Belgian Quarter, Cologne (Restaurants, Things to Do, Nightlife)

Over the years, the Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) has blossomed into a trendy district beloved by the younger crowd and creative types. There's so much to see and do, you can spend a whole day here!

Through this article we'll journey through Cologne's coolest district to find cute cafés, and vintage stores, multicultural restos and award-winning bars.

Fascinated yet? Let start!👇

Overview of the Belgian Quarter in Cologne

History and Significance of the Neighborhood

Situated north of the Rhine River, the Belgian Quarter has always been one of Cologne's coolest spot. It embodies the essence of people in Cologne; laid-back, a bit rebellious, and totally open-minded!

Now, you might be wondering, why the name "Belgian Quarter"? Well, one reason is it's facing Belgium. Plus, a bunch of its streets are named after Belgian cities, like Brussels, Limburg, Liège, and Brabant.

There's a story that artists like Simon Polke, Wolfgang Niedecken, and Jürgen Zeltinger used to hang out in the bars here, swapping beers and maybe even art for their tabs.

But things have changed a lot – rental prices shot up, and now it's a premium residential area that real estate agents drool over!

Cultural and Artistic Scene

Creativity runs wild in every corner of this eclectic neighborhood. Elegant art galleries proudly display pieces from local artists, while trendy boutiques mingle with thrift shops selling unique finds.

Walls, homes and buildings come alive with graffiti, stickers, and murals — some making bold political statements, others just adding a splash of color.

And theatergoers have a real treat waiting for them. The neighborhood's proximity to the contemporary Volksbühne am Rudolfplatz and the intimate Theater in Bauturm means that artsy performances are just a stone's throw away.

The Belgium Quarter is also home to Hahnentor, one of twelve medieval city gates and a popular landmark of Cologne. [1]

Popular Attractions and Landmarks

Right in the heart of this district is Brüsseler Platz, a hub of artsy boutiques, hip cafes, contemporary restaurants, and stylish bars that open until late.

This is the unofficial spot where people come together to enjoy drinks and socialize after a long day!

Dominating this square is the neo-Romanesque St. Michael's Church, built between 1902 and 1906. [2]

There's usually something happening here; maybe a live DJ set or someone showing off their moves. As the evening rolls around, you'll spot locals gathering here, just chilling and hanging out.

Cologne's oldest park, Stadtgarten, is also in the Belgian Quarter. There's a charming beer garden by the same name, and in late spring, it's perfect for a walk. 

Come Christmas, the park transforms with festive market stalls popping up, thanks to the Christmas market!

Unique Shops and Boutiques

Over a decade ago, German magazine Prinz crowned the Belgian Quarter as Cologne's best neighborhood, and it's easy to see why.

As you wander through it, you'll stumble upon a variety of shops like pearls on a string, including boutiques by lesser-known designers, galleries, record shops, cafés and even a pink büdchen (convenience store).

Up-and-coming designers and skilled goldsmiths have flocked here, offering gems from handmade wedding rings by Schmuck + Form and SCHEE's cute ceramic bowls to trendy Scandinavian labels from Magasin 2.

Whether you're looking for high-end brands or one-of-a-kind finds, the Belgian Quarter will satisfy your shopping cravings.

Trendy Cafes and Restaurants

In the Belgian Quarter, you'll find some of the hottest cafés, restaurants, and bars around.

From Tigermilch which serves first-class Peruvian cuisine to the unforgettable Vietnamese resto Lúa by Danny, the sheer number of international choices reflects this Veedel's (neighborhood) cosmopolitan character.

You'll also find a lineup of great bars here like Little Link or Seiberts; both bars craft top-notch cocktails with a creative twist, making them the perfect spot to wrap up your evening in style!

Things to Do in Belgian Quarter, Cologne

Explore Vintage Clothing, Book, and Record Stores

You'll likely find more vintage shops around the Belgian Quarter area than anywhere else in Cologne.

Most of them are secondhand clothing shops, such as Pick & Weight, Think Twice and Vintage Revivals along Ehrenstraße — where pre-loved high fashion meets street wear meets hippie outfits, at outrageously reasonable prices.

