Cologne hits you right in the face the moment you step off the train. That massive Gothic cathedral towers over everything, and you can’t help but crane your neck up like every other tourist with their mouth hanging open. But here’s the thing – there’s way more to this 2,000-year-old city than just one (admittedly incredible) church.
I’ve spent countless weekends wandering Cologne’s cobblestone streets, and honestly? It’s become one of my favorite German cities. Maybe it’s the laid-back vibe, or how locals will chat with you over a glass of Kölsch, or the fact that you can walk from Roman ruins to modern art galleries in about ten minutes. Whatever it is, Cologne has this knack for surprising you. If you’re wondering what to do in Cologne beyond the iconic cathedral, this guide walks you through everything you need – from local tips to unexpected highlights.
Must-see attractions in Cologne
Cologne Cathedral dominates the skyline
Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. The Cologne Cathedral isn’t just the city’s main attraction – it’s basically the reason most people come here in the first place. And yeah, it lives up to the hype.
This Gothic masterpiece took over 600 years to complete, which explains why it looks so ridiculously detailed. Every surface has some intricate carving or statue staring down at you. The twin spires stretch 157 meters into the sky, making it Germany’s second-tallest church.
Inside, you’ll find the Shrine of the Three Kings – supposedly containing the remains of the Biblical Magi. Whether you buy into that or not, the craftsmanship is stunning. The golden shrine sits behind the main altar, covered in precious stones and medieval artwork.
Pro tip: Skip the elevator and climb the 533 steps to the south tower. Your legs will hate you, but the views over the Rhine are worth every burning muscle.
Hohenzollern Bridge connects old and new
Walk five minutes from the cathedral and you’ll hit the Hohenzollern Bridge. This isn’t just any bridge – it’s become Cologne’s answer to Paris’s love lock bridges. Thousands of padlocks cover the railings, left by couples who think their relationship will last as long as the metal.
The bridge offers killer views back toward the cathedral, especially during golden hour. Plus, it’s one of the few spots where you can watch the massive freight trains rumble past while cruise ships glide down the Rhine below.
Dive into Cologne’s beer culture
Kölsch isn’t just beer, it’s a way of life
Forget everything you know about German beer. In Cologne, there’s only one brew that matters: Kölsch. This light, crisp beer comes in tiny 0.2-liter glasses called “Stange,” and locals will keep bringing you fresh ones until you place a coaster on top of your glass.
The whole Kölsch experience happens in traditional brewhouses called “Brauhäuser.” These aren’t your typical tourist traps – they’re neighborhood institutions where three generations of the same family might share a table on Sunday afternoon.
Peters Brauhaus near the cathedral serves excellent Kölsch alongside hearty German fare. The servers (called “Köbes”) wear blue aprons and have mastered the art of carrying twelve glasses at once. Don’t take their gruff attitude personally – it’s part of the charm.
Traditional brewhouses worth visiting
- Früh am Dom: Right next to the cathedral, perfect for first-timers
- Hanse-Brauerei: More locals, less tourists, authentic atmosphere
- Brauerei zur Malzmühle: Family-run since 1858, incredible schnitzel
- Gaffel am Dom: Modern take on traditional brewing
Explore beyond the tourist trail
Old Town reveals hidden gems
Cologne’s Altstadt (Old Town) stretches beyond the immediate cathedral area, and that’s where things get interesting. The Fischmarkt square, with its pastel-colored buildings and outdoor cafes, feels like something out of a fairy tale. Street musicians often set up here, and the whole area has this relaxed, almost Mediterranean vibe.
The Roman-Germanic Museum sits right on the cathedral square, but most people walk past without noticing. Inside, you’ll find incredible mosaics and artifacts from Cologne’s days as a Roman settlement called Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium. The Dionysus mosaic alone is worth the entrance fee.
Museums that actually matter
Cologne has over 40 museums, but you don’t need to see them all. The Chocolate Museum (Imhoff Museum) gets all the attention – and for good reason. You can watch chocolate being made, learn about cacao farming, and yes, there’s a chocolate fountain you can sample from.
But here’s a local secret: the Museum Ludwig houses one of Europe’s best modern art collections. Picasso, Warhol, Lichtenstein – they’re all here, and the building itself is a piece of 1980s architecture that somehow works.
The Fragrance Museum tells the story of Eau de Cologne, invented right here in 1709. Giovanni Farina’s original shop still operates on Obenmarschgasse, and you can buy the same formula that Napoleon supposedly used.
Rhine River activities and views
River cruises show a different perspective
The Rhine flows right through Cologne’s heart, and getting on the water changes your whole perspective of the city. Hour-long cruises run regularly from the cathedral pier, taking you past industrial ports, green parks, and residential neighborhoods you’d never see otherwise.
During summer, locals gather along the Rhine’s banks for impromptu picnics and barbecues. The Rheinpark on the eastern shore has wide lawns perfect for lounging, plus the cable car that connects to the Cologne Triangle observation deck.
Cross to Deutz for the best photos
Most visitors never make it across the river to Deutz, which is a shame because that’s where you get the money shots. The Cologne Triangle’s observation platform sits 103 meters above the Rhine, offering 360-degree views of the city.
But honestly? You don’t need to pay for the elevator. Just walk along the Deutz riverbank during sunset, and you’ll get those postcard-perfect shots of the cathedral silhouetted against the sky.
Practical tips for your visit
Getting around is surprisingly easy
Cologne’s public transport system covers everything you’ll want to see. A day pass costs around €8 and includes buses, trams, and the U-Bahn. The main train station sits right next to the cathedral, so you can literally start sightseeing the moment you arrive.
Most attractions cluster within walking distance of each other. From the cathedral to the Chocolate Museum takes maybe 15 minutes on foot, passing through the Old Town along the way.
When to visit makes a difference
Summer brings outdoor festivals and beer garden season, but also crowds and higher prices. I prefer late spring or early fall – the weather’s still pleasant, but you’re not fighting tour groups for every photo.
Christmas market season (late November through December) transforms the city into something magical, but expect serious crowds around the cathedral area.
Budget considerations
Cologne isn’t cheap, but it’s not Berlin expensive either. Museum entries typically run €6-12, while a meal at a traditional brewhouse costs €15-25. Many churches and parks are free to explore, and walking tours often operate on a tip-based system.
Day trip options from Cologne
Bonn offers political history
Germany’s former capital sits just 30 minutes south by train. The House of History tells the story of post-war Germany through interactive exhibits and original artifacts. Beethoven fans can visit his birthplace, now a museum dedicated to the composer’s life and work.
Düsseldorf brings fashion and art
An hour north, Düsseldorf feels like Cologne’s sophisticated older sibling. The Königsallee shopping district rivals Paris’s Champs-Élysées, while the old town packs more breweries per square meter than anywhere else in Germany.
Your Cologne adventure starts here
Cologne rewards curious travelers who look beyond the obvious attractions. Sure, start with the cathedral – everyone does, and they should. But then wander into a neighborhood brewhouse, climb up to a rooftop bar, or just sit by the Rhine and watch the river traffic go by.
This city has been welcoming visitors for 2,000 years, from Roman merchants to medieval pilgrims to modern backpackers. It knows how to show people a good time, whether you’re here for the history, the beer, or just a weekend escape from routine.
Pack comfortable walking shoes, bring your appetite for both food and culture, and prepare to fall for one of Germany’s most underrated cities.