Cologne-travel-tips

Cologne Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips

Before You Go

• Learn some German: While many Cologners speak English, making an effort to learn basic German phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Bitte” (please) will be appreciated.
• Understand local customs: Cologne is a predominantly Catholic city; respect local traditions and holidays.

Public Behavior

• Be mindful of noise levels: Germans tend to value quiet spaces, especially in public areas like parks or streets.
• Keep public spaces tidy: Dispose of trash properly, and avoid littering in streets, alleys, or parks.

Dining Etiquette

• Respect traditional dining hours: Lunch is typically served from 11:30 AM to 2 PM, while dinner is between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM.
• Use utensils correctly: Forks are held in the left hand, knives in the right, with the sharp edge facing inward.

Cultural Sensitivity

• Respect local festivals and events: Cologne hosts numerous festivals throughout the year; be aware of scheduled events to avoid disruptions.
• Dress modestly for church visits: When visiting churches like the Kölner Dom or other historical sites, dress modestly as a sign of respect.

Additional Tips

• Validate your public transportation ticket: Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding buses, trams, or trains.
• Tipping culture: Round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants and bars.