Cologne Travel Guide

Kölner Dom -  Cologne's Kölner Dom, translated as Cologne Cathedral, is Germany's most visited landmark, hosting an average of 20,000 visitors each day. Kölner Dom acts as the seat of the Archbishop of Cologne, and is a revered monument of German Catholicism, treasured not only for its deep-rooted historic context, but also for its epic display of gothic architecture. The cathedral itself is surrounded by verdant gardens, and sprawling manicured lawns, the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, while basking in the glow of Germany's most beloved national icon.

Rheinauhafen- One of the most recognized districts in Cologne, the newly renovated Rheinahafen waterfront complex, is home to a host of restaurants, hotels, and retail offerings, all nestled against the bank of the Rhine River, minutes from downtown. Unique modern architecture defines the Rheinahafen, proudly displayed through a series of buildings, called the crane towers, which rise 60 meters to a sharp right angle, dangling over the water.

Grüngürtel Parks - Cologne is characterized by its abundant swaths of grassy parkland that encircle much of the city, providing tourists and locals alike with a variety of beautiful, and relaxing locales to host a picnic, go on a nature walk, or any number of outdoor activities. Spend an afternoon unwinding from a busy day of exploring Cologne's many attractions as you bask in the sun, breathing in the fresh air at any one of the city's ubiquitous parks.

St. Martin Church - Along with the Kölner Dom, St. Martin Church in Cologne, Germany, is a standout landmark of the city's skyline. Built on what was originally a Rhine River island, St. Martin's has been destroyed and rebuilt throughout history, taking on many design influences and variations each time. Since the 1970's the church has been restored to its former glory, and now hosts thousands of visitors a day, eager to discover the one-of-a-kind architecture, and tower overlooking the city.

Museum Ludwig - Museum Ludwig, located in the heart of Cologne's downtown, is a modern art museum that boasts one of the largest collections of Picasso's work in the world. The museum's focus is primarily on Surrealism, Pop Art, and Abstract Art, including works from Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Travelers of all backgrounds can find something of interest at the Museum Ludwig, as its epic collection of rare and influential works spans multiple generations of modernism, sure to engage even the most skeptic visitors.

St. Kunibert Church - Travelers interested in stained glass art should definitely make it a point to check out Cologne's St. Kunibert Church, as its sprawling upper choir windows are pristine examples of medieval era stained glass work, radiating rich color as the sun reflects through in the morning and afternoon. Like many historic monuments in Cologne, St. Kunibert Church has undergone significant revitalization in recent years to restore it to its original form.

Cologne Rhine River Cruise -  As mentioned in our guide to driving in Cologne, the city is split down the middle by the Rhine River, making this massive waterway an excellent route to discover all of Cologne's storied historic monuments. On a Rhine River Cruise, patrons will embark on a 3 hour boat trip, navigating the curves of the river as it snakes through Cologne, passing all the biggest attractions. Dinner will be served, buffet style, offering local culinary specialties, and a variety of wine and beer. Lean back, relax, and listen to the soothing sounds of the onboard DJ's ambient music, all while sipping craft beer, and basking in the surrounding sites!

Kolsch Beer Tasting - Germany is world renowned for its love of all things beer, with each region crafting unique specialty brews. In Cologne, they make Kolsch Beer, a special variety known for its straw-yellow hue, mild hoppiness, and mid-range alcohol content. Travelers with a discerning taste for beer shouldn't miss out on a Kolsch Beer Tasting Tour, where a local beer expert leads small groups to a number of popular breweries, tasting all the subtle notes and bold flavors encompassed in Cologne's regional specialty brew.

Cologne Bus Tour - As offered in many major cities spread throughout the world, a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Cologne is an excellent way to explore the city, and learn of its history. Ride atop an open-air, double decker bus, as it chauffeurs you from destination to destination, allowing you to get on or off at your own pace, to delve deeper into any attractions of interest. A bus tour of Cologne is the perfect way to rest your travel weary legs, soak up the sun, and see all that the city has to offer.

Walk Around Old Town - Desire a more physically active approach to guided tours? Then a guided walking tour of Cologne's historic Old Town is for you. Travelers who embark on a Old Town walking tour will be led to nearly all of Cologne's biggest attractions, from the Kolner Dom, to the Ludwig Museum, all while a skilled tour guide explains the ins and outs of each monument, its history, and cultural relevance.

Christmas Markets Tour - The German's celebrate Christmas like no other country; the sheer volume of festivities is something to see. In Cologne specifically, a multitude of Christmas Markets stake their claim in town squares and parks, all providing local fare, novelty gifts, and holiday charm. Run the entire Christmas Market gambit, when you reserve a spot on a Christmas Markets Tour, where a local guide leads you to all the most jovial and exciting markets spread throughout the city. Bathe in the aromas of fresh holiday deserts, craft beer, and rich local cuisine at any and all of these fabulous Christmas Markets.

Fall Weather in Cologne - During the autumn months, Cologne begins to bristle with frenetic energy, as the city gears up for its annual street carnival, with festivities kicking off on November 11th, and concluding on Ash Wednesday. Despite the colder weather, the excitement and energy of the approaching carnival is palpable. Even the shorter daylight hours, averaging only 63 per month, can't bring the Cologne's spirit down, as after dark, the city blocks are illuminated with decorative lights of all colors. Travel costs in Cologne are generally favorable during the Fall while tourist traffic nears its seasonal low. Taking a vacation to Cologne in the fall is an excellent plan; the city is vibrant, attractions are abundant, and prices are cheap.

Average Temperature: 40-50 Degrees F

Winter Weather in Cologne - Surprisingly enough, Cologne is busy during the winter months, not even the increasingly cold weather and gloomy skies can keep visitors and locals alike from joining in the many festivities throughout the city. Light snowfall is fairly common, providing a patina of holiday spirit to the cities unique architecture. Once again, travel costs are low and finding quality lodging, airfare and rental cars is exceedingly easy, especially when you rely on Auto Europe for all your travel needs.

Average Temperature: 30 Degrees F

Spring Weather in Cologne - A springtime vacation in Cologne comes as a smart alternative to summer travel, the weather is generally favorable, and tourist traffic is still mild. Sunshine hours in the Spring average around 145 per month. Prices on hotel bookings, airfare, and car rentals are usually much lower in the spring compared to the summer months. For those travelers eager to save some extra money, and still bask in the warm weather, soaking up some sunlight, aught to visit Cologne during the spring.

Average Temperature: 50 Degrees F