What to do in Cologne

Nov 4, 2017
4 min read

Why I love Cologne?

It all goes back to 2015 when i had my first introduction to the city. I got out of the train station and wow! I mean it! I didn't have any idea that I'll be seeing one of the biggest cathedrals in the world. Gothic style, amazing architectural achievement and so much history. All in front of my eyes, I think i stop breathing for few seconds. I loved it then and after visiting the city for many times and getting to know it, i love it even more now. That's why i love to share with you, my favorite things to check out while in Cologne, hoping you'll love it as much as me.

My list:

(Walking tour order)

1. Cologne Cathedral / Kölner Dom

OK, obviously! But seriously is the first thing you need to see. You've never seen something so Gothically big. I'd suggest going around, seeing it from all angles and admire a bit. While walking around do pay attention to some historical moments on the info boards showing how much the city was destroyed during World War II. Do check out the fountain you'll meet at one of the sides of the cathedral, to me the prints at the bottom were quite peculiar. At the end get inside, the entrance is free and check out the amazing interior and read something about the history of the cathedral.

2. Merzenich Bakery

So i guess your're pretty hungry by now, so my favorite breakfast in Cologne is the Merzenich Bakery. It's just a minute away from the cathedral when you start walking towards the main shopping street. They have the most amazing traditional chocolate pretzels (OMG! DO NOT MISS TRYING THIS HAVEN FOOD). To be honest, I've tried a lot of stuff in this bakery and everything is very delicious and amazing, so whatever you choose will be a right choice. For me a heavenly chocolate pretzel and a cup of great coffee is a tradition whenever i visit Cologne, so i definitely recommend this place.

3. Kölntriangle

Cologne Panorama Tower is next on the list. From behind the cathedral, just walk across the bridge where you will have the chance to see millions of love locks, believe me there are so many of them (maybe if you're into that stuff even put one of your own). When you cross the bridge, take a second to stop and take a picture on the river with an amazing view of the cathedral and the city. After, just continue straight from the bridge, you should see the tall "triangle" skyscraper. The entrance is less than 10 Euro. When you get to the top, you will have the chance to see Cologne from above. I loved it.

4. River side walk & Rheinterrassen beach bar

After having a nice panoramic visual in your head, it's time to have a nice walk along the river Rhine. Take a few pictures, relax and just enjoy the view. You'll be walking along side a very important river for Germany and Europe and on your right side you'll have a nice park. On this walk you will be able to feel the true Cologne spirit. At the end of your walk there is a very nice beach bar / restaurant called "Rheinterrassen", which i would recommend visiting on a sunny day for a coffee or beer. You can relax for a bit from all the touristic drama and enjoying the view of the river and Cologne Cathedral lying on a sunny bad. For me, one of the best moments in the city.

5. Botanical Garden Flora

I only recommend this spot for people that love nature. It's a really nice spot to just walk around and checking out many interesting plants and having one more nice walk. If you're coming from the beach bar above, you need to cross the bridge to the side on the Cathedral.

6. Traditional Brewery Bar "Früh am Dom"

At this point, the tour continues by going back to the Cathedral. In only few minutes walk from the Kölner Dom you will find an amazing traditional German Brewery Restaurant "Früh am Dom". It's the right place to have an amazing German lunch and few glasses of the most famous Cologne beer. It's an experience, so i suggest you definitely visit.

7. Old Town & Shopping Street

Last stop of the day. After having an amazing lunch / dinner at the brewery just walk across the shopping street and you'll get to the Old Town. It's amazing. Gives you the feeling of how the city looked like before the WWII.

Extra tip: If you're too lazy for all the walking parts of the walking tour i suggested, just take a "Hop on, Hop off" bus next to the Cologne Cathedral. It's a nice ride, checking out the most important spots in Cologne and also listening to some of Cologne history.

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