16 recommended sightseeing spots in the fascinating city of Cologne

Cologne is located in the western part of Germany and is the fourth largest city in Germany after Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. Here are 16 recommended tourist spots to visit when you go to Cologne.

When you think of the main tourist spot in Cologne, you probably think of Cologne Cathedral, which is registered as a World Heritage Site. However, Cologne is also a city of art with over 30 museums and over 100 art galleries, and there are many other attractive tourist spots.

1. Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral, located in the center of Cologne, is registered as a World Heritage Site and is the main tourist spot that is the symbol of Cologne, boasting the world's largest Gothic architecture. The most distinctive feature is its size! It is 157 meters high, so even if you try to take a commemorative photo up close, the whole image will not fit in the photo.

Another feature of Cologne Cathedral is that it took 632 years to build. Compared to the Sagrada Familia in Spain, which is currently under construction and is scheduled to take 144 years to build, you can see how long the construction period of Cologne Cathedral is. Since it took 632 years to build, the interior decorations are very detailed and worth seeing.

When you enter Cologne Cathedral, you will be overwhelmed by the size of the interior. The large stained glass and Bavarian windows are famous for their designs that are rarely seen in other churches, and the beauty and grandeur of the decorations are truly overwhelming. Cologne Cathedral is also lit up after sunset, so if you see it at night, you can experience a different charm from during the day. In that case, we recommend that you enjoy the overall view of Cologne Cathedral lit up from a distance, rather than viewing it from up close.

2. Cologne Cathedral Treasure Museum

When visiting Cologne Cathedral, we also recommend visiting the "Cologne Cathedral Treasury." The treasury is located in an underground exhibition area, with an entrance on the left side of the cathedral's main façade. Here, you can see donations from the 10th century, the legacies and mementos of past archbishops, and treasures and documents used in the cathedral's ceremonies and rituals, all displayed up close.

Among the exhibits are valuable artifacts from around the 4th century, making it a particularly recommended sightseeing spot for those interested in the stunning gold craftsmanship of the Magi after visiting Cologne Cathedral. Please note that you need to purchase a ticket to enter the treasury. Why not take a look at the dazzling golden luxurious swords, crowns, and staffs, and admire the precious exhibits that you won't see in your daily life?

3. Cologne Cathedral Tower

Another sightseeing spot you should visit along with Cologne Cathedral is the Cologne Cathedral Tower. This tower, which is the south tower of Cologne Cathedral, stands at a height of 157 meters, and you can climb up to around 100 meters via a spiral staircase. The staircase consists of a total of 533 steps, making it particularly recommended for those who are confident in their physical stamina.

Once you reach the top of the spiral staircase, you'll find an observation gallery where you can enjoy a 360-degree view, and the scenery is truly breathtaking. You can gaze at the cathedral's large roof and the Rhine River, and the fatigue from climbing the stairs will melt away.

Additionally, the area above the observation gallery is surrounded by a mesh, so you can feel secure. Please note that the spiral staircase is not very wide, so be sure to ascend and descend without spreading out. It’s also important to share the space with others since you may encounter people coming from the opposite direction. There are resting areas along the way with a large bell clock, so take your time and be careful to climb safely while taking breaks if needed.

4. Hohenzollern Bridge

In front of Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollern Bridge, which spans the Rhine River, is a popular tourist spot in Cologne, serving as both a railway bridge and a pedestrian bridge.

The most notable feature of this bridge is the "love locks". There is a tradition that if couples attach a padlock with their names written on it to the bridge, their happiness will continue. As a result, many couples and newlyweds visit the bridge, making it famous for the personalized padlocks they leave behind. The 409-meter-long Hohenzollern Bridge's fences are nearly covered with these padlocks, attracting tourists who come to see them. You can purchase padlocks at nearby gift shops, so there’s no need to bring one with you.

Another feature of the Hohenzollern Bridge is that it provides a great view of the entire Cologne Cathedral. Due to its immense size, the cathedral can be hard to see in its entirety from close up, but from this slightly more distant vantage point on the Hohenzollern Bridge, the full structure is easily visible. Especially at night, when the cathedral is illuminated, it is highly recommended to view it from this bridge.

5. Chocolate Museum

Along the Rhine River, there is a ship-shaped building that exudes a sweet aroma. This is called the Chocolate Museum, a facility where visitors can learn about chocolate, tour the factory, and even taste chocolate, making it an enjoyable spot for both children and adults.

Inside, visitors can first learn about the history and production methods of chocolate. The explanations are given in a way that even small children can understand, so you can grasp the content without knowing English or German. After that, you move on to the factory tour. Watching the liquid chocolate flow into molds will make you crave chocolate immediately.

