Things to do in Cologne

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Cologne, Selected for You!

Aug 20, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025
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Good (13)

St. Maria in der Kupfergasse

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Schwalbengasse 1
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St. Maria in der Kupfergasse, located in Cologne's Innenstadt, is a Baroque church dedicated to St. Mary, the Black Madonna, completed in 1715.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry for all visitors.

Cologne Theater

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Theater
Stammstraße 38-40
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Cologne Theatre, located in Cologne, Germany, is renowned for its architectural beauty and vibrant cultural performances, attracting art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Tickets range from €15 to €80 depending on the performance and seating selection. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Good (35980)

Cologne Cathedral

10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Monument
4 Domkloster
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Cologne Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Gothic church in Cologne, Germany, known for its twin towers and historical significance, drawing 20,000 daily visitors.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free for general entry. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (464)

RheinEnergieStadion

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Stadium
Aachener Str. 999 (Olympiaweg)
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RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne, Germany, is the home stadium of 1. FC Köln, showcasing modern architecture and hosting various events.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours for a match or event.

Prices vary by event. Football matches typically range from €15 to €50 depending on seating selection.

Good (17259)

Cologne Chocolate Museum

Mo-Fr 10:00-18:00; Sa,Su 11:00-19:00; Jan 02-easter Mo off; Nov Mo off
Museum
Am Schokoladenmuseum 1a
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Chocolate Museum Cologne explores 5000 years of cocoa history with interactive exhibits, a production facility, and a chocolate fountain. Located in Cologne, Germany.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Prices vary by category: Adults €12, Children €6.

Good (123)

Cologne Cable Car

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Bridge
Riehler Str. 180 (Sachsenbergstr. 3)
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The Rhine Cable Car in Cologne offers a 930-meter gondola lift over the Rhine River, connecting both banks at the Zoo Bridge, providing scenic views of the city.

Duration: 30-45 minutes.

Adults: €4.40, Children (6-14): €2.80. Children under 6 ride free.

Good (457)

Cologne City Hall

8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Architectural Building
Rathausplatz 1
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Cologne City Hall, Germany's oldest city hall, showcases Gothic architecture with a Renaissance loggia and a historic tower dating back to 1393.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

University of Cologne

8:00 AM–6:00 PM
University
Albertus-Magnus-Platz 1 (Universitätsstraße)
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University of Cologne, established in 1388, is one of Europe's oldest universities located in Cologne, Germany, known for its outstanding research and diverse programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to the university grounds and public events is free, while specific programs may charge a fee.

Good (1582)

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-18:00
Museum
40 Obenmarspforten
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The Wallraf Richartz Museum in Cologne houses a vast collection of European art from the 13th to the 19th centuries, with significant pieces from the Gothic to Impressionist periods.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (34)
Kolpingplatz
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The Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Cologne is a 13th-century Franciscan church known for its historical architecture and serene ambiance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Good (4367)

Hohenzollern Bridge

Open 24 hours
Bridge
Hohenzollernbrücke
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Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne, Germany, spans the Rhine River, featuring walkways for pedestrians and trains, with a tradition of love locks since 2008.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free. No tickets required for bridge access.

Good (1842)

Farina Fragrance Museum

Mo-Sa 10:00-19:00;Su 11:00-17:00
Museum
Obenmarspforten 21
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The Farina Fragrance Museum in Cologne reveals the origins of Eau de Cologne, showcasing 300 years of perfume history and guided tours every hour.

Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Paid. Booking in advance is recommended.

Good (768)

Botanical Gardens Flora

8:00 AM–Dusk
Garden
Amsterdamer Str. 34
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Botanical Gardens Flora in Cologne features diverse cacti and plant houses, established in the 1800s along the scenic Rhine River.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur a charge.

Good (240)

Neptunbad

9:00 AM–11:00 PM
Spa Center
Neptunplatz 1
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Neptunbad, located in Cologne, Germany, is a historic spa complex known for its Roman-style architecture, wellness offerings, and cultural significance.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Entry fee: €25 for adults, €15 for children. Discounts available for family packages.

Good (590)

Lanxess Arena

10:00 AM–11:00 PM
Stadium
9 Deutz/Kolnarena
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Lanxess Arena in Cologne is a premier indoor arena hosting concerts, sports events, and more. It seats up to 20,000 and is a key attraction in Germany.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on the event.

Varies per event. Discounts available for students and groups.

Good (4736)

Ludwig Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-18:00
Museum
Bischofsgartenstr. 1
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Museum Ludwig in Cologne, Germany, features modern art, housing a vast collection including Picasso, Warhol, and more, showcasing major movements from the 20th century.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (234)

Church of St Maria im Kapitol

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Kasinostrasse 6
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Church of St Maria im Kapitol is an 11th-century Romanesque church in Cologne, Germany, known for its intricate architecture and historical significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

Cologne Zoo

9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Zoo
Riehler Str. 173
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Cologne Zoo, established in 1860, houses over 700 species and is known for its commitment to conservation and education.

Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Adults: €19.50, Children (4-12): €10, Family ticket available; discounts for students and seniors.

Good (37)

Hiroshima Nagasaki Park

Open 24 hours
Park
Bachemer Strasse
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Hiroshima Nagasaki Park in Cologne honors peace and reconciliation, featuring memorials and green spaces dedicated to the cities affected by atomic bombings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Events may have a nominal charge.

Good (25)
Schillingsrotter Str. 100
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Forstbotanischer Garten und Friedenswald in Cologne offers diverse plant species across 26 hectares, ideal for nature enthusiasts and tranquil walks.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special workshops may have a fee.

Good (2256)

Rheinpark

6:00 AM–11:00 PM
Park
50679 Cologne
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Rheinpark in Cologne, Germany, is a large landscaped park featuring fountains, playgrounds, and a scenic cableway along the Rhine River banks.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (2)

Altes Pfandhaus

10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Theater
Kartaeuserwall 20
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Altes Pfandhaus in Cologne, Germany, is a historical pawnbroker's house with stunning architecture, now serving as a cultural venue for events and exhibitions.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (2481)

Roman-Germanic Museum

"Wegen Generalsanierung seit Januar 2019 bis auf weiteres geschlossen. Führungen zum Dionysos-Mosaik Dienstag bis Sonntag um 10 Uhr, 11 Uhr, 15 Uhr, 15.30 Uhr, 16 Uhr, 16.30 Uhr"
Museum
4 Roncalliplatz
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Romano-Germanic Museum in Cologne showcases ancient Roman artifacts, including the famous Dionysus mosaic and various ornate jewelry pieces.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Temporarily Closed. Future ticket prices to be announced.

Volksgarten Park

6:00 AM–11:00 PM
Park
Volksgartenstr. 27
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Cologne Volksgarten is a historic public park in Cologne, Germany, featuring beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a vital part of the city's cultural landscape.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require admission fees.

Hanneschen Theatre

11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Theater
Eisenmarkt 2-4
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Hänneschen Theater in Cologne, Germany, features traditional puppetry since 1802, showcasing unique characters and plays that highlight local culture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Adults: €10, Children: €5. Discounts available for group bookings.

St. Germanus

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
Bonner Str. 11
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Kath.Pfarramt St. Germanus in Wesseling, Cologne, features notable architecture and a significant cultural heritage dating back to its inception.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free access to the church; donations welcomed for special events.

Good (45)

Museum of East Asian Art Cologne

Tu-Su,PH 11:00-17:00
Museum
Universitaetsstr. 100
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Museum for East-Asian Art in Cologne houses a vast collection of East Asian artifacts, showcasing cultural heritage from China, Japan, Korea, and more.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

€5 for adults, €2.50 for students and seniors. Free for children under 12.

Good (34637)

Phantasialand

PH,Mo-Su 09:00-18:00
Theme Park
Berggeiststrasse 31-41
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Phantasialand in Cologne, Germany features 6 themed areas, thrilling rides, live shows, and themed dining offerings, attracting 2M+ visitors annually.

Duration: 5–7 hours.

Prices vary. Adults from €50, children from €42. Discounts for online purchases and group bookings.

Good (346)

Saint Gereon's Basilica

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Church
Gereonskloster 2
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St. Gereon's Basilica, a Romanesque church in Cologne, Germany, features a distinct 10-sided dome and historical significance dating back to the 11th century.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome; no paid tickets required.

Good (428)

Heinzelmannchen Fountain

Open all day
Fountain
am Brauhaus Frueh Am Hof 12-14
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Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, a fountain in Cologne, Germany, celebrates the mythical Heinzelmännchen, inspired by local folklore, with historical significance and unique architecture.

Duration: About 30 minutes.

Free.

Good (552)

Museum of Applied Art Cologne

Mo off; Tu-Su, PH 11:00-17:00; Dec24, Dec 25, Dec 31, Jan 01 off || "Jeden ersten Donnerstag im Monat – KölnTag (außer an Feiertagen) 11 - 22 geöffnet; Karneval (Weiberfastnacht bis Karnevalsdienstag) geschlossen"
Museum
An der Rechtsschule
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Museum for Applied Art in Cologne exhibits European arts and crafts from the Middle Ages to modern design. Explore jewelry, textiles, furniture, and more.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Paid. Discounts for students and groups may apply.

