Cologne walking tour & city guide
A giant gothic cathedral on the Rhine.
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Cologne, founded by the Romans 2,000 years ago, is one of Germany's oldest cities and one of its friendliest. Its huge gothic cathedral towers over the Rhine, and the old town is full of traditional breweries where waiters keep your small glass of Kölsch beer topped up.
The cathedral
Cologne Cathedral is one of the largest churches in the world and a masterpiece of gothic architecture. Construction began in 1248 and was only completed in 1880. Inside, the golden Shrine of the Three Kings is said to hold the relics of the Magi. Climb the 533 steps of the south tower for a view over the city and the river.
The cathedral survived the heavy bombing of the Second World War, while much of the city around it was destroyed. Today it stands right next to the main railway station, making it the first thing many visitors see.
The old town and the Rhine
The Altstadt, the rebuilt old town, has colorful gabled houses along the riverfront and small squares such as the Alter Markt and Heumarkt. The Romano-Germanic Museum and the Museum Ludwig, with its modern art, are next to the cathedral.
Walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, covered with thousands of love locks, to the other bank for the classic view of the cathedral and the skyline. The Rhine promenade is great for an evening stroll, and river cruises run in summer.
Visiting tips
Cologne's carnival, which begins officially on November 11 and peaks in February, is one of the biggest street parties in Europe. The Christmas markets in December are also very popular. The city is well connected by fast trains to Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Brussels and Paris.
Top sights in Cologne
- 1
Cologne Cathedral
A UNESCO-listed gothic masterpiece.
- 2
Hohenzollern Bridge
A railway bridge covered in love locks.
- 3
Altstadt
The old town with colorful riverside houses.
- 4
Museum Ludwig
A major museum of modern art.
- 5
Chocolate Museum
A museum by the river about chocolate making.
- 6
Rhine promenade
A riverside walk with views of the city.
Food markets & where to eat in Cologne
Altstadt brewhouses
Traditional Kölsch breweries serving local food.
Belgian Quarter
A trendy area of cafés, bars and boutiques.
Ehrenfeld
A multicultural neighborhood with street food and bars.
Weekly markets
Local produce markets around the city.
Food to try in Cologne
Kölsch
Cologne's light beer, served in small glasses called Stangen.
Halve Hahn
Not chicken, but a rye roll with aged Gouda cheese and mustard.
Himmel un Ääd
Mashed potato and apple with black pudding.
Reibekuchen
Crispy potato pancakes, often served with apple sauce.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Cologne
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in CologneCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Cologne.
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