Cologne

Germany

Germany Travel Guide

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.


Shop Book
Cologne's Old Town with Great St. Martin church and Cologne Cathedral - Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
1144623412

Getty Images

Why visit Cologne

Cologne (Köln) offers a mother lode of attractions, led by its famous cathedral whose filigree twin spires dominate the skyline. The city’s museum landscape is especially strong when it comes to art but also has something in store for fans of chocolate, sports and even Roman history. Cologne's people are known for their liberalism and joie de vivre; it’s easy to have a good time with them in the beer halls of the Altstadt or during Carnival.

Lonely planet’s trusted travel insurance provider

Dreaming of Cologne? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

LEARN MORE

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Take your Germany trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

Gems of Germany: Cross-Country Castles, Culture, and Cuisine in 13 Days

highlights

  1. 1 Sipping regional white wines in the rolling hills and lush countryside of the Rhine Valley
  2. 2 Indulging in the lavish spa culture and thermal baths of elegant Baden-Baden
  3. 3 Channeling your inner royal throughout Bavaria's many, magnificent castles
from $4,570

per person

Want our experts to design a custom trip for you?
start planning

Top places to visit in Cologne

Discover the best attractions in Cologne from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Travel Guides

Cologne travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

With its world-famous cathedral, happening food scene and museums to explore, Cologne is the perfect European city break.


Read full article

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Cologne