Cologne, Germany

Welcome to Cologne, Germany: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Cologne, located on the Rhine River in western Germany, is a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment. From its stunning cathedral to its vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this amazing destination.

Places to Visit

1. Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral)

  • Address: Domkloster 4, 50668 Köln
  • Opening Hours: Mon - Sat: 6 AM - 10 PM, Sun: 7 AM - 10 PM
  • Admission: Guided tours available for a fee; self-guided visits are free but donations are appreciated

The Kölner Dom is one of the most famous landmarks in Germany. This magnificent Gothic cathedral took nearly eight centuries to complete and features intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and an impressive collection of art and artifacts.

2. Hansel und Gretel Haus (Witches’ House)

  • Address: Hans-Sachs-Platz 10, 50668 Köln
  • Opening Hours: Tues - Sun: 10 AM - 6 PM; Mon closed
  • Admission: Free admission

This half-timbered house is said to have been the residence of a witch who lived in the 17th century. Today, it’s a museum that showcases traditional German architecture and offers insight into the lives of ordinary people during this period.

3. Roman-Germanic Museum

  • Address: Roncalliplatz 4, 50668 Köln
  • Opening Hours: Tues - Sun: 10 AM - 5 PM; Mon closed
  • Admission: €7 (reduced rates for students and seniors)

This museum is dedicated to the history of the Roman Empire in Germany. It features an impressive collection of artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and other archaeological finds.

Activities

1. River Rhine Cruise

  • Departure Point: Various points along the river
  • Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
  • Price: €15 - €25 per person (depending on the operator and type of boat)

A river cruise is a great way to see Cologne from a different perspective. You can take a guided tour or simply enjoy the views while listening to music or commentary.

2. Cologne Carnival

  • Date: Varies, usually in February or March
  • Location: Various locations throughout the city

The Cologne Carnival is one of the largest and most famous carnivals in Europe. It features parades, parties, and other events that showcase the city’s festive spirit.

Where to Eat

1. Früh (Café Früh)

  • Address: Hohe Str. 94-96, 50668 Köln
  • Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 8 AM - 10 PM; Sat and Sun: 9 AM - 10 PM

This historic café has been a staple of Cologne’s culinary scene for over 150 years. It offers a range of traditional German dishes, including beer-glazed sausages and apple strudel.

2. Sankt-Georg (Restaurant Sankt-Georg)

  • Address: Lüderichstr. 1, 50668 Köln
  • Opening Hours: Tues - Sat: 12 PM - 10 PM; Sun closed

This cozy restaurant serves modern German cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. It’s a great place to try dishes like venison steak and pan-seared salmon.

3. Café Reichard

  • Address: Alter Markt 92-94, 50668 Köln
  • Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 8 AM - 10 PM; Sat and Sun: 9 AM - 10 PM

This charming café is located in the heart of Cologne’s historic center. It offers a range of traditional German pastries, coffee, and tea.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Dom St. Georg (Hotel Dom)

  • Address: Lüderichstr. 1, 50668 Köln
  • Price Range: €120 - €250 per night (depending on the season and type of room)

This hotel is located in a historic building that dates back to the 14th century. It offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, as well as a restaurant serving traditional German cuisine.

2. Hotel am Dom (Hotel am Dom)

  • Address: Domkloster 4, 50668 Köln
  • Price Range: €100 - €200 per night (depending on the season and type of room)

This hotel is situated in a quiet street just a short walk from Cologne Cathedral. It offers modern rooms with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

3. Hostel Koeln

  • Address: Königstr. 39-41, 50668 Köln
  • Price Range: €20 - €50 per night (depending on the season and type of room)

This hostel is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. It offers dorm rooms and private rooms with shared or en-suite bathrooms.

Transportation

1. Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)

  • Address: Bergamasco, 51147 Köln
  • Phone Number: +49 2205-4950

The Cologne Bonn Airport is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. It offers flights to destinations throughout Europe and can be reached by taxi, bus, or train.

2. Köln Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)

  • Address: Bahnhofsvorplatz 1, 50668 Köln
  • Phone Number: +49 2205-4950

The main station is the largest and most important railway hub in Cologne. It offers connections to cities throughout Germany and Europe.

3. Cologne City Bus

  • Phone Number: +49 222-50850

The city bus system is an affordable and efficient way to get around Cologne. You can buy a ticket at any newsstand or online before your journey.

Tips and Essentials

1. Language

  • The official language of Germany is German, but many people in the service industry speak English.
  • Learn basic phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Auf Wiedersehen” (goodbye) to show respect for the local culture.

2. Currency

  • The official currency of Germany is the euro (€).
  • You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs using a debit/credit card with an international chip.

3. Tipping Culture

  • Tipping in Cologne is generally around 5-10% for good service.
  • For bars and restaurants, round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave small change (€1-2) on the table as a thank-you for the server’s attention.

4. Safety

  • Cologne is generally a safe city, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure when out and about.

More Information

For more information on traveling to Cologne, Germany, consider the following resources:

  • Official Tourist Board Website: www.koeln.de
  • Köln Tourismus: +49 2205-4950
  • Travel Guides and Apps: Lonely Planet, Google Maps