Cologne Cathedral is the most visited landmark in the city and also one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows that stretch over 144 meters.
Museum Ludwig is a contemporary art museum that is home to some of the most iconic Pop Art pieces outside the US. With over 900 works of Picasso, the museum is definitely a destination to add to your list if you're an art fan.
The Cologne Old Town's charm lies in the narrow alleyways, colorful houses, and small quirky shops brimming with souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town and try the local "Kolsch" beer and other delicious indulgences.
Rautenstrauch-Joest Museum is a foremost anthropological museum that showcases exhibits from all parts of the world since antiquity. With over 65,000 works in the collection, the museum offers an insight into cultures and their various forms.
The stunning Botanical Garden Flora holds a rich assortment of plants from different countries around the world. The garden path winds its way around delightful lakes, elegant sculptures, and a rose garden. It's an ideal place to unwind and enjoy its scenic beauty.
Cologne's public transportation system includes buses, subways, trams, and local trains that are widely available and efficient. The cost for a single journey is approximately € 2.90, which is valid for one journey of up to 3 hours. Taxis, car rentals, and bike rentals are also readily available, but renting a bike can be an affordable and enjoyable way to tour the city.
If you have more time, consider visiting some other iconic landmarks such as the Chocolate Museum, Hohenzollern Bridge, or the Roman-Germanic Museum. If you have less time, prioritize the Cologne Cathedral and the Museum Ludwig. Try some local cuisine such as the traditional 'Sauerbraten' meat, ‘Halver Hahn’ (Cologne cheese sandwich), or ‘Reibekuchen’, which is a potato fritter usually served with apple sauce.
Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is 24km southeast of Cologne city and well connected by public transport. You can reach the city center by train, bus, or taxi and the journey takes around 15-20mins depending on the mode of transport chosen.