Cologne (Köln in German) is nestled on the banks of the Rhine River in Western Germany and is 35 km southeast of Düsseldorf and 180 kilometers northwest of Frankfurt. Germany’s fourth largest city boasts an iconic skyline dominated by the towering Cologne Cathedral, beckoning travelers from around the world to explore its cobbled streets and savor its rich culture.
How to Get There
Germany’s train system Deutsche Bahn (DB) has an excellent network connecting all areas of the country and is pretty reliable. Depending on where you are starting from, you may need to transfer trains in larger centers, but we’ve always found it to be the best way to get around Europe.
Top Things to See in Cologne in Winter
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
No visit to Cologne is complete without visiting the awe-inspiring Cologne Cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts intricate architecture and soaring spires that pierce the skyline. You can ascend the cathedral’s towers for panoramic views of the city, the Rhine River, and the surrounding landscapes. The cathedral’s interior, adorned with stained glass windows and artistic treasures, serves as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship. The Cathedral is located right next to the train station so if you’re arriving by train, you can’t miss it. Upon exiting the station, you will be awed by the massive cathedral with its black coloring which is due to weathering and soot over the centuries. At the time of our visit (December 2023) we were able to enter the cathedral and although it’s world heritage site, it still operates as a church.
Saint Gereon’s Basilica
One of Cologne’s churches built in Romanesque style is Saint Gereon’s Basilica, which dates back to the 11thcentury. A 15-minute walk from the Cologne Cathedral, this basilica has unique architectural features including a dome. Inside, you’ll find a variety of medieval mosaics, murals, and precious ancient relics. We were the only ones inside on this particular morning so were able to spend as much time wandering around as we wanted.
Old Town (Altstadt)
Cologne’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful facades with a medieval flair which is where you’ll find tourists and locals alike. The Old Town is home to charming boutiques, traditional breweries, and traditional eateries where you can enjoy local faire. In the summer historic squares like Alter Markt and Heumarkt, offer street performers, and open-air cafes creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Cologne’s Christmas Market Magic
When the Christmas season descends upon the historic city of Cologne, a magical transformation takes place, and the heart of the city comes alive with the enchanting spirit of Christmas. Cologne has a variety of Christmas Markets, however the two we visited were very close to the Cathedral.
The largest is the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market set against the majestic backdrop of the iconic Cologne Cathedral. The towering spires of the cathedral, illuminated against the winter night, provide a stunning visual spectacle as you enter the market. The combination of Gothic architecture and festive lights creates a fairy-tale atmosphere that sets the stage for the holiday festivities. Sip on a mulled wine and watch the entertainment on the centre stage or wander through the market and witness skilled artisans at work or browse through the festively decorated stalls that offer an array of handcrafted treasures, from intricate ornaments and wooden toys to cozy knitwear and regional crafts.
The Cologne Christmas Market, or “Kölner Weihnachtsmarkt,” can be found in Old Town, between the Heumarkt and the Alter Markt where the air is filled with the scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and the sweet aroma of gingerbread cookies, creating a sensory experience that embodies the essence of Christmas.
Culinary Delights
Indulge your taste buds in the culinary delights that define the Cologne Christmas Market. Savor a cup of traditional Glühwein (mulled wine) as you meander through the stalls, or sample local specialties such as Reibekuchen (potato pancakes), Bratwurst, and Flammkuchen (thin-crust pizza). The market is a gastronomic journey through the flavors of the season, inviting you to embrace the warmth of festive treats.
Chocolate Museum Cologne
Situated in the Cologne quarter of Altstadt-Süd on the Rheinauhafen peninsula, visit the Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum) which is one of the city’s cultural treasures. Learn the five-thousand-year history of chocolate and during the Christmas season you can attend a 30-minute tasting session and taste your way through all stages of chocolate production.
Things to See in Summer
Rhine River Promenade
During the summer months you can stroll along the picturesque Rhine River Promenade, where the waterside ambiance merges seamlessly with the cityscape. Quaint cafes, lively bars, and cultural hotspots line the promenade, inviting visitors to unwind, savor a local Kölsch beer, and enjoy the scenic views of passing ships. The Hohenzollern Bridge, adorned with love locks, provides a captivating backdrop against the flowing river. This bridge is the most heavily used railway bridge in Germany and the only one not destroyed during WW2.
Ehrenfeld District
For those who wish for a taste of Cologne’s trendier side, head to the Ehrenfeld district. This bohemian neighborhood is a hub of creativity, featuring hip cafes, street art, and an eclectic mix of boutiques. Ehrenfeld is a testament to Cologne’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary flair.
Lively Arts and Culture Scene
Cologne boasts a dynamic arts and culture scene, with numerous museums and galleries waiting to be explored. Visit the Museum Ludwig, home to an impressive collection of modern art, immerse yourself in the vibrant street art that adorns the city’s walls, or attend a performance at the Cologne Opera House.
Cologne’s Carnival Spirit
If you find yourself in Cologne in the lead-up to Lent, we’re told not to miss the city’s exuberant Carnival celebrations. The streets come alive with colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and an infectious spirit of revelry that captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
More to see
As mentioned earlier, we love to explore and with Cologne’s narrow cobblestone streets, there was plenty to see. We ventured down narrow cobblestone streets wind through the historic Old Town, where colorful facades, lively squares, and cozy cafes beckon exploration. From the dynamic arts and cultural scene to the warm hospitality of its residents, Cologne invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of history, artistic expression, and contemporary allure, making it a must-visit destination in Germany.
There are many more interesting things to explore and experience; the above are merely some of our highlights.
How many days do you need to visit CologneCologne is a great city with its harmonious blend of historical grandeur and vibrant modernity. A comfortable visit to Cologne can be achieved in about 3 days assuming that you’re reasonably active as there are many things to see and do.