Cologne in one day

You only have one day to discover the Cathedral City on the Rhine and to immerse yourself in Cologne’s zest for life? We have some suggestions that will allow you to discover the most important and interesting sides of the city and at the end of the day to be able to say in your best impression of the local dialect, "Hey Kölle, do bes en Jeföhl!" (“Hey Cologne, you’re a feeling!”).

Impressive landmark

The city tour begins at the city’s landmark – the Cologne Cathedral. At almost 160 metres high, it towers over the houses and acts as an orientation point for tourists and locals alike. Join one of the Cathedral tours that takes place several times a day, or climb the 509 steps to the top of the tower, passing by the powerful church bell, called “Dicker Pitter” in the Cologne dialect, and enjoy the extensive view over the city and the Rhine.

Cologne’s zest for life

Right next to the Cathedral is the historic centre of the city with its old, colourful houses that take you back to a time long gone. Meet Tünnes und Schäl, two figures that represent the original Kölsch inhabitants, and marvel at the historic town hall and tower. For a breather with a bit of oomph, head to one of the many breweries like Peter’s Brauhaus or the traditional Früh am Dom where you can try some typical Cologne dishes such as “Himmel un Aed” or “Halve Hahn”.

A portion of culture

Art is on the agenda for the afternoon – and in Cologne there is plenty on offer. Visit the modern art exhibition at the Ludwig Museum or the permanent exhibition of art from the Middle Ages right up to the Impressionist period in the Wallraf-Richartz Museum. You can gain an insight into the city’s omnipresent Roman past at the Roman-Germanic Museum. If sweet things are more up your street, head down to the Chocolate Museum at the Rheinauhafen.

Coffee break

If you’re craving coffee by this time, make for Café Reichard for a wonderful view of the Cathedral along with a piece of cake. This traditional coffee house with its authentic atmosphere has been around for over 150 years directly on the Cathedral square. If you’d rather go shopping, you can shop till you drop on Hohe Straße, Schildergasse, Mittelstraße and Ehrenstraße.

Nightlife

Following an eventful day, while away the evening hours in one of the city’s traditional breweries or dive headfirst into Cologne’s nightlife on Zülpicher Straße or around Friesenplatz.

City Map: Your Walk