Location: Cologne
Top Things to do in Cologne
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What to do and see in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
There are 2,000 years of history in Cologne, and visitors here will find everything from Roman towers to Gothic churches to fine examples of modern architecture. Cologne has a variety of museums, too—check out the Museum of Applied Art, the Museum Ludwig and, if you have a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Museum. Be forewarned, though—the gift shop at the latter will utterly ruin your diet.
Restaurants in Cologne
1. Cologne Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21,825 reviews
This giant Gothic cathedral, which until its completion in 1880 had been under construction for over 500 years, is perhaps Germany's most famous religious structure and includes two huge towers that serve as the defining symbol of Cologne's skyline.
Reviewed By _rayscom - Long Buckby, United Kingdom
Jaw dropping cathedral.Wonderful to walk around.You can have an unhurried stroll and wonder at the skills involved in the conduction of this wonderful building.Not for the faint hearted is a trip up to the bell tower.Breathtaking in every sense of the word. Very busy in summer
2. Wallraf-Richartz Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 694 reviews
This impressive museum houses artwork covering every genre from the 13th century through the 19th century.
Reviewed By susanhG1104QY - Valencia, Spain
Exquisite collection of Medieval art, nice impressionist collection all with well written informative plaques in German and English. Highly recommend the Rembrandt special exhibition as well. We also enjoyed the museum cafe for lunch and would recommend.
3. Museum Ludwig
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,705 reviews
This art museum houses a diverse collection that includes everything from Dali to Warhol to one of the world's largest Picasso collections. Open Tuesday to Sunday (including public holidays) from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., every first Thursday of the month until 10 p.m.
Reviewed By Jan_from_Atlanta - Atlanta, United States
Located close to the train station and cathedral, the Ludwig holds a rich collection of modern and pop art, including one of the largest collections of Pablo Picasso works in the world. The museum is very pleasant and roomy but is not massive, which makes for a very enjoyable visit. Admission is 12 Euros. There is a restaurant as well but I would suggest take a very short walk to The Fruh (over 100 years old) for a nice German meal at reasonable prices.
4. Gross St. Martin
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 576 reviews
This famous Romanesque cathedral, re-opened in 1985 following extreme damage during World War II, takes second billing behind only the Dom as Cologne's most prominent religious structure.
5. NS Documentation Centre of the City of Cologne
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,378 reviews
This old Nazi prison, preserved in its original state, is a terrifying reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.
Reviewed By James188113 - Sydney, Australia
The Gestapo headquarters is well worth the visit. The holding cells, the history of the people who were held there and their writing on the walls is extremely moving. You could spend a good hour or more just in this section. All the exhibits in this area are in both German and English. Strange that this isn't followed on the other floors. Although for a small extra fee you can get the audio guide which even in the holding cell area provides extra information. The execution yard is also very powerful. The other floors are a bit more general on the rise of Hitler, the concentration camps and life in Germany at the time.
6. Saint Gereon's Basilica
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 235 reviews
One of Cologne's 12 churches built in Romenesque style, Saint Gereon's Basilica dates to the 11th century and has unique architectural features including a dome, an intricate floor mosaic of David and Goliath and the remains of Roman walls. Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. It is not possible to visit the church during Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
7. Koelner Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,106 reviews
This zoo has more animals than any other zoological park in Germany and boasts an aquarium and the world's largest elephant park in northern Europe. Open 365 days a year; in the summer hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Reviewed By RosaGudny - Reykjavik, Iceland
As far as zoos goes, this one is aminal friendly for the most parts. There is usually an indoor and an outdoor space. A lot of birds. There were plenty of exotic animals: elephants, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes bears and big cats like lions and a tiger. I was intrigued and amazed, being an environmentalist I was hesitant to go at first because I don’t have a positive image of zoos but this one is good, it surprised me. It took me 2 hours to take one walk around, and an extra hour at the aquarium.
8. Melaten-Friedhof
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 379 reviews
This urban cemetery offers an oasis of green and a glimpse into the city's storied history, art and personalities. Open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in the winter, with extended hours in summer and fall. For a detailed tour, you may hire a guide at your own expense.
Reviewed By TheRealGelatoGirl - Germany, null
...so serene and peaceful...incredibly nice sculptures everywhere, a lot of natural green...if you are looking for some peace and “zen”...this is the place to visit!
9. Rautenstrauch-Joest-Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 178 reviews
A rice storage hut and and a full Javanese gamelan greet you at this unique museum that aims to unite humanity across cultures and gives visitors an opportunity to explore their own prejudices and preconceived notions. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and the first Thursday of the month until 10 p.m.
10. Botanical Gardens Flora
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 790 reviews
Cacti and plant houses make up this garden, which dates from the 1800s, along the Rhine River. Gardens are open 8 a.m. until dusk daily. Plant houses are open October to March 10 a.m.-4 p.m., April to September 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Reviewed By madi_madi69 - Amsterdam, The Netherlands
great place to relax and to discover new species of plants or trees.I had a walk with my boyfriend and relaxed on the grass watching the clouds. There is a nice terrace also. I highly recommend it!
