Cologne (Köln) is a lovely ancient city with a rich history, the perfect size for a short getaway. Though the city was bombed heavily in World War II, many of its architectural marvels survive, including the beautiful Gothic cathedral. This itinerary includes the historic highlights of the city and adds a day trip to Aachen, the charming and well-preserved capital of the emperor Charlemagne, but there are also plenty of modern attractions, shopping, and, of course, beer! I went in the fall and had the perfect weather, but I would also recommend going in December for the Christmas markets!
Depending on when you arrive, you may want to see the cathedral on your first day. If you don't have the energy for this on arrival day, save it for day 3, and instead enjoy a leisurely walk around the Old City (Altstadt), join a free walking tour in German or English, or try a glass of Kolsch (the local beer) on the riverside.
You can take a taxi or the S-Bahn to the center of Cologne, about a 15 minute ride.
- Here you will find info about the free walking tour.
This itinerary is suitable for most travelers, and is light on physical exertion, though there are a few optional activities that are a little more strenuous. Additional prices included out and back train tickets to Aachen, which are around €80 total depending on the time of day, and entry tickets to Cologne Cathedral and several other museums in Cologne. Remember to check all opening times, as they change seasonally and for holidays and special events.
Cologne was founded in the first century as a major outpost for the Roman legions. Its original name traces back to the Latin word for "colony." It later became an important cultural and trading center due to its important position on the Rhine, and was the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire for centuries.
Begun in the 13th century, this church is an absolute stunner and a must-see for history lovers. If you're feeling adventurous, you can pay a small fee and climb one of the towers for a true feel of the building and the entire city. This is the tallest cathedral in the world, so be sure to admire the glorious spires whether or not you climb them!
Please note that you should keep your knees and shoulders covered to enter the church.
There is a fee to enter the church, with reduced price fare available for students and kids. You can buy tickets in advance or at the ticket office.
If you have enough energy after the Cathedral, walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, an arched rail and pedestrian bridge crossing the Rhine, to see the city lit up at night. You'll be able to see the towering cathedral and many of the Romanesque churches illuminated, and also admire the estimated half a million love padlocks along the bridge.
Aachen is nestled right on the border between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherland. Due to its proximity to hot springs, it's been a spa town since ancient times. Like Cologne, the city has ancient roots, and it became the capital of the Carolingian dynasty during the reign of Charlemagne. It was the coronation site of the Holy Roman Emperors for centuries, and many famous figures are buried there (including Charlemagne, though his tomb has been lost). The city retains much of its medieval charm. Even for non-history lovers, it's a wonderful place to spend the day.
Take the train from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Aachen Hauptbahhof. The train ride takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on whether you catch an express or local train, and Aachen is pretty walkable once you arrive. Most days there are at least two trains every hour. Booking tickets in advance will ensure you get the fare and trip you want, but waiting to book until you're at the station will provide more flexibility.
- Tickets can be bought online or at the station.
Aachen Cathedral is truly a jewel box. Begun at the end of the 8th century, its form and decoration are heavily influenced by Italian art and architecture of earlier centuries. Construction continued over several centuries, leading to a conglomeration of styles. The mosaics and stained glass windows are breathtaking. Fortunately, the cathedral survived the Second World War relatively unscathed.
Please note that the Cathedral has more limited hours on Sundays due to religious services.
Admission to the cathedral is free, but guided tours are required if you wish to see the Choir Hall and the royal throne. Tours are available in English, German, French, Dutch, Italian, and Spanish. Remember to book in advance.
If you're interested in manuscripts, reliquaries, or other medieval artifacts, you can visit the Cathedral Treasury for a small fee (there is a separate entrance). Because of the ongoing importance of Aachen throughout the Middle Ages, the collection is truly impressive and worth a visit for those who are interested.
Walk through the historic streets and lose yourself in history.
Grab lunch or a snack in the Market square in Aachen under the shadow of the Rathaus, the medieval town hall that still hosts the mayor's office. The building was built over the ruins of the former imperial palace, and part of the old palace was included in the Granus Tower, which you can still see. After lunch, you can visit many historic parts of the Rathaus for a small fee. The Granus Tower is closed to visitors, unfortunately.
Be sure to take a walk after lunch to get a feel for the city. You can see the Ponttor, a medieval city gate that is still very impressive, and if you have extra time and energy, you can take a short hike to the nearby Lousberg Hill, about a 25 minute walk from the north of Market Square. You'll find a lovely view of Aachen.
