Places to Visit in Cologne

Ehrenfeld offers a wide variety of bars, restaurant and shops to explore.  The area makes a nice alternative to the traditional old town and main shopping streets of the city centre.

Konigswinter can be found just a short trip from Bonn’s city centre.  The quaint area has pretty buildings to appreciate and a river promenade to explore which can also be an ideal place to pick up souvenirs.

Cologne Cathedral is a popular cultural attraction.  Building of the Cathedral was completed in 1880 and it has been Cologne’s most famous landmark for centuries.  As well as appreciating the architecture, there are artworks and relics housed in the treasure chamber.  Admission is free into the cathedral, but the tower and treasury have small entrance fees.

The Chocolate Museum opened in 1993 and has become hugely popular.  Situated on the former harbour the building is in the shape of a ships prow.  The exhibits depict chocolate’s 3000 year history and there are plenty of samples to enjoy along the way.

Eating Out in Cologne

Stanton Café on Schildergasse has a laid back atmosphere with friendly staff.  There is an extensive menu to choose from as well as daily specials.  The location makes it ideal to stop for a break from shopping.

La Vision offers wonderful views across cologne outside the cathedral.  It can be found at the top of the Hotel im Wasserturm.  With a Michelin Star the food and setting is excellent.

Alternatively for a more affordable meal Ouzerie Plaka is a superb Greek restaurant on Siegfried-Leopold Strasse which uses 100% fresh ingredients.  Restaurant Sasella is also excellent serving classic Italian cuisine in an old restored German post office.

Cologne Night Life

Subway is one of Cologne’s most popular night spots.  The club nights and concerts show off Germany’s best home talents.  Bla on Bornheimer Strasse is another spot to enjoy local bands.  It is a cosy bar with a down to earth atmosphere.

M20 is friendly bar with a relaxed atmosphere.  DJ’s provide great music and it can be found on Maastrichter Strasse.

Local Information

The central tourist office can be found opposite the cathedral.  The office provides many guide books of which many are free.  There is a new souvenir shop in the basement which is a must visit for souvenirs with retro and different gifts.

Further Afield From Cologne

Dusseldorf is definitely worth a visit having recently been voted the 5th best city in the world due to it’s standard of living.  There is plenty of culture and architecture to enjoy and as Germany’s fashion centre there are always bargains on offer, especially during sale season.

From the Airport

Trains run every 20 minutes from the train station near terminal 2 at the airport.  The journey takes just less than 20 minutes into the centre of Cologne.  Taxis also run from the airport but are much more expensive.