Cologne, Germany: The best travel guide for you in 2025

Cologne, a historic and vibrant city, attracts visitors from all over the world with its spectacular Cologne Cathedral and rich cultural activities. Here is a detailed travel guide to help you fully prepare and enjoy your trip to Cologne.

Travel Preparation

1. Visas and Entry

• VISA REQUIREMENTS: Visitors from most countries require a Schengen visa. Please check if your nationality requires a visa and apply in advance.
• Application materials: Prepare your passport, itinerary, financial proof, travel insurance and confirmation of accommodation.
• Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport has at least six months of validity remaining at the time of entry.

2. Baggage Preparation

• Seasonal Clothing: Prepare clothing according to the travel season. In spring and fall, light jackets are recommended; in winter, warm clothing is required; in summer, light clothing can be worn.
• Rain gear: The weather in Germany is changeable, so it is recommended to bring a folding umbrella or a waterproof jacket in case of emergency.
• Comfortable shoes: Most of the main attractions in Cologne are suitable for walking tours, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

3. Currency and Payment

• Currency: The Euro (EUR) is used in Germany. It is advisable to exchange some cash before arrival, just in case.
• Credit card use: Credit cards are accepted in most stores and restaurants, but cash payments are still more common in smaller stores and markets.
• ATM withdrawals: There are many ATMs in the city for easy cash withdrawals.

4. Health and Insurance

• Travel insurance: Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover the risk of medical treatment, lost luggage and accidents.
• Vaccination: Consult your doctor if you need to be vaccinated according to your health condition, especially when traveling to remote areas.

5. Travel Planning

• Itinerary: Make a detailed itinerary in advance, including cities and places to visit, to ensure that you have enough time.
• Emergency contact information: Record the contact information of local hospitals, police stations, embassies and consulates in case of emergency.

6. Internet Communication

• Internet Preparation: It is recommended to make sure to prepare travel esim for your trip to Germany, PhoneSIMGo has esim packages designed for traveling tourists!

Highlights of the trip

1. Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

• Architecture: At 157 meters high, this Gothic building is the tallest church in Germany, with beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate sculptures.
• Visiting experience: Visitors can climb up to the tower for a beautiful view of the entire city of Cologne and the Rhine River. The religious artworks inside are also worth savoring.
• Historical significance: The church is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbolizes Cologne's religious and cultural history.

2. Rhine River Cruise

• Cruise options: Several cruise companies offer short and long excursions, where you can choose between lunch or dinner on the river and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the coast.
• Best time to go: Cruises are particularly popular during the summer months when you can enjoy a good time in the sun.
• Night Cruises: Night cruises offer a unique view of the city at night, especially with the lights of the cathedral.

3. Cologne Beer (Kölsch)

• Regional specialty: Cologne's specialty beer is refreshing, distinctive and usually served in taverns. Learning about the brewing process in Kölsch is also an interesting experience.
• Bar culture: Explore the local bars, taste different brands of Kolsch and immerse yourself in the local social life.
• Beerfest: The annual Cologne Oktoberfest is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and join in the festivities.

4. Cologne Old Town (Altstadt)

• Historic architecture: Stroll through the old alleys and admire medieval-style buildings such as St. Martin's Church and the Rathaus (Town Hall).
• Shopping & Gastronomy: The Old Town has many specialty stores and restaurants for souvenir shopping and sampling local cuisine.
• Cultural events: The Old Town often hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals to attract visitors.

5. Museum Ludwig

• Center for Modern Art: The museum is known for its extensive collection of modern art, featuring works by artists such as Picasso and Warhol.
• Special Exhibitions: Special exhibitions are held regularly and are a must-see for art lovers.
• Interactive Experience: The museum offers guided tours and interactive exhibitions for visitors of all ages.

6. Schokoladenmuseum (Chocolate Museum), Cologne

• Chocolate Making Process: Learn about the history and process of chocolate making and watch a live demonstration of chocolate making.
• Tasting experience: There is a chocolate tasting area in the museum where visitors can taste freshly made chocolate.
• Interactive activities: Suitable for families, the museum offers a variety of interactive activities where children can also have fun.