Today is your chance to see everything Cologne has on offer! Below are listed several options for museums and churches in the Altstadt area, and there are plenty of other things to see and explore while in Cologne. The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays. There are also many options for relaxing boat tours on the Rhine, beer tours, and shopping areas. I would certainly recommend trying at least one local Kolsch if you like beer!
The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays.
For fans of modern and contemporary art, this museum is a real treat. It has an impressive collection of works by Picasso and the Russian Avant-Garde, as well as rooms dedicated to Pop Art and German Expressionism, among others. Tickets can be booked in advance.
The Romano-Germanic Museum is the major history museum for the Cologne area and features many artifacts and maps from prehistory through the Middle Ages. It is built on the site of some Roman ruins that have been left in situ for study and exploration, including a well-preserved floor mosaic. This is a very interesting choice for those interested in history and the intersection of the Roman and German cultures.
In case you haven't gotten enough medieval architecture, you can visit any of Cologne's 12 Romanesque Churches: St. Andreas; St. Aposteln; St. Cecilia; St. Georg; St. Gereon; St. Kunibert; St. Maria; St. Maria Lyskirchen; Great St. Martin; St. Pantaleon; St. Severin; and St. Ursula. Built between the 6th and 13th centuries, they encapsulate Cologne's important cultural position in Antiquity and the Middle Ages. They're all located in the Altstadt area, though you likely won't have time to visit them all. St. Cecilia now hosts a museum of Medieval art, and Great St. Martin is perhaps the most impressive.
There are also several Romanesque churches outside the historic city center. St. Peter's dates to the early 16th century, and its beautifully plain interior holds a painting by Rubens, who was baptised there.
For fans of design and decorative arts. This museum has everything from shoes, jewelry, and furniture to interior design and poster art. There is a small ticket fee, with reduced price options for students and kids.
If you have time before your flight, be sure to get a final coffee and breakfast in your local Veedel, and maybe visit one last medieval church before heading to the airport. Goodbye!
Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home
Cologne (Köln) is a lovely ancient city with a rich history, the perfect size for a short getaway. Though the city was bombed heavily in World War II, many of its architectural marvels survive, including the beautiful Gothic cathedral. This itinerary includes the historic highlights of the city and adds a day trip to Aachen, the charming and well-preserved capital of the emperor Charlemagne, but there are also plenty of modern attractions, shopping, and, of course, beer! I went in the fall and had the perfect weather, but I would also recommend going in December for the Christmas markets!
Depending on when you arrive, you may want to see the cathedral on your first day. If you don't have the energy for this on arrival day, save it for day 3, and instead enjoy a leisurely walk around the Old City (Altstadt), join a free walking tour in German or English, or try a glass of Kolsch (the local beer) on the riverside.
You can take a taxi or the S-Bahn to the center of Cologne, about a 15 minute ride.
- Here you will find info about the free walking tour.
This itinerary is suitable for most travelers, and is light on physical exertion, though there are a few optional activities that are a little more strenuous. Additional prices included out and back train tickets to Aachen, which are around €80 total depending on the time of day, and entry tickets to Cologne Cathedral and several other museums in Cologne. Remember to check all opening times, as they change seasonally and for holidays and special events.
Cologne was founded in the first century as a major outpost for the Roman legions. Its original name traces back to the Latin word for "colony." It later became an important cultural and trading center due to its important position on the Rhine, and was the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire for centuries.
Begun in the 13th century, this church is an absolute stunner and a must-see for history lovers. If you're feeling adventurous, you can pay a small fee and climb one of the towers for a true feel of the building and the entire city. This is the tallest cathedral in the world, so be sure to admire the glorious spires whether or not you climb them!
Please note that you should keep your knees and shoulders covered to enter the church.
There is a fee to enter the church, with reduced price fare available for students and kids. You can buy tickets in advance or at the ticket office.
If you have enough energy after the Cathedral, walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, an arched rail and pedestrian bridge crossing the Rhine, to see the city lit up at night. You'll be able to see the towering cathedral and many of the Romanesque churches illuminated, and also admire the estimated half a million love padlocks along the bridge.
