Things you should not miss on a weekend in Cologne

Things you should not misson a weekend

in Cologne

Photo by: Jannik Nitz / CC BY

ATTRACTIONS & CULTURE

The Gothic Cathedral not only is the city’s distinctive feature but also Germany’s most visited attraction. Due to the building’s impressive Gothic architecture, the shrine of the Three Wise Men, the outstanding stained-glass windows and the many other important works of art, UNESCO declared Cologne Cathedral a World Heritage Site in 1996.

More info: http://www.cologne-tourism.com/attractions-culture/cologne-cathedral.html

Cologne Cathedral

Cologne’s old town

Cologne’s Old Town has a distinctive historical charm. Visitors are drawn by its rustic narrow alleyways lined with traditional old houses. Innumerable breweries, pubs and restaurants invite passersby to linger. Here you can enjoy a draft Kölsch beer or try Cologne’s typical Halver Hahn sandwich.

More info: https://www.cologne-tourism.com/see-experience/poi/cologne-old-town/

Photo by: Michael Dernbach / CC BY

Photo by: Tobias Franz / CC BY

ATTRACTIONS & CULTURE

Cologne’s highly diversified museum scene offers something for every taste.

For example the chocolate museum next to the CSA Summit location:Or the Romano-Germanic museum next to the Cathedral if you are into Roman culture and medieval CologneOr even the Cologne City Museum which gives an insight into Cologne's political, economic and cultural history

Here you find a list of all museums in Cologne

Museums

The Rheinauhafen district

The newly designed Rheinauhafen waterfront complex is an attractive district of Cologne. The waterfront district features a mix of modern residential and office buildings interspersed with many cafés, restaurants, and galleries. And visitors with a passion for architecture and culture will also find points of interest in the Rheinauhafen.

More info: http://www.cologne-tourism.com/attractions-culture/rheinauhafen-district.html

Photo by: Kate Hopkins / CC BY

Photo by: Robert Brands / CC BY-ND

ATTRACTIONS & CULTURE

You can find green lungs everywhere in the city. They are ideal open spaces for recreation and walks.

For example the Flora/Botanical Garden is the oldest and well-established green area located close to the left Rhine banks and next to the Cologne Zoo

Parks in Cologne

The Rheinpark

Or the Rheinpark. These 40 hectares of parkland stretch along the river Rhine. This oasis is ideal for relaxation and home to the “Cologne Rhine Cable Car” Kölner Rhein-Seilbahn, which offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the Rhine for everyone.

More on parks in Cologne

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Photo by: elya / CC BY-SA

ATTRACTIONS & CULTURE

KölnTriangle Panorama – the public visitor platform atop the roof of the KölnTriangle, at a height of 100 metres, affords a breathtaking view of the city of Cologne, the Rhine and its bridges, and the surrounding area. But the Panorama visitor platform not only offers spectacular views, it also appeals to all the senses: Feel the wind wafting across the city’s rooftops, listen to the muffled sounds of the pulsating metropolis on the River Rhine, and let the vastness of it all do its magic – enjoy!

Cologne Triangle Tower

Shopping

Cologne is one of the most popular cities for shopping. The most popular shopping streets are Schildergasse and HoheStraße close to the Cathedral. Those who like trendy boutiques should make a detour to nearby Ehrenstraße. The glamour of many luxury brands adds its lustre to Mittelstraße. There is also a wealth of shopping opportunities in the arcades in the city centre and along the Ring.

Photo by: Lars Steffen / CC BY-SA

Photo by: Erich Ferdinand / CC BY

EATING IN COLOGNE

Those who have been to Cologne know that the metropolis not only boasts the Cathedral and numerous museums. There is much more: an exciting nightlife, outstanding restaurants, relaxed cafés, and the typical "kölsche" brewery taverns. Beyond, Cologne is home to a large number of international speciality and gourmet restaurants as well as wine bars. Here is a list of the different options you have.

As you are probably staying in the art�otel or in one of the other hotels nearby you should try the Chino Latino, located in the art�otel. The chino Latino is a multi award winning modern Pan-Asian cuisine restaurant with a Latin cocktail bar.

Chino Latino

Früh

You should not miss out on one of the “kölsche” brewery taverns, though, like the Früh where you will get to enjoy typical “kölsch” food and beer.

Photo by: A. T. Nissinen / CC BY

Photo by: cerbifc / CC BY

EATING IN COLOGNE

Since you are staying near the Südstadt it is worth checking out the café/restaurant ecco which offers a wide range of delicious meals including vegetarian and vegan food.

Don�t miss out on their brunch.. it is famous!

Ecco

Fette Kuh

For meat/burger lovers the “Fette Kuh” is a must!

EATING IN COLOGNE

Salon Schmitz: Spread over three historic row houses, the Schmitz empire is your one-stop for excellent food and drink. From the casual bistro to excellent seasonal meals in the restaurant to the takeaway deli, you'll find something you like at Schmitz almost any time of day. Wash it all down with the house-brand Kölsch . Address: Aachener Strasse 28, www.salonschmitz.com

Bei Oma Kleinmann: Named for its long-time owner, who was still cooking almost to her last day at age 95 in 2009, this perennially booked, grafitti-covered restaurant serves oodles of schnitzel, made either with pork or veal and paired with homemade sauces and sides. Pull up a seat at the small wooden tables for a classic Cologne night out. Address: Zülpicher Str. 9, www.beiomakleinmann.de

Osman 30: The setting alone of this made-to-impress restaurant on the 30th floor of the KölnTurm is spectacular, but fortunately the Mediterranean food can hold its own with the views. Cap your meal with libations served in the wine salon with its stylish white leather armchairs. Reservations essential. Address: Im Mediapark 8 (tram 12, 15 stop Christophstraße).

Some other restaurants that are worth a visit are:

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