Good (792)

Kolumba

Mo,We-Su 12:00-17:00; Tu off, Sep 01-Sep 14 off
Museum
Kolumbastrasse 4
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Kolumba Kunstmuseum des Erzbistums Köln features Christian art from antiquity to the present, set within the ruins of St. Kolumba church in Cologne, Germany.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

6 EUR for adults, 4 EUR for students and seniors. Free for children and first Wednesday of each month.

Good (2046)
Appellhofplatz 23-25
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Denkmal für die Gestapo-Opfer in Cologne memorializes victims of the Gestapo, representing a significant historical site highlighting human rights abuses during the Nazi era.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are encouraged but not mandatory.

Good (957)

Gross St Martin

Mo off; Tu-Sa 09:30-19:39; Su 10:00-19:15
Church
An Groß St. Martin
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Groß St. Martin is a Romanesque church in Cologne, Germany, founded in the 12th century atop Roman ruins, notable for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Okidoki Kinderland Koln

10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Theme Park
Cologne
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Okidoki Kinderland Köln is an expansive indoor playground in Cologne, Germany, featuring slides, climbing structures, and more for young children.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

€8 for children aged 1-12, free for adults.

Good (296)

St Ursula

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Ursulaplatz 30
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Saint Ursula in Cologne, Germany, is a Romanesque basilica known for its bone reliquary and historical significance linked to St. Ursula and her 11,000 companions.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Some special events may charge a fee.

Good (198)

Basilica of the Holy Apostles

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Neumarkt 30
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Saint Aposteln is a Romanesque basilica in Cologne dedicated to the twelve Apostles, featuring stunning architecture and regular concerts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special concerts and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (31)

AntoniterCityKirche

Mo-Fr 11:00-19:00; Sa 11:00-17:00; Su, PH 11:00-17:30
Church
Schildergasse 57
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Antoniterkirche, located in Cologne, Germany, is a historic church renowned for its unique architecture and rich cultural significance, making it a significant site for visitors.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Good (10)

Ubiermonument

Th[1] 14:00-17:00
Museum
An der Malzmuehle 1
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Ubiermonument in Cologne, Germany, is a unique archaeological site showcasing remnants of the Roman era, highlighted by a preserved altar and ancient artifacts.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special guided tours may require a ticket.

Good (48)

Jan von Werth Fountain

Open all day
Monument
Alter Markt
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Jan von Werth Fountain in Cologne features a historic bronze statue in a vibrant public square, celebrating the legacy of the 17th-century military leader.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No payment required for entry and viewing.

Good (3)

Kolner Karnevalsmuseum

11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Museum
Maarweg 134-136
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Kolner Karnevalsmuseum in Cologne illustrates the history and cultural significance of Carnival in the region through exhibits, costumes, and interactive displays.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Adults: €5, Children (under 12): Free.

Good (4)

Die Photographische Sammlung

Mo-Tu 14:00-19:00; Th-Su 14:00-19:00
Museum
Im Mediapark 7
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Die Photographische Sammlung in Cologne showcases an extensive collection of photographs, emphasizing the art of photography and its historical context.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur a charge.

Good (2)

Auferstehungskirche Buchforst

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Kopernikusstrasse 32/34
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Auferstehungskirche Buchforst is a historic church located in Cologne-Buchforst, Germany, known for its unique architectural style and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (16)

Cologne Synagogue

10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Church
Roonstr. 50
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Cologne Synagogue stands as a significant center for Jewish culture and worship in Cologne, Germany, showcasing its historical and architectural value.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events and maintenance.

Good (8)

Kunsthaus Rhenania

11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Museum
Bayenstraße 28
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Kunsthaus Rhenania in Cologne, Germany is a contemporary art space founded in 2000, focusing on exhibitions that promote regional and international artists.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur a fee.

Good (5)

Japanisches Kulturinstitut

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Event hall
Universitaetsstrasse 98
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Japanisches Kulturinstitut in Cologne promotes Japanese culture through events, exhibitions, and educational programs, featuring a unique architectural design and tranquil gardens.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (1)

St. Gertrud

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
Krefelder Str. 57
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St. Gertrud is a historic church located in Neustadt-Nord, Cologne, Germany, known for its unique architectural features and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Good (24)

Saint Pantaleon

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Am Pantaleonsberg 10A
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Saint Pantaleon in Cologne is a historic church from the 10th century, known for its Romanesque architecture and vibrant religious heritage.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special guided tours may incur a fee.

Good (4)

Rhenish Industrial Railway Museum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Museum
Longericher Str. 249
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Rhenish Industrial Railway Museum in Cologne showcases the history of rail transport with extensive exhibits, historical locomotives, and engaging displays for all ages.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Adult: €7, Child (6-14): €3. Family tickets available.

Good (1)
Wormser Str. 23
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Kunstraeume der Michael Horbach Stiftung in Cologne features contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events, housed in a unique architectural setting.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.