Mode of transportation

1. Public transportation

• Subway and light rail: Cologne's public transportation system is very convenient and covers the main areas of the city. You can buy one-way or day tickets to move around the city easily and quickly.
• Fare information: A one-way ticket costs around €2.80 and a day ticket around €6.50 and can be purchased at station ticket machines.
• Transportation card: The “KölnCard” can be purchased and offers unlimited discounts on public transportation and several attractions.

Bicycles

• Rental service: There are many bicycle rental locations throughout the city, so you can easily rent a bicycle and enjoy a scenic ride along the Rhine.
• Cycling paths: Cologne has a good system of cycling paths for all kinds of cyclists, especially along the river and in the parks.

3. Taxis and shared mobility

• Taxis: You can find them everywhere in the city. The starting price is about €3.50 and the charge per kilometer is about €1.50, which is suitable for short trips.
• Shared trips: Shared trips such as Uber are also popular in Cologne and are usually cheaper and more convenient than cabs.

4. Walking

• City Center Walking Tour: The main attractions in the center of Cologne are relatively concentrated, which makes it suitable for walking tours and enjoying the scenery along the way.
• Walking Maps: Walking maps can be downloaded from the internet to help you plan your trip better.

5. Long-distance trains

• Deutsche Bahn system: Cologne is an important transportation hub in Germany, and the Deutsche Bahn (DB) offers convenient long-distance train services connecting to other major cities such as Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin.
• How to buy tickets: Tickets can be purchased at station vending machines or on the official website, with discounts available for advance bookings.

6. Private car

• Driving: If you plan to visit the neighboring areas, driving is a good choice. However, you need to pay attention to the traffic rules in Germany.
• Parking information: Parking spaces are limited in the city center, so public parking lots are recommended and usually cost 2-4 euros per hour.

Food recommendations

1. Kölsch beer (Kölsch)

• Local specialties: Cologne's specialty beer is refreshing, distinctive and usually served in taverns.
• Bar culture: Explore the local bars, taste different brands of Kölsch and immerse yourself in the local social life.
• Drinking style: Kolsch is usually served in small glasses, and when you finish, the waiter will automatically refill your glass until you put it down.

2. Meat Sausage (Kölsche Wurst)

• Traditional snack: Cologne's unique sausage, usually served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes, is a local favorite.
• Recommended restaurant: You can try authentic Kölsche sausages in one of the traditional restaurants in the Old Town.

3. Desserts and pastries

• Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte): Germany's famous chocolate cake with cherries and whipped cream, sweet but not too sweet.
• Recommended Cafes: Enjoy freshly made cakes and desserts in local cafes.

4. Traditional German food

• Sauerkraut: Pickled cabbage, often served as a side dish with a variety of meats.
• German Stew (Eintopf): a heart-warming, rich stew, often made from meat, vegetables and spices.

5. International cuisine

• Diversified Dining: Cologne has a number of international restaurants offering Italian, Turkish and Asian cuisine for all tastes.
• Market food: In Cologne's markets you can try a variety of authentic snacks such as Turkish kebabs and street hot dogs.

6. Chocolate Museum Gourmet

• Chocolate products: The museum has a chocolate tasting area where visitors can try freshly made chocolate.
• Chocolate Workshop: Participate in the museum's chocolate making workshop and make your own chocolate.

Suggested itineraries

1. Day trip itinerary

• Morning: Starting at the Cologne Cathedral, visit the interior of the church and the towers for a panoramic view of the city.
• Noon: Taste authentic Kolsch beer and local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
• Afternoon: Visit Cologne's old town, stroll through the alleys and admire the historical buildings, and finally head to the Rhine River for a cruise through the city.

2. Two-day itinerary

• Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary and finish with dinner at a restaurant on the Rhine.
• Day 2: Visit the Ludwig Museum to see the modern art works, followed by a visit to the Chocolate Museum to learn about the chocolate making process and taste the delicious chocolates.

