Top Things to Do in Cologne

About the City

Cologne, Germany: A Buzzing City with a Hint of Eau de Cologne Cologne, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Germany, is a historical gem with a modern twist. Imagine stepping into a time machine where cobbled streets meet chic boutiques. Here, the majestic Cologne Cathedral stands tall, a Gothic masterpiece that offers breathtaking views and is visibly unmissable from almost every corner of the city. But it's not all ancient glory; Cologne's zest for life is reflected in its bustling beer halls, where the local Kölsch beer flows as freely as the Rhine River that courses through the city. Karneval season turns the city into an explosion of color and costumes, with locals and visitors alike swaying to the rhythm of the funky beats. Yet, for every patch of sunshine, there's a smidgen of rain. The said weather in Cologne can be capricious, swinging from bright skies to drizzly days in a heartbeat. Navigation can be quite the adventure too, with a public transport system that might leave newcomers scratching their heads. And oh, the mystifying local dialect, Kölsch, which is both the language and the drink of choice, might perplex the linguistic tourist. Wade through the whimsical alleyways, stumble upon quaint bookshops and art cafes, and let Cologne’s effervescent spirit tickle your senses. It's a city that wears its heart on its sleeve and its history in its streets, inviting you to revel in its quirky charm.

Things to Do in Cologne

Dig Into a Reibekuchen Rally

Food & Drink

Get ready to party pal, coz you’re about to taste the crispy, golden magic that is Reibekuchen! These delightful potato pancakes are Cologne's answer to hunger pangs and are usually served with a doll...

Catch & Release Fishing

Outdoors

Fishing in the heart of the city? You bet. Tackle some catch and release for a lazy afternoon. Don't forget your lucky fishing cap!

Unearth Treasures at the Cologne Flea Market

The Unexpected

Get ready to haggle like a local and score some unique finds at the flea markets scattered around Cologne. From vintage clothes to rare collectibles, you never know what treasures await!

Experience a Medieval Banquet

The Unexpected

Step back in time and feast like royalty! Indulge in a medieval banquet complete with jugglers, minstrels, and hearty fare. A knight to remember!

Join a Local Cooking Class

The Unexpected

Get your hands floured up and your cooking game on! Joining a local cooking class can give you the insider scoop on culinary secrets of traditional German cuisine.

Hunt for Unique Vinyls

The Unexpected

For the music aficionados, dive into the groovy world of vinyl records in Cologne's hip music shops. You'll find everything from classic rock to electronic beats!

Conquer the Cologne Cable Car

Outdoors

Float above the mighty Rhine! The Cologne Cable Car offers a lofty adventure with killer views – talk about a sidewalk in the sky, huh?

Paddle Power on the Rhine

Outdoors

Why walk when you can paddle? Seize the day with some stand-up paddleboarding on the mighty Rhine. Balancing act required, swimsuit recommended!

Get Lost in Grüngürtel

Outdoors

Put on your walking shoes and prep for some nature vibes. Take a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog around Cologne's green belt. Fresh air? Check. Scenic views? Double check!

Unwind with Outdoor Yoga

Outdoors

Grab your mat and get bendy with some outdoor yoga. Flexibility isn't a must, but a love for relaxation and inner peace is!

Get Your Schnitzel Fix

Food & Drink

You ain’t done Cologne if you ain't schnitzeled! This crumbly, tender, fried delight is the ultimate comfort food. Whether veal, pork, or chicken, each bite is a crisp journey through flavor town. Pro...

Gape at the Gothic Grandeur

Sights

Ready your peepers for some serious 'Woah' moments when you set eyes on the colossal Cologne Cathedral. This towering marvel is a masterpiece of gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site to...

Groove to the Beat of Street Performers

Sights

Bop along the Schildergasse and let the eclectic melodies of street musicians serenade you. It’s a free concert with a rotating cast of talented artists!

Catch the Vibes at Cologne’s Carnival

Sights

Grab your funkiest costume and dive headfirst into the lively Cologne Carnival! It's a 'fifth season' of frolics, with parades, balls, and streets brimming with music and merrymaking.

Marvel at Cologne’s Panoramic Skylines

Sights

Whether atop the KölnTriangle or by the riverside, scrap the postcards and capture your own breathtaking views of the city's skyline. Watch as the Cathedral spires pierce the sky!

Sip on the Local Brew at Brauhaus

Sights

Cheers to tradition at a cozy brauhaus! Tickle your taste buds with Kölsch, the beer only legal in Cologne, served in signature slender glasses called 'Stangen'.

Relish the Taste of Rheinischer Sauerbraten

Food & Drink

Ever wanted to try a meat dish that's been marinated for days in a tangy mix that includes vinegar and then slow-cooked to perfection? Look no further than Rheinischer Sauerbraten! This hearty meal wi...

Indulge in a Flammkuchen

Food & Drink

Who needs a pizza when you can have Flammkuchen, a deliciously thin and crispy German-style pizza? Topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, this bad boy is a palate pleaser you won't forget. It's...

Snack on a Tasty Mettbrötchen

Food & Drink

Get ready to sink your teeth into a raw deal that's actually a good one! Mettbrötchen is a raw pork sandwich, seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes onion, and it's a go-to snack for the brave at h...

Brew Your Own Beer Wizardry

The Unexpected

Get your brewski on! Dive into the frothy depths of beer making and become the beer wizard you always wished to be. Don your brewing cape, stir that malty concoction, and whisper the sacred beer chant...