Aachen is nestled right on the border between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherland. Due to its proximity to hot springs, it's been a spa town since ancient times. Like Cologne, the city has ancient roots, and it became the capital of the Carolingian dynasty during the reign of Charlemagne. It was the coronation site of the Holy Roman Emperors for centuries, and many famous figures are buried there (including Charlemagne, though his tomb has been lost). The city retains much of its medieval charm. Even for non-history lovers, it's a wonderful place to spend the day.
Take the train from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Aachen Hauptbahhof. The train ride takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on whether you catch an express or local train, and Aachen is pretty walkable once you arrive. Most days there are at least two trains every hour. Booking tickets in advance will ensure you get the fare and trip you want, but waiting to book until you're at the station will provide more flexibility.
- Tickets can be bought online or at the station.
Aachen Cathedral is truly a jewel box. Begun at the end of the 8th century, its form and decoration are heavily influenced by Italian art and architecture of earlier centuries. Construction continued over several centuries, leading to a conglomeration of styles. The mosaics and stained glass windows are breathtaking. Fortunately, the cathedral survived the Second World War relatively unscathed.
Please note that the Cathedral has more limited hours on Sundays due to religious services.
Admission to the cathedral is free, but guided tours are required if you wish to see the Choir Hall and the royal throne. Tours are available in English, German, French, Dutch, Italian, and Spanish. Remember to book in advance.
If you're interested in manuscripts, reliquaries, or other medieval artifacts, you can visit the Cathedral Treasury for a small fee (there is a separate entrance). Because of the ongoing importance of Aachen throughout the Middle Ages, the collection is truly impressive and worth a visit for those who are interested.
Walk through the historic streets and lose yourself in history.
Grab lunch or a snack in the Market square in Aachen under the shadow of the Rathaus, the medieval town hall that still hosts the mayor's office. The building was built over the ruins of the former imperial palace, and part of the old palace was included in the Granus Tower, which you can still see. After lunch, you can visit many historic parts of the Rathaus for a small fee. The Granus Tower is closed to visitors, unfortunately.
Be sure to take a walk after lunch to get a feel for the city. You can see the Ponttor, a medieval city gate that is still very impressive, and if you have extra time and energy, you can take a short hike to the nearby Lousberg Hill, about a 25 minute walk from the north of Market Square. You'll find a lovely view of Aachen.
Today is your chance to see everything Cologne has on offer! Below are listed several options for museums and churches in the Altstadt area, and there are plenty of other things to see and explore while in Cologne. The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays. There are also many options for relaxing boat tours on the Rhine, beer tours, and shopping areas. I would certainly recommend trying at least one local Kolsch if you like beer!
The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays.
For fans of modern and contemporary art, this museum is a real treat. It has an impressive collection of works by Picasso and the Russian Avant-Garde, as well as rooms dedicated to Pop Art and German Expressionism, among others. Tickets can be booked in advance.
The Romano-Germanic Museum is the major history museum for the Cologne area and features many artifacts and maps from prehistory through the Middle Ages. It is built on the site of some Roman ruins that have been left in situ for study and exploration, including a well-preserved floor mosaic. This is a very interesting choice for those interested in history and the intersection of the Roman and German cultures.
In case you haven't gotten enough medieval architecture, you can visit any of Cologne's 12 Romanesque Churches: St. Andreas; St. Aposteln; St. Cecilia; St. Georg; St. Gereon; St. Kunibert; St. Maria; St. Maria Lyskirchen; Great St. Martin; St. Pantaleon; St. Severin; and St. Ursula. Built between the 6th and 13th centuries, they encapsulate Cologne's important cultural position in Antiquity and the Middle Ages. They're all located in the Altstadt area, though you likely won't have time to visit them all. St. Cecilia now hosts a museum of Medieval art, and Great St. Martin is perhaps the most impressive.
There are also several Romanesque churches outside the historic city center. St. Peter's dates to the early 16th century, and its beautifully plain interior holds a painting by Rubens, who was baptised there.
For fans of design and decorative arts. This museum has everything from shoes, jewelry, and furniture to interior design and poster art. There is a small ticket fee, with reduced price options for students and kids.
If you have time before your flight, be sure to get a final coffee and breakfast in your local Veedel, and maybe visit one last medieval church before heading to the airport. Goodbye!
Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home
itinerary by Hannah Fritschner
Cologne (Köln) is a lovely ancient city with a rich history, the perfect size for a short getaway. Though the city was bombed heavily in World War II, many of its architectural marvels survive, including the beautiful Gothic cathedral. This itinerary includes the historic highlights of the city and adds a day trip to Aachen, the charming and well-preserved capital of the emperor Charlemagne, but there are also plenty of modern attractions, shopping, and, of course, beer! I went in the fall and had the perfect weather, but I would also recommend going in December for the Christmas markets!
Depending on when you arrive, you may want to see the cathedral on your first day. If you don't have the energy for this on arrival day, save it for day 3, and instead enjoy a leisurely walk around the Old City (Altstadt), join a free walking tour in German or English, or try a glass of Kolsch (the local beer) on the riverside.
You can take a taxi or the S-Bahn to the center of Cologne, about a 15 minute ride.
- Here you will find info about the free walking tour.
This itinerary is suitable for most travelers, and is light on physical exertion, though there are a few optional activities that are a little more strenuous. Additional prices included out and back train tickets to Aachen, which are around €80 total depending on the time of day, and entry tickets to Cologne Cathedral and several other museums in Cologne. Remember to check all opening times, as they change seasonally and for holidays and special events.
Cologne was founded in the first century as a major outpost for the Roman legions. Its original name traces back to the Latin word for "colony." It later became an important cultural and trading center due to its important position on the Rhine, and was the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire for centuries.
Begun in the 13th century, this church is an absolute stunner and a must-see for history lovers. If you're feeling adventurous, you can pay a small fee and climb one of the towers for a true feel of the building and the entire city. This is the tallest cathedral in the world, so be sure to admire the glorious spires whether or not you climb them!
Please note that you should keep your knees and shoulders covered to enter the church.
There is a fee to enter the church, with reduced price fare available for students and kids. You can buy tickets in advance or at the ticket office.
If you have enough energy after the Cathedral, walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, an arched rail and pedestrian bridge crossing the Rhine, to see the city lit up at night. You'll be able to see the towering cathedral and many of the Romanesque churches illuminated, and also admire the estimated half a million love padlocks along the bridge.
Aachen is nestled right on the border between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherland. Due to its proximity to hot springs, it's been a spa town since ancient times. Like Cologne, the city has ancient roots, and it became the capital of the Carolingian dynasty during the reign of Charlemagne. It was the coronation site of the Holy Roman Emperors for centuries, and many famous figures are buried there (including Charlemagne, though his tomb has been lost). The city retains much of its medieval charm. Even for non-history lovers, it's a wonderful place to spend the day.
Take the train from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Aachen Hauptbahhof. The train ride takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on whether you catch an express or local train, and Aachen is pretty walkable once you arrive. Most days there are at least two trains every hour. Booking tickets in advance will ensure you get the fare and trip you want, but waiting to book until you're at the station will provide more flexibility.
- Tickets can be bought online or at the station.
Aachen Cathedral is truly a jewel box. Begun at the end of the 8th century, its form and decoration are heavily influenced by Italian art and architecture of earlier centuries. Construction continued over several centuries, leading to a conglomeration of styles. The mosaics and stained glass windows are breathtaking. Fortunately, the cathedral survived the Second World War relatively unscathed.
Please note that the Cathedral has more limited hours on Sundays due to religious services.
Admission to the cathedral is free, but guided tours are required if you wish to see the Choir Hall and the royal throne. Tours are available in English, German, French, Dutch, Italian, and Spanish. Remember to book in advance.
If you're interested in manuscripts, reliquaries, or other medieval artifacts, you can visit the Cathedral Treasury for a small fee (there is a separate entrance). Because of the ongoing importance of Aachen throughout the Middle Ages, the collection is truly impressive and worth a visit for those who are interested.
Walk through the historic streets and lose yourself in history.
Grab lunch or a snack in the Market square in Aachen under the shadow of the Rathaus, the medieval town hall that still hosts the mayor's office. The building was built over the ruins of the former imperial palace, and part of the old palace was included in the Granus Tower, which you can still see. After lunch, you can visit many historic parts of the Rathaus for a small fee. The Granus Tower is closed to visitors, unfortunately.
Be sure to take a walk after lunch to get a feel for the city. You can see the Ponttor, a medieval city gate that is still very impressive, and if you have extra time and energy, you can take a short hike to the nearby Lousberg Hill, about a 25 minute walk from the north of Market Square. You'll find a lovely view of Aachen.
