Exploring Köln Like a Local: Best Activities, Food & Attractions
Cologne—Köln if you want to impress the locals—is one of those cities that doesn’t just show you the sights, it wraps you up in its energy. Between its massive cathedral, riverside walks, chocolate museum (yes, that’s real), and beer culture that’s basically a sport, it’s a city that keeps you smiling.
I’ve been here enough times to know which spots are worth your time, which ones you can skip, and where you should definitely order that second glass of Kölsch. So, here’s my not-too-serious but very useful list of the best things to do in Cologne.
Gawk at the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
The very moment you step out of the train station—boom—there it is. Cologne’s Cathedral, standing there like, “Yeah, I’ve been here for centuries. What have you done with your life?”
It’s massive, gothic, and absolutely worth going inside. The stained glass throws colors across the stone walls like nature’s disco lights. If you’re feeling energetic (or just want to prove to yourself that you still have functioning lungs), climb the 533 steps to the top. The view over the city and the Rhine River is spectacular, even if your legs start negotiating early retirement halfway up.
Local tip: Go early in the morning for fewer tourists. Bonus points if you bring coffee for when you collapse at the top.
Cross the Hohenzollern Bridge and Spy on the Love Locks
This bridge is an Instagram dream. Thousands upon thousands of love locks line the railings—some sweet, some funny, some that make you think, “Are they still together?”
Even if you’re not locking your love here, the view of the cathedral from the middle of the bridge is postcard-perfect. If you time it for sunset, the whole city glows like it’s trying to seduce you.
Wander the Old Town (Altstadt) and Pretend You Live There
Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and squares where it’s almost illegal not to order a beer—that’s Cologne’s Old Town for you.
Grab a table at Alter Markt or Heumarkt, order a Kölsch (Cologne’s beloved local beer), and just people-watch. You’ll see locals chatting, tourists snapping photos, and possibly a bachelor party wearing matching giraffe onesies.
If you’re hungry, order Himmel un Ääd—a surprisingly delicious mix of mashed potatoes, applesauce, and sausage. Trust me, it tastes way better than it sounds.
Museum Hop (and Definitely Eat Chocolate)
Cologne’s museums cover all moods:
- Museum Ludwig – Modern art fans, this is your place. Picassos, Warhols, and enough abstract art to make you say, “Hmm” at least 12 times.
- Romano-Germanic Museum – If you like ancient history, Roman ruins, and fancy mosaics, this is a goldmine.
- Chocolate Museum – The highlight for anyone with taste buds. Learn the history of chocolate, watch it being made, and—most importantly—eat samples. It’s educational and delicious.
Learn the Kölsch Beer Ritual
Drinking Kölsch is basically a Cologne initiation ceremony. Here’s how it works:
They serve it in small, narrow glasses. As soon as yours is empty, the waiter will replace it with a fresh one—without asking. This continues until you surrender by putting your coaster on top of the glass.
Visit a traditional Brauhaus like Früh am Dom or Päffgen for the authentic experience. Don’t rush—part of the joy is chatting with locals, who will happily tell you their life story after two beers.
Explore the Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel)
This is Cologne’s artsy, bohemian neighborhood—boutiques, coffee shops, street art, and people who somehow make wearing a scarf look like high fashion.
It’s quieter than the tourist-heavy Old Town, but the vibe is creative and cool. Stop at a café, order something with oat milk (even if you don’t usually), and just enjoy the scene.
Join the Madness of Cologne Carnival
If you visit in February, brace yourself. Carnival takes over the entire city—costumes, music, parades, beer before noon (socially acceptable here), and enough confetti to last a lifetime.
One year, I ended up dancing next to a man in a full-size cow costume. We didn’t speak the same language, but beer is the universal translator.
Get Festive at the Christmas Markets
In December, Cologne turns into a Christmas wonderland. Markets pop up all over the city, each with its own personality. The one in front of the cathedral is the most famous, but the Angel’s Market at Neumarkt has this magical glow at night.
Drink Glühwein (hot spiced wine) until your nose turns red, eat roasted almonds, and maybe pick up some handmade ornaments that you’ll forget to hang up next year.
Chill Out by the Rhine
When the weather is nice, locals flock to the riverbanks with snacks and drinks. It’s the perfect place to stretch out, enjoy the sunshine, and watch boats drift by.
If you want a different perspective, take a short Rhine cruise. Go in the evening for twinkling city lights—very romantic, even if you’re just there with your backpack.
Take a Day Trip Because You Can
Cologne’s location makes it perfect for quick getaways:
- Bonn – Beethoven’s hometown and small enough for a relaxed day.
- Düsseldorf – Trendy, modern, and home to another famous beer style (just don’t start a Kölsch vs. Altbier debate—it’s a thing).
- Rhine Valley – Castles, vineyards, and scenery so pretty it feels Photoshopped.
Quick Cologne Tips from a Repeat Visitor
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for perfect weather, December for markets, February for Carnival.
- Getting Around: Walk as much as you can. Public transport is great for longer trips.
- Language: English works fine, but “Danke” (thank you) will win hearts.
- Cologne Card: Saves money on museums and includes public transport.
Final Thoughts
Cologne is one of those cities that balances history, culture, and pure fun. It’s where you can climb a 13th-century cathedral in the morning, eat chocolate by the river in the afternoon, and be dancing with a stranger dressed as a pirate by evening.
It’s not a place you just “check off” your list—it’s a place you keep coming back to. And if you leave without drinking Kölsch or eating chocolate, don’t worry… the city will happily welcome you back to fix that mistake.
