Good for you, you’ve ended up in Cologne, Germany! Here’s a list of our 10 essential things to do as a first-time visitor in Cologne
The most welcoming city in the country has plenty to offer you… right? It can be hard to tell at first. If it’s your first time visiting Cologne, figuring out the best spots, eating the right food, and checking off the main sights can be a bit overwhelming. Cologne is a city you either visit for a day or fall in love with and stay forever, it can be hard to find the in-between.
Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with.
Some of these are obvious, some might be new to you but even if you’ve heard of them before, consider this your confirmation that they’re absolute must-dos. (And if you burn through this list too quickly, check out our other blog posts for second-time visitors and hidden gems.)
Quick side note: the number one thing you should really do is a Free Walking Tour with us because we’ll show you all of this and more.
Anyway, here we go!
The Kölner Dom – 10 essential things to do in Cologne
Pretty easy to start us off. It’s one of the most incredible buildings on the planet. How much do we really need to say? Locals visit it regularly just to hang out so you definitely should too.
Plan to spend a few hours in and around the cathedral. Climb the south tower for panoramic views (and a good workout), visit the crypt to explore its deeper history, and if you book in advance, try to join a tour through the cathedral’s upper decks and hidden passages. This will be number one on any list of 10 essential things to do in Cologne.
Drink a Kölsch at a local brewery
Leaving Cologne without seeing the Dom is a crime. Leaving without drinking a Kölsch? That’s practically illegal. These two experiences go hand in hand.
Stop into one of the many local Kölsch breweries like Päffgen, Früh, Gaffel, or Sion. Every one of them has its own vibe and variation of Kölsch beer. Sit down, get (politely) yelled at by your server, and enjoy the rhythm of local life—one 0.2L glass at a time.
Visit the EL-DE Haus – 10 essential things to do in Cologne
This former Gestapo headquarters turned memorial museum is one of the most powerful and sobering places in Cologne. While Cologne is a great city to focus on joy, visiting the EL-DE Haus offers an important, raw, and emotional look into life during Nazi Germany, with preserved prison cells and detailed exhibits.
It’s not a light stop, but it’s an important one, especially if you’re interested in World War II history or the stories of everyday people who lived through it.
Visit at least one of our Art Museums
We may be only the fourth biggest city in Germany, but Cologne punches way above its weight in the art world. Whether you’re into classical masterpieces or edgy contemporary installations, there’s a museum for you.
Check out the Museum Ludwig for world-class modern art and one of Europe’s best collections of Pop Art and Picasso. Or visit the Wallraf-Richartz Museum for something more traditional. Want something quirky? Try Kolumba, a serene and architecturally stunning museum run by the Archdiocese.
See the City from the Triangle
Across the river in Deutz, the KölnTriangle offers one of the best views of the city. Head up to the observation deck and take in a postcard-perfect panorama of the Dom, the old town, and the Rhine. Plus, then you don’t have to climb the 533 steps up the Cathedral to realize it’s hard to see the Cathedral when you’re on it…
Go at sunset for a golden glow, or try it at night when the city lights up and just don’t forget your camera. It’s worth the cheap ticket and the quick elevator.
Cruise the Rhein
You’ve probably walked by it, now get on it. A Rhine River cruise is an easy-going and beautiful way to experience the city. Short cruises offer views of Cologne’s skyline, bridges, and riverbanks. Longer rides can take you into wine country and through picturesque medieval towns. We recommend the shorter ride as this is a list of 10 essential things to do in Cologne afterall.
It’s a totally different vibe than walking plus, you can sip a Kölsch while you cruise (you can do that while walking too but sitting involves less hazards).
Visit the Belgian Quarter in the evening
When the sun sets, head to the Belgisches Viertel (Belgian Quarter). This is one of Cologne’s most beloved neighborhoods. Get there a little before 6 to shop around before the famous boutiques close and so you can get a table at any of the awesome restaurants.
Find a cozy wine bar, an indie cocktail spot, or an outdoor café on Brüsseler Platz and people-watch with the locals. The place has a buzzing bar scene to go with its Kiosk Culture. It’s where Cologne’s cool kids hang out. I wouldn’t know because cool kids don’t type “cool kids” while writing a blog post.
Walk Across the Hohenzollern Bridge – 10 essential things to do in Cologne
“It’s not just an overpass, it’s a bridge”- Spongebob. In Cologne, our bridge is iconic. Covered in love locks and offering amazing views of the Dom and the Rhine, the Hohenzollern Bridge is a must-walk for first-timers.
Cross over from the Dom side to the Triangle or do it the other way around. Cross off three things on this list quickly and either direction gives you great photo ops and a true feel of the city.
Eat at Kebabland while checking out Street art
Cologne has world-class döner kebabs and Kebapland in Ehrenfeld is the local legend. After grabbing one or two or a plate or more, wander through the streets of Ehrenfeld, our student and creative district packed with vibrant street art, murals, and graffiti walls (not to mention a bunch of other cool stuff to do).
You’ll find works from both local and international artists, and maybe even catch a live music set or pop-up event. Once you’re done, go back for another kebab.
Hangout in a Park
Cologne is a green city, and the locals love their parks. On a sunny day, grab a blanket, a few drinks, and some friends, and post up in Volksgarten, Rheinpark, or Stadtwald.
It’s a great way to relax, people-watch, and soak up the easygoing Cologne lifestyle. Bonus points if you bring a portable speaker and a barbecue!
Final tip: Cologne is more about vibe than checklist. These essential 10 things to do in Cologne will help you find your bearings, but don’t be afraid to follow your nose (or a friendly local’s advice). The city will take care of the rest. And when you’ve checked these off, come back for Pt. II.
Written by Mike Clarke, list enthusiast.