3. Cologne and neighboring cities tour

• Day 1: Visit Cologne Cathedral in the morning, then take the train to Bonn in the afternoon and visit Beethoven's house and Bonn University.
• Day 2: Travel to Düsseldorf, visit the Old Town and the Rhine River and enjoy local cuisine.

4. Cultural tour

• Day 1: Visit the Ludwig Museum to learn about modern art and explore the museum district in the afternoon.
• Day 2: Experience Cologne's art scene by attending a local cultural event such as a concert or exhibition.

5. Nature and outdoor excursions

• Day 1: Visit a forest park on the outskirts of Cologne, go hiking or biking and enjoy nature.
• Day 2: Visit the beautiful scenery of the Rhine River, have a picnic and relax.

6. Food tour

• Day 1: Take a food tour of Cologne, taste local specialties and drinks, and learn about the food culture.
• Day 2: Visit the Chocolate Museum, participate in a chocolate making workshop and try making chocolate yourself.

Introduction to the neighborhood of attractions

1. Around Cologne Cathedral

• Shopping Streets: There are many shopping streets near the Cathedral where you can find numerous brand name stores and small specialty stores.
• Restaurants & Cafes: In the vicinity of the Cathedral there are many restaurants and cafes, which are great places to rest and dine.

2. Rhine-side

• Trails & Parks: Along the Rhine there are beautiful trails and parks for walking or cycling and enjoying the natural beauty of the riverside.
• Cultural events: During the summer months, the riverside often hosts a variety of cultural events and music festivals that attract many visitors.

3. Cologne Old Town

• Historical sites: The Old Town is home to a number of historical sites and museums, suitable for delving into Cologne's history.
• Relaxation spots: Bars and cafes in the alleyways are great places to rest and socialize.

4. Around the Ludwig Museum

• Artistic atmosphere: the surrounding area has many art galleries and cultural centers for art lovers to explore.
• Gastronomic choices: There are several restaurants in the vicinity offering a great choice of cuisine.

5. Around the Chocolate Museum in Cologne

• Shopping area: There are many specialty stores near the museum where you can purchase local chocolates and souvenirs.
• Dining options: The museum has a café where visitors can take a break and enjoy drinks and snacks.

6. Parks and gardens in Cologne

• Flora und Botanischer Garten: offers a rich variety of plants and is ideal for families.
• City Parks: Several parks in the city are suitable for walks and picnics and are a great place to relax.

Recommended Accommodations

1. Luxury hotels

• Excelsior Hotel Ernst: Located in the city center, it offers a luxurious accommodation experience and high-quality service within walking distance of the main attractions.
• Hyatt Regency Köln: Located on the Rhine, offering spectacular river views and modern facilities.

2. Mid-range hotels

• NH Collection Köln Mediapark: modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and easy access to many restaurants and stores.
• Hotel Mondial am Dom Cologne: close to the cathedral, offering good value for money and comfortable accommodation.

3. Budget accommodation

• A&O Köln Dom: Suitable for travelers on a budget, offering clean and comfortable dormitories and private rooms in a great location.
• Meininger Hotel Köln: offers affordable accommodation for families and backpackers, close to public transportation.

Cultural background

1. Historical heritage

• Ancient Roman period: Dating back to 38 BC, Cologne was one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire and many monuments still exist, such as the ancient Roman walls and ruins.
• Medieval prosperity: Cologne became an important trading center during the Middle Ages, and many of its old buildings and churches still bear the marks of history.

2. Modern culture

• Art and Music: Cologne is an important cultural center in Germany with several museums and art galleries, such as the Ludwig Museum, which exhibits a wealth of modern art.
• Festivals: Cologne's Carnival (Karneval) attracts a large number of visitors and is full of laughter and colorful parades, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture.

3. Multiculturalism

• Immigrant background: Cologne's culture has been diversified by immigrants, combining customs and cuisines from all over the globe to create a unique city atmosphere.
• International events: Regular international events and festivals, such as international film festivals and cultural exhibitions, attract artists and visitors from all over the world.