Next, you’ll visit a gigantic chocolate fountain that stands 3 meters tall, where real chocolate flows, allowing you to dip wafers and enjoy it. Additionally, on the upper floor, you can experience making your own chocolate with your favorite toppings, so be sure to stop by. The Chocolate Museum also features a café and shop with a wide range of chocolate-based menus, so take advantage of those as well.

6. Romano-Germanic Museum

The Roman-German Museum is a popular tourist spot in Cologne where you can learn about the time when Cologne was a colony of the Roman Empire. It mainly displays artifacts from ancient Rome, including tombstones and Roman glass, and it is the most visited museum in Germany.

One highlight of the museum is the Roman-era residence excavated in 1941, dating back to the 2nd century. Particularly famous is the "Mosaic of Dionysus," depicted on the dining room floor. This mosaic, which illustrates myths related to Bacchus, the god of wine, is in excellent condition and is a major attraction of the Roman-German Museum.

The Roman-German Museum is located just south of Cologne Cathedral, within walking distance. Why not consider visiting both the Cologne Cathedral and the Roman-German Museum on the same day?

*As of September 2024, the museum is closed for renovation. Please check the official website for the latest information.*

7. Museum Ludwig

The Ludwig Museum was established in 1976 and is a museum that collects modern art based on works donated by the Ludwig couple. It houses numerous paintings by famous artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. The museum displays works of abstract painting, surrealism, and pop art, and is said to be the largest museum in Europe with a collection of Picasso's works.

The exterior of the Ludwig Museum, along with its spacious and bright interior, gives the impression of a modern art museum, allowing visitors to appreciate the artworks in an atmosphere different from everyday life. Like the Roman-German Museum, it is conveniently located near Cologne Cathedral and the nearest station, which enhances its accessibility. This ease of access is one of the attractions of the Ludwig Museum.

8. Wallraf-Richartz Museum

The Wallraf-Richartz Museum, located about a 10-minute walk from Cologne Cathedral, is a tourist spot where you can admire works by many famous artists, including Rubens, Rembrandt, Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, and Munch.

The main attraction is its collection of religious paintings from the Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic periods. In the Gothic section, you can find works by Stefan Lochner, who also has pieces displayed in Cologne Cathedral. The Baroque section features works by Rubens and Rembrandt, while the museum also showcases pieces by French Impressionists such as Renoir and Monet, as well as works by Post-Impressionist Van Gogh.

Despite being a museum where you can view works by renowned artists all at once, it is not very crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy the art at their own pace. Additionally, special exhibitions are held in the basement seasonally, so it is recommended to check the website in advance for updates.

9. Farina House Perfume Museum

Did you know that the origin of Eau de Cologne is actually in Cologne, Germany? In 1709, Johann Maria Farina, a perfumer who immigrated from Italy, sold the first Eau de Cologne, which he named "Kölnisch Wasser" (Cologne Water) after the city where he lived at the time. This marked the beginning of the world's perfumes.

Today, the Farina House Perfume Museum is located at the site where Eau de Cologne was first produced, making it a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can learn about the history, manufacturing methods, and scents of perfume, as well as purchase various types of fragrances. However, note that access to the museum is only available through guided tours, so it is advisable to make a reservation in advance.

The museum is conveniently located about a 5-minute walk from Cologne Central Station, making it easy to visit alongside other shopping or activities.

10. Cologne Zoo

Established in 1860, the Cologne Zoo is the third oldest zoo in Germany. The expansive grounds cover approximately 20 hectares and feature the largest variety of animals in Germany, with over 500 species gathered from oceans and continents around the world.

One of the most popular attractions is the "Elephant Park," which boasts the largest elephant enclosure in Northern Europe. Visitors can see many elephants in an area so vast that the elephants may appear small by comparison. This setting allows for a glimpse of elephants living as if they were in their natural habitat.

The Cologne Zoo has plenty of signage throughout the grounds, so visitors need not worry about getting lost. Additionally, most of the exhibits are indoors, making it a great option regardless of the weather. You can also access the aquarium located on the premises with your Cologne Zoo ticket, so be sure to stop by.

11. Drachenburg Castle

Drachenburg Castle, located on the slopes of Drachenfels Mountain at an elevation of approximately 320 meters, was built in 1882 by Baron Stephan von Sarter, a banker who amassed great wealth. The castle was damaged during World War II but has been restored since then, allowing visitors to experience a very clean and modern atmosphere inside.

The exterior is styled like a French château, while the interior is surrounded by intricately carved wooden furniture and lavish murals. Photography is permitted inside Drachenburg Castle, allowing guests to capture these scenes as memories. However, please note that flash photography is not allowed. From the castle's garden, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the Rhine River.

To access Drachenburg Castle, the recommended method is the Drachenfels Bahn (Drachenfels Railway), a cogwheel train. You can enjoy the scenery of Drachenfels Mountain from the train windows, making the journey itself a delightful experience.