Today is your chance to see everything Cologne has on offer! Below are listed several options for museums and churches in the Altstadt area, and there are plenty of other things to see and explore while in Cologne. The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays. There are also many options for relaxing boat tours on the Rhine, beer tours, and shopping areas. I would certainly recommend trying at least one local Kolsch if you like beer!
The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays.
For fans of modern and contemporary art, this museum is a real treat. It has an impressive collection of works by Picasso and the Russian Avant-Garde, as well as rooms dedicated to Pop Art and German Expressionism, among others. Tickets can be booked in advance.
The Romano-Germanic Museum is the major history museum for the Cologne area and features many artifacts and maps from prehistory through the Middle Ages. It is built on the site of some Roman ruins that have been left in situ for study and exploration, including a well-preserved floor mosaic. This is a very interesting choice for those interested in history and the intersection of the Roman and German cultures.
In case you haven't gotten enough medieval architecture, you can visit any of Cologne's 12 Romanesque Churches: St. Andreas; St. Aposteln; St. Cecilia; St. Georg; St. Gereon; St. Kunibert; St. Maria; St. Maria Lyskirchen; Great St. Martin; St. Pantaleon; St. Severin; and St. Ursula. Built between the 6th and 13th centuries, they encapsulate Cologne's important cultural position in Antiquity and the Middle Ages. They're all located in the Altstadt area, though you likely won't have time to visit them all. St. Cecilia now hosts a museum of Medieval art, and Great St. Martin is perhaps the most impressive.
There are also several Romanesque churches outside the historic city center. St. Peter's dates to the early 16th century, and its beautifully plain interior holds a painting by Rubens, who was baptised there.
For fans of design and decorative arts. This museum has everything from shoes, jewelry, and furniture to interior design and poster art. There is a small ticket fee, with reduced price options for students and kids.
If you have time before your flight, be sure to get a final coffee and breakfast in your local Veedel, and maybe visit one last medieval church before heading to the airport. Goodbye!
Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home
Cologne (Köln) is a lovely ancient city with a rich history, the perfect size for a short getaway. Though the city was bombed heavily in World War II, many of its architectural marvels survive, including the beautiful Gothic cathedral. This itinerary includes the historic highlights of the city and adds a day trip to Aachen, the charming and well-preserved capital of the emperor Charlemagne, but there are also plenty of modern attractions, shopping, and, of course, beer! I went in the fall and had the perfect weather, but I would also recommend going in December for the Christmas markets!
Depending on when you arrive, you may want to see the cathedral on your first day. If you don't have the energy for this on arrival day, save it for day 3, and instead enjoy a leisurely walk around the Old City (Altstadt), join a free walking tour in German or English, or try a glass of Kolsch (the local beer) on the riverside.
You can take a taxi or the S-Bahn to the center of Cologne, about a 15 minute ride.
- Here you will find info about the free walking tour.
This itinerary is suitable for most travelers, and is light on physical exertion, though there are a few optional activities that are a little more strenuous. Additional prices included out and back train tickets to Aachen, which are around €80 total depending on the time of day, and entry tickets to Cologne Cathedral and several other museums in Cologne. Remember to check all opening times, as they change seasonally and for holidays and special events.
Cologne was founded in the first century as a major outpost for the Roman legions. Its original name traces back to the Latin word for "colony." It later became an important cultural and trading center due to its important position on the Rhine, and was the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire for centuries.
Begun in the 13th century, this church is an absolute stunner and a must-see for history lovers. If you're feeling adventurous, you can pay a small fee and climb one of the towers for a true feel of the building and the entire city. This is the tallest cathedral in the world, so be sure to admire the glorious spires whether or not you climb them!
Please note that you should keep your knees and shoulders covered to enter the church.
There is a fee to enter the church, with reduced price fare available for students and kids. You can buy tickets in advance or at the ticket office.
If you have enough energy after the Cathedral, walk across the Hohenzollern Bridge, an arched rail and pedestrian bridge crossing the Rhine, to see the city lit up at night. You'll be able to see the towering cathedral and many of the Romanesque churches illuminated, and also admire the estimated half a million love padlocks along the bridge.
