Things to do in Cologne
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cologne has to offer
Historic Monuments
Iconic structures that shape Cologne's skyline and history.
Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral)
Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO site that dominates the city skyline.
Hohenzollern Bridge
Iconic railway bridge with panoramic river views and love locks.
Old Town (Altstadt) Cologne
Historic core with timber-framed houses, squares, and riverside walks.
Museums
Cologne's museums span from ancient archaeology to modern art.
Ludwig Museum (Museum Ludwig)
Renowned collection of modern art including Picasso and Pop pieces.
Cologne Roman-Germanic Museum
Archaeological treasure trove tracing Cologne's Roman past.
Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud
Old Master paintings housed in a historic setting.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites offering architecture, mosaics, and spiritual history.
St. Gereon's Basilica
Romanesque church with ancient origins and intricate mosaics.
Great St. Martin Church (Groß St. Martin)
Striking Romanesque church located in the heart of the Old Town.
St. Maria im Kapitol
Historic church known for its classical architecture and art.
National & Theme Parks
Nearby greens and thrill parks ideal for day trips.
Phantasialand (Brühl)
Award-winning theme park with immersive lands and rides.
Eifel National Park
Forested hills and scenic trails perfect for nature lovers.
Rheinpromenade (Rhine river promenade)
Scenic riverside greenspace ideal for a relaxing stroll.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts that reveal local life and flavor.
Old Town (Altstadt)
Historic heart with cozy cafés and charming streets.
Belgisches Viertel (Belgian Quarter)
Trendy area filled with bars, eateries, and boutiques.
Ehrenfeld
Creative district known for street art, music venues, and cafes.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the city without an admission fee.
Rheinufer promenade walk
Stroll along the Rhine with river and city views.
Old Town stroll
Wander the charming alleys, squares, and architecture.
View Köln Cathedral from outside
Admire the cathedral’s exterior from multiple vantage points.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional dishes and local Kölsch beer.
Früh am Dom
Historic brewery-restaurant offering Kölsch and hearty fare.
Gaffel am Dom
Classic brewery with local brews and regional dishes.
Päffgen am Dom
Traditional brewery in a cozy, historic setting.
Nightlife
Vibrant bars, clubs, and lively squares after dark.
Belgisches Viertel nightlife
Area filled with bars, lounges, and live music.
Old Town pubs
Historic lanes lined with Kölsch-tasting venues.
Zülpicher Straße / Friesenplatz area
Dynamic nightlife with a mix of venues and crowd.
Entertainment
Theatre, concerts, and family-friendly attractions.
Cologne Opera (Kölner Oper)
Elegant opera house offering grand productions.
Cologne Philharmonic Hall (Kölner Philharmonie)
Renowned concert hall with superb acoustics.
Odysseum
Interactive science and discovery center for interactive fun.
Sports
Sports culture and active ways to enjoy the city.
RheinEnergieStadion
Home stadium of 1. FC Köln with matchday energy and tours.
Cologne Marathon
Annual city race that runs along the riverside route.
Rheinside cycling along the promenade
Bike along the Rhine for scenic views and exercise.
Off the Track
Unconventional ways to discover Cologne beyond the usual paths.
Street Art Tour in Ehrenfeld
Explore vibrant murals and urban artworks with a guide.
Dom-Höfe architectural walk
Discover the hidden courtyards and contemporary architecture.
KölnTriangle SkyDeck
Take in city views from the observation deck above the media district.