12. Columba Museum (Archdiocese of Cologne Museum of St. Columba's Church)

Founded in 1853 by the Christian Art Society, the Museum of Columba was reconstructed in 2007 to incorporate the Church of St. Columba into the Archdiocese of Cologne. The design was handled by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor. In 1973, Roman, Gothic, and medieval relics were discovered beneath the Church of St. Columba, making it a groundbreaking museum that preserves and displays these artifacts.

At the Museum of Columba, you can admire a diverse range of works from various genres and eras, including around 2,000 years of Christian art, medieval treasures, and contemporary art. The "Open Brickwork" design by Zumthor allows natural light to flow beautifully into the dimly lit interior, creating a sacred atmosphere for appreciating the artworks.

Although the Museum of Columba was rebuilt in 2007, Zumthor designed it so that the exterior would not appear too modern. As a result, the building blends harmoniously with the medieval European ambiance of the historic city of Cologne.

The Museum of Columba is located about an 8-minute walk from Cologne Cathedral. There are many other museums and galleries in the area, so you might consider taking your time to explore and enjoy the art scene.

13. Schnütgen Museum

Often overlooked in Cologne, which is home to many museums and galleries, the Schnütgen Museum is an attractive tourist destination that exhibits valuable Christian artworks from the medieval period. With over 2,000 items on display, including wooden and stone sculptures, manuscripts, and pieces made of gold and ivory, this museum offers a diverse range of artistic genres to enjoy.

Among the highlights of the Schnütgen Museum are the "Bust of the Parlor," the "Cross of St. George" from the 11th century, and the "Comb of St. Heribert." All of these pieces are displayed at eye level, making them very accessible for viewing in detail. Additionally, the stained glass windows lined along the walls of St. Cecilia’s Church inside the museum are also worth a look. Furthermore, the largest exhibition space in the Schnütgen Museum boasts a history of over 1,000 years, allowing visitors to enjoy its historic atmosphere.

The Schnütgen Museum also offers audio guide devices for rental, which can enhance your understanding of the artworks. Guided tours are available as well, so those interested should check the schedule on the museum's website in advance.

14. Cologne Museum of Applied Arts

Established in 1888, the Museum of Applied Arts in Cologne showcases artworks from the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods to the modern era. The exhibits primarily feature furniture, ceramics, accessories, and textiles, but also include works by goldsmiths, jewelers, and photographers, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide range of genres.

One of the highlights is the "Product Design Section," where you can see functional and historically significant household items, including radios from the Soviet era, early Tiffany glassware, retro vacuum cleaners, and televisions.

Additionally, timelines displaying significant world events that occurred during the periods when the items were created are also provided, allowing visitors to learn about the connection between art and history. The Museum of Applied Arts features a café and a gift shop, making it possible to take a break or purchase souvenirs. Please note that the museum is closed on Mondays.

15. Cologne Museum of East Asian Art

In Cologne, there is a museum where you can enjoy not only medieval European art but also Asian paintings, ceramics, and folding screen art. That museum is the Museum of East Asian Art. Established in 1913, it was Germany's first museum dedicated to East Asian art. Initially, most of the exhibited works were Japanese art, but over time, artworks from Korea and China were added, making it an important museum for East Asian art in Europe.

One of the features of the Museum of East Asian Art is the frequent rotation of exhibits. It also showcases Japanese ukiyo-e prints, allowing visitors to learn about history, making it a recommended destination.

Additionally, the museum was designed by the Japanese architect Kunio Maekawa. The building itself is worth appreciating, especially the courtyard, which is styled like a Japanese garden, so be sure to take a look.

16. Alter Markt Square

Alter Markt Square is the central square of Cologne, a vibrant tourist spot where café culture thrives. True to its name, which means "Old Market," this area once hosted a massive medieval marketplace.

Today, a market is held every day, and various events, including puppet shows, are organized, making it a popular destination for families. The highlight of the year is the Christmas market held in December, featuring beautiful illuminations, delicious food stalls, and even an ice skating rink. Visitors to Cologne in December should definitely experience this grand celebration. Additionally, during the warmer months, café terraces line the square, and outdoor festivals are held, making it an excellent place to visit.

Surrounding Alter Markt Square are the City Hall and St. Martin's Church, and it is conveniently located near Cologne Cathedral, allowing for easy sightseeing. There are also many restaurants and eateries in the area, making it a great spot to drop by for a visit, whether for sightseeing or dining.

◎Summary of recommended sightseeing spots in Cologne

Here are 16 attractive tourist spots in Cologne that go beyond just the cathedral. Cologne is a historic city filled with famous museums and art galleries, making it a perfect destination for those who love the atmosphere of medieval Europe. It's also surprising to note that the city is well-known for its perfume and chocolate. When visiting Cologne, be sure to use these tourist spots as a reference to plan your itinerary.

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16 recommended sightseeing spots in the fascinating city of Cologne