Cologne (Köln)
Cologne, or Köln as the locals say, is a charming city in western Germany with a history that stretches back over 2,000 years. Originally a Roman settlement, it blossomed into a medieval powerhouse and is famous for its spectacular Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s rich past is visible everywhere, from ancient Roman ruins to the bustling old town with narrow cobblestone streets that tell tales of centuries gone by.
Cologne is best known for its vibrant cultural scene and, of course, its signature scent, Eau de Cologne, the original lemony fragrance created here in the 18th century. Visitors flock to the city not just for history and shopping, but to soak up its lively festivals, especially the world renowned Cologne Carnival, a colourful and raucous party that embraces everyone with open arms. Art lovers adore the city’s museums, like the Museum Ludwig with its impressive collection of modern art, while foodies dive into hearty Rhineland cuisine and sample Kölsch, the local beer served in those adorable small glasses.
What makes Cologne so much fun to visit is its infectious energy and warm, friendly vibe. Wander along the Rhine promenade for picturesque views, hop on a river cruise, or explore quirky neighbourhoods like Ehrenfeld, packed with street art, indie cafes, and cool bars. Whether you’re munching on a traditional sausage, browsing the Christmas markets, or dancing till dawn during Carnival, Cologne invites you to join in and have a bloody good time! It’s a city that doesn’t just welcome visitors, it celebrates them.
Fast Tips
-
2018 - Stayed in Airbnb (4 nights)
2025 - Stayed at Steigenberger Hotel Köln (3 nights)
-
The city boasts a comprehensive network of trams, buses, and trains operated mainly by KVB (Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe).
It features a robust network of trams (Stadtbahn or U-Bahn) and buses, with regional trains also integrated into the VRS network.
Tickets are straightforward and can be bought at stations, via vending machines, or on mobile apps; you just need to validate them before hopping on.
-
Popular spots can get booked out, but even places with book ins have heaps of space for walk ins. I have never booked in Cologne, and I have never had an issue getting a seat anywhere.
-
As a queer male I felt completely safe here. Cologne is as liberal of Berlin in germany and open to all, and LGBTQ+ friendly as well.
-
3-4 nights is the perfect amount if you want to explore the city and food scene. There are many christmas markets, so a trip here December, you’ll have a glut of markets to explore.
-
There is many classic hotels and even airbnbs. I have done both here and each stay was marvellous. The hotel I stayed in last time, Steigenberger Hotel Köln, was as good as it gets and very reasonably priced. Plus the loaction was very close to a of the cool eats and sips, so very easy to walk everywhere.
-
Explore the stunning Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) – a jaw-dropping Gothic masterpiece you’ll want to snap a million photos of.
We visited Claudius Therme thermal baths, just outsite the city square and it is wonderfully relaxing. Prepare to get naked in the sauna areas though, the main area is swimsuit mandatory though.
Wander through the Old Town (Altstadt), packed with charming cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and cosy pubs serving Kölsch beer.
Check out the Museum Ludwig for a trip into some seriously cool modern art and Picasso vibes.
Stroll along the Rhine River promenade, especially at sunset, and maybe hop on a river cruise to see the city from a fresh angle.
Visit the Hohenzollern Bridge, lock in a love padlock, and enjoy the killer views over the city skyline.
Go on a brewery tour to get the lowdown on how Kölsch beer is made and taste it straight from the source.
Eats & Sips
PETER BRAUHAUS
If you want a classic brauhaus that’ll have all of your German favourites, look no further than Peter’s. It’s an institution with two outposts. You’ll have a beer in your hand within seconds of sitting down, and it doesn’t get much better than that.
ERSTE LIEBE
All day eatery, Erste does all well without trying too hard. We loved the breakfast, the open plan corner spot was perfect in the summer. Not to mention the breakfast plate was a ‘loves to pick at multiple things’ eaters perfect plate.
HIN & WIG
Cologne is known for little kiosks that shoot out coffee but also work as a small convenience store scattered through the city. My favourite? Hen & Wig who have turned the kiosk tradition into a very cool coffee spot. Best to grab and go or sit on the stool out the front and enjoy the brew.
BEI OMA KLEINMANN
For the ones who love and take their schnitzels seriously, and more importantly like it your own way, this spot will make you very happy. Be careful as it does get booked out, but if it’s a nice day there is heaps of outdoor spots to grab as a walk in.
FIENRIPP & GOLD
A bougie sandwich shop for dinner might not jog your interest but it really should. My partners favourite meal from the trip, this place is cool and creates high end sandwiches. It’s also where all the cool kids are eating,
FROHNATUR BISTROOO
I am sucker for a cool wine bar and this is a cool wine bar. Wines that celebrate the German region, the snacks are also top tier. Great for an afternoon wine or to finish the night.
BAD APE
Essentially an oasis for health in the heavy holiday eating, Bad Ape is salads on salads. Great to takeaway or stop it for a lunch salad, they really do not disappoint, and you can mix and match as you like.
CLOUD KITCHEN
Looking for a little bit of brunch that equals the best haunts in Australia, Cloud is perfect for you. The breakfast plates don’t mess around, full of flavour and quick so you can smash your day faster.
ROSEBUD
A bar that specialises in everything. The cocktails are great, the wine is juicy and delicious and the courtyard is an absolute vibe. In winter the moody interior is just as fun though.
GRACE & GRAPE
You’ve walked around all day, and its not time for dinner, or juuve just finished dinner and cocktail with excellent service is what you deserve then look no further. It is some of the best service I have ever had in Europe and the cocktails in house or classics hit the absolute spot.
*media & images courtesy of publications, establishment websites and social media pages as well as Tripadvisor. I do not claim to own some of the images provided.