Aachen is nestled right on the border between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherland. Due to its proximity to hot springs, it's been a spa town since ancient times. Like Cologne, the city has ancient roots, and it became the capital of the Carolingian dynasty during the reign of Charlemagne. It was the coronation site of the Holy Roman Emperors for centuries, and many famous figures are buried there (including Charlemagne, though his tomb has been lost). The city retains much of its medieval charm. Even for non-history lovers, it's a wonderful place to spend the day.
Take the train from Köln Hauptbahnhof to Aachen Hauptbahhof. The train ride takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on whether you catch an express or local train, and Aachen is pretty walkable once you arrive. Most days there are at least two trains every hour. Booking tickets in advance will ensure you get the fare and trip you want, but waiting to book until you're at the station will provide more flexibility.
- Tickets can be bought online or at the station.
Aachen Cathedral is truly a jewel box. Begun at the end of the 8th century, its form and decoration are heavily influenced by Italian art and architecture of earlier centuries. Construction continued over several centuries, leading to a conglomeration of styles. The mosaics and stained glass windows are breathtaking. Fortunately, the cathedral survived the Second World War relatively unscathed.
Please note that the Cathedral has more limited hours on Sundays due to religious services.
Admission to the cathedral is free, but guided tours are required if you wish to see the Choir Hall and the royal throne. Tours are available in English, German, French, Dutch, Italian, and Spanish. Remember to book in advance.
If you're interested in manuscripts, reliquaries, or other medieval artifacts, you can visit the Cathedral Treasury for a small fee (there is a separate entrance). Because of the ongoing importance of Aachen throughout the Middle Ages, the collection is truly impressive and worth a visit for those who are interested.
Walk through the historic streets and lose yourself in history.
Grab lunch or a snack in the Market square in Aachen under the shadow of the Rathaus, the medieval town hall that still hosts the mayor's office. The building was built over the ruins of the former imperial palace, and part of the old palace was included in the Granus Tower, which you can still see. After lunch, you can visit many historic parts of the Rathaus for a small fee. The Granus Tower is closed to visitors, unfortunately.
Be sure to take a walk after lunch to get a feel for the city. You can see the Ponttor, a medieval city gate that is still very impressive, and if you have extra time and energy, you can take a short hike to the nearby Lousberg Hill, about a 25 minute walk from the north of Market Square. You'll find a lovely view of Aachen.
Today is your chance to see everything Cologne has on offer! Below are listed several options for museums and churches in the Altstadt area, and there are plenty of other things to see and explore while in Cologne. The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays. There are also many options for relaxing boat tours on the Rhine, beer tours, and shopping areas. I would certainly recommend trying at least one local Kolsch if you like beer!
The city is populated with small neighborhoods called Veedels, each with its own character and local shops and bars. Examples include AgnesViertel, Ehrenfeld, Nippes, Südstadt. Please note that some shops will be closed on Sundays.
For fans of modern and contemporary art, this museum is a real treat. It has an impressive collection of works by Picasso and the Russian Avant-Garde, as well as rooms dedicated to Pop Art and German Expressionism, among others. Tickets can be booked in advance.
The Romano-Germanic Museum is the major history museum for the Cologne area and features many artifacts and maps from prehistory through the Middle Ages. It is built on the site of some Roman ruins that have been left in situ for study and exploration, including a well-preserved floor mosaic. This is a very interesting choice for those interested in history and the intersection of the Roman and German cultures.
In case you haven't gotten enough medieval architecture, you can visit any of Cologne's 12 Romanesque Churches: St. Andreas; St. Aposteln; St. Cecilia; St. Georg; St. Gereon; St. Kunibert; St. Maria; St. Maria Lyskirchen; Great St. Martin; St. Pantaleon; St. Severin; and St. Ursula. Built between the 6th and 13th centuries, they encapsulate Cologne's important cultural position in Antiquity and the Middle Ages. They're all located in the Altstadt area, though you likely won't have time to visit them all. St. Cecilia now hosts a museum of Medieval art, and Great St. Martin is perhaps the most impressive.
There are also several Romanesque churches outside the historic city center. St. Peter's dates to the early 16th century, and its beautifully plain interior holds a painting by Rubens, who was baptised there.
For fans of design and decorative arts. This museum has everything from shoes, jewelry, and furniture to interior design and poster art. There is a small ticket fee, with reduced price options for students and kids.
If you have time before your flight, be sure to get a final coffee and breakfast in your local Veedel, and maybe visit one last medieval church before heading to the airport. Goodbye!
Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home