4. Language and customs

• German as the main language: German is the main language in Cologne, and many locals can also speak English, especially in the tourist areas.
• Local Customs: Germans are generally more formal in social situations, and a handshake is a common greeting when meeting someone for the first time.

Local weather

1. Spring (March to May)

• Temperature: Temperatures usually range between 8°C and 20°C, warm and humid.
• Precipitation: Precipitation is more frequent in spring, so it is advisable to carry rain gear.
• Suitable Activities: Suitable for outdoor activities, parks and gardens are picturesque as flowers begin to bloom.

2. Summer (June to August)

• Temperature: Higher temperatures, usually between 15°C and 30°C, make it the best season to visit.
• Precipitation: Occasional brief thunderstorms and a more humid climate.
• Advisable activities: There are many music festivals and outdoor activities in the summer for enjoying the sun and good food.

3. Fall (September to November)

• Temperatures: Temperatures gradually drop, usually between 5°C and 20°C, and you can still enjoy warm weather in early fall.
• Precipitation: rainfall is more frequent in the fall, especially in November.
• Activities: Good for sampling local fall foods and attending harvest festivals.

4. Winter (December to February)

• Temperatures : Temperatures are low, generally between 0°C and 8°C, with frequent frosts, especially in January.
• Precipitation: There is not much snowfall in winter, but there can be rain and cloudy days.
• Suitable activities: Christmas markets are very popular in winter and visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere and traditional cuisine.

5. Climatic characteristics

• Humid climate: Cologne has a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons and an even distribution of precipitation.
• Temperature variations: There are large temperature differences in spring and fall, so it is recommended to wear layers of clothing to cope with the temperature changes.

6. Travel Tips

• Check the weather forecast: It is recommended to check the local weather forecast before traveling to rationalize clothing and activities.
• Flexible Arrangement: In case of inclement weather, consider adjusting your itinerary and opt for indoor activities such as museums and shopping centers.

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Travel Alerts for Germany in 2025

Travelers to Germany in 2025 need to be aware of potential travel alerts. Before traveling, be sure to review relevant safety advisories and alerts, especially in specific cities or regions. Be aware of local cultural practices and laws, and remain vigilant to ensure that your travel experience is smooth and enjoyable. Safety comes first and we wish you a memorable stay in Germany! For more details, check out the 2025 Travel Alert Guide to Germany

Frequently asked questions about traveling to Cologne

1. When is the best time to travel to Cologne?

• Answer: The best time to travel is during spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) when the weather is mild enough for sightseeing.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Cologne?

• Answer: Must-see attractions include the Cologne Cathedral, the Old Market, the Cologne Museum, the Rheinhessen and the Cologne Chocolate Museum.

3. How do I get from Cologne airport to the city center?

• Answer: You can choose to take the S-Bahn (City Express), a cab or the airport bus, with the S-Bahn being the most convenient option, taking about 15 minutes.

4. How does the public transportation system in Cologne work?

• Answer: Cologne's public transportation system includes the metro, light rail and buses. One-way, day or multi-day tickets can be purchased. It is recommended to use the KVB website or app to check schedules and routes.

5. What local cuisine do you recommend for dining in Cologne?

• Answer: We recommend trying Cologne beer (Kölsch), sauerkraut and traditional German sausages.

6. Where are the shopping areas in Cologne?

• Answer: The main shopping areas include the Schildergasse (Cologne shopping street) and the Hohe Straße (Hohe Straße), where high-end brands are concentrated.

7. How is the nightlife in Cologne?

• Answer: Cologne has a varied nightlife, especially in the old town and the youth area in the south, with many bars and clubs.

8. Are there any family-friendly activities in Cologne?

• Answer: Yes, family-friendly activities include the Cologne Zoo, the Chocolate Museum and Rhine River cruises.

9. How safe is Cologne?

• Answer: Cologne is generally a safe city, but visitors still need to be aware of the safety of their personal belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.

10. Is it easy to use a credit card in Cologne?

• Answer: Credit cards can be used in most stores, restaurants and hotels, but smaller stores and markets may prefer to accept cash. It is advisable to carry some cash with you in case of emergency.