasts a glorious collection of atmospheric Romanesque churches. Other top Cologne sights include Roman remains, medieval towers, a superb Renaissance Town Hall, Cologne Zoo, outstanding botanical gardens and the famous cable car.

Museums
Cologne has outstanding museums and galleries that can rival Berlin and Hamburg. The Wallraff-Richartz-Museum covers everything from medieval art to 19th century Impressionism, including works by Rubens, Rembrandt, Gauguin, Monet, Renoir, Manet, Cézanne and Van Gogh. The Ludwig Museum of modern art contains Warhol, Liechtenstein, Magritte, Dali and Picasso. The Römischer-Germanisches Museum focuses on Cologne’s Roman history and has amazing mosaics. The Agfa Photo-Historama im Museum is a fascinating collection of 19th and 20th century photographs and photographic equipment. Chocolate addicts should head for the amazing Imhoff-Stollwerck Chocolate Museum with its chocolate fountain, cocoa trees and exotic plants.

Eating & Drinking
Both eating and drinking in Cologne enjoy a legendary status with the Germans themselves. The city is famous for its brewhouses (brauhaus): cosy atmospheric venues where you can sample the famous Kölsch beer from the city’s many breweries. Many of the brewhouses feature wonderful interiors. Cologne restaurants are considered some of the best in Germany. Invariably cosy, welcoming restaurants serve wonderfully hearty Rhineland cuisine throughout the winter, and feature outdoor terraces for warmer weather. Like Hamburg, Munich and Berlin, Cologne offers excellent Turkish, North African, Arab and Asian food too.

Entertainment & Nightlife
Vibrant Cologne nightlife often surprises first-time visitors: plenty of stylish cafes, bars and clubs and a notably relaxed, jovial, good-time atmosphere. Terrifically atmospheric nightlife in the Altstadt, Belgisches Viertel and Univiertel neighbourhoods. Live music includes jazz, Latin and cabaret. Cologne also has a world-class reputation for classical concerts, operas and ballet in outstanding theatres and concert halls. Terrific carnival celebrations in February and gay pride event in July.

Walk & Excursions
No city break in Cologne is complete without a boat trip on the River Rhine. The longer Rhine boat trip to the medieval town of Zons is particularly rewarding. Take the cable car to the Rhinepark. Explore the glorious Poller Wiesen parks along the Rhine. Take a trip to the beautiful Königsforst forest on the outskirts of the city. Coach tours of the Rhine Valley are especially scenic. Or take a train to the medieval old town of Bonn.

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