Germany · City Guide
Cologne
Cologne is a vibrant and historic Rhineland city dominated by one of the world's great Gothic cathedrals, a beautiful old town rebuilt after wartime destruction, an excellent museum landscape, a famously convivial carnival culture and outstanding Kölsch beer culture that is entirely specific to the city. From the Cathedral and the Museum Ludwig to the Rhine promenades and the surrounding wine country of the Mosel, Cologne provides an excellent and characterful German city experience.
Elect's take
"Cologne has a warmth and a sociability that I find very appealing in a German city context. The cathedral is extraordinary, the Kölsch beer culture in the old town is genuinely enjoyable and the combination of world class art and good Rhine riverside life makes it a consistently rewarding destination."
Cologne Cathedral is one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that took over 600 years to complete and dominates the city skyline with extraordinary authority. The Museum Ludwig has one of the finest collections of 20th century art in Europe including an outstanding Pop Art collection. The Romano-Germanic Museum adjacent to the Cathedral houses remarkable Roman antiquities from the city's origins as a Roman settlement. The old town of Cologne along the Rhine provides excellent traditional restaurants and Kölsch beer halls. The Carnival of Cologne in February is one of the largest and most celebrated in Europe.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Cologne Cathedral
A UNESCO World Heritage Gothic masterpiece that took over 600 years to complete.
Museum Ludwig
One of Europe's finest collections of 20th century and Pop Art.
Kölsch Beer Culture
The uniquely local pale ale served in traditional Kölsch glasses in the old town Brauhauser.
Romano-Germanic Museum
Outstanding Roman antiquities from Cologne's origins as a major Roman settlement.
Cologne Carnival
One of Europe's largest and most celebrated carnival celebrations each February.
Rhine Promenades
Beautiful riverside walks along one of Europe's most important and scenic rivers.
