Situated on the banks of the Rhine, Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany. A lengthy and intriguing history has made the city what it is today: a charismatic, historically-rich centre of modern culture.
A magnificent ancient cathedral and a medieval marketplace sit comfortably alongside contemporary buildings and modern office blocks. Now a thriving hub of media, business and tourist activity, it is also famous for the perfume Eau de Cologne which was first made in Cologne in 1709.
A favourite destination among visitors is the charming Old Town, which was almost totally flattened during World War II. Despite being one of the most frequently bombed cities in Germany, Cologne has been carefully rebuilt with original buildings and stonework preserved where possible. An example of this would be in the historic centre, where the Alter Markt has been restored to its original state as well as the magnificent Cologne Cathedral.
Cologne is one of the most liberal cities in Germany and is revered for its status as a major cultural centre. It is also famous for its Winter Carnival, which takes place each February. With over 30 museums, endless galleries and an animated arts scene, there is plenty to see and do throughout the entire year. The Museum Schnütgen is home to a phenomenal collection of medieval art, displayed in a magnificent 11th-century Romanesque church. For something a little more modern take a trip to Museum für Angewandte Kunst (Museum of Applied Art) and marvel at the extensive collection of contemporary design pieces, from a retro vacuum cleaner to a Mies van der Rohe chair.
Cologne is a great place to practice your German, as the locals are known for being very friendly and engaging. If you don't have any German, don't worry as English is commonly spoken here too, especially amongst the younger people. All tours and information on the main attractions in the city are available in English as well.
Navigating the streets of Cologne is no problem thanks to a very efficient and cost effective transport network including trains, buses and trams. All ticket machines have an English language setting also. Another fun way to view the city is by renting a bike with rentals available from the northern side of Cologne's main train station.
Cologne
Where to stay in Cologne
Old Town Cologne
Known for its stunning cathedral, stunning river views, and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Old Town Cologne. Top attractions like Cologne Cathedral and Hohe Strasse are major draws. Catch the metro at Heumarkt U-Bahn or Neumarkt U-Bahn to see more of the city.
Innenstadt
Known for its stunning cathedral and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Innenstadt. Check out top attractions like Cologne Cathedral and Old Market, and jump on the metro at Heumarkt U-Bahn or Appellhofplatz Breite Strasse U-Bahn to see more of the city.
Altstadt-Nord
Known for its stunning cathedral and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Altstadt-Nord. Check out top attractions like Cologne Cathedral and National Socialist Documentation Center, and jump on the metro at Appellhofplatz Breite Strasse U-Bahn or Heumarkt U-Bahn to see more of the city.
Deutz
Museums, shopping, and river views highlight some notable features of Deutz. Make a stop by Cologne Triangle or LANXESS Arena while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Deutzer Freiheit U-Bahn or Deutz Koelnarena U-Bahn to get around town.
Lindenthal
Noted for its bars and lake views, there's plenty to explore in Lindenthal. Top attractions like RheinEnergieStadion and Melaten-Friedhof are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Duerener Strasse - Guertel U-Bahn or Wuellnerstrasse U-Bahn to see more of the city.
Porz
Porz is well-liked for its bars and golf courses. If you're hoping to get in some sightseeing, City Center Porz and Bergisches Land Nature Park are top spots, and you can jump on the metro at Porz Markt U-Bahn or Porz Steinstrasse U-Bahn to get around.
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Popular places to visit
Cologne Cathedral
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and golden sarcophagus of the three wise men in this magnificent cathedral.
LANXESS Arena
Catch an event at LANXESS Arena during your trip to Cologne. Amble around this culturally rich area's riverfront or experience its fascinating museums.
Chocolate Museum
Delve into the delectable history of chocolate and sample the confectionary as you find out about the different ways that it is produced around the world.
RheinEnergieStadion
Catch an event at RheinEnergieStadion during your trip to Cologne. Stroll along the riverfront in this culturally rich area, or check out its local chocolate shops.
Cologne Zoo
Visit Germany's largest collection of animals in one of the country's oldest zoological gardens.
Old Market
Cologne's marketplace during medieval times is now a hot spot for café culture and outdoor entertainment.