There's also a handful of vintage record stores. My favorite has to be Parallel Schallplatten, they have lots of vinyls and CDs to offer, both new and old. My friend scored some awesome krautrock here.

Another gem is Early Bird Records, run by a super friendly owner who's a walking encyclopedia of hip hop, funk, and rap.

Go to Schuelke Fine Books for good used art books, pre-loved handbags from Glück & Glanz, Loft 43 for antiques and Todd is an upcycle haven!

See A Theatre Performance

In the Belgian Quarter, you'll find a couple of contemporary theaters thanks to its thriving art scene.

Theater im Bauturm, located the basement of the eco-friendly Bauturm Café, is an independent theater on the lively Aachener Straße.

This theater has been a fixture in the Belgian Quarter for years, offering thought-provoking modern plays with political themes!

Another beloved theatre is SCALA Theater on Hohenzollernring. They host live shows and concerts, including orchestra performances, cabaret, and comedy shows.

These indie theatre performances are fantastic ways to get to know new and interesting sides to Cologne culture!

Join Locals For a Drink at Brüsseler Platz 

This square has become a favorite hangout spot in recent years, attracting crowds of young adults.

They gather at the surrounding corner shops for drinks and snacks, enjoying the outdoors well into the night. It's common to strike up a chat with strangers, and make a new friend or two!

Le Kiosk is one of the more popular corner shops and has been dubbed the "coolest place in Köln" and "the place to go if you’re out in Cologne on a Friday or Saturday night".

The eye-catchingly pink Kölnkiosk is another local favorite. It's not your average kiosk, though. You might catch some small performances happening right by the window, which always draw in fans!

Laugh Out Loud At A Comedy Club

You'll come across quite a number of places in the Belgian Quarter that offer performances at comedy clubs and theaters!

One of them is the KleinKunst Bar on Kamekestraße, a non-profit that strives to raise awareness about queer culture and cabaret. So, the drag and comedy shows they put on feature artists who perform for free.

Each show is unique because there's no set program – it's all spontaneous!

Another spot worth checking out is Punchline Comedy, which hosts stand-up comedy shows and open mic nights. What's great is that newcomers also have the chance to try out their comedy chops!

Relax in The City Garden

For those seeking a quiet retreat, look no further than the green haven next to the Belgian Quarter – the Stadtgarten ("city garden").

Here, you can relax on a picnic blanket, take your dog for a stroll, let the kids play in the playground, or simply sit on a bench and soak up the evening sun.

It also has a beer garden, similarly named Stadtgarten. If you're fortunate, you could snag a live music gig on the weekends!

Pick Up Unique Knick Knacks 

Forget the mainstream shopping scene on Schildergasse and Hohe street and dive into the eclectic indie boutiques of the Belgian Quarter!

Things We Like is pretty self-explanatory — this quaint store sells all types of beautiful things! According to the owner, their collection consists of "beautiful, affordable home accessories in Scandinavian design with a boho twist".

Be on the lookout for elegant ceramics, stylish cushion covers, scented candles, and uniquely shaped mirrors!

Another must-visit shop is SCHEE on Maastrichter Strasse. This concept store is known for special home decor items, ones that you won't find just anywhere.

Admire The Eclectic Street Art

The Belgian Quarter is known as one of the top spots for street art in Cologne.

To start, head over to the area between Aachenerstraße and Venloerstraße — murals and stencil art adorn street corners, lamp posts, and garage doors.

One piece I love is the "It's The Cologne Way" graffiti on Antwerpener Straße, by street artist Henning Hüttner. The building's facade is covered in vibrant flowers, spreading a message of love to passersby!

Wherever you go, the street art in the Belgian Quarter is known works showcasing political messages, humor, and pure aesthetic beauty.

Visit Independent Art Galleries

If you've been inspired by street art in the Belgian Quarter, and want to take home some art, there are plenty of art galleries here.

For instance, there's KUNst&So, a gallery that focuses on showcasing artworks by local artists from Cologne.

Another one is 30works Galerie on Pfeilstraße. They have a collection of pop and street art by both new and established artists. Some names include "Banana Sprayer" Thomas Baumgärtel and American street artist AVone!

For a unique time, check out Kunstbruder for lunch. It's a street art gallery that's also a restaurant where you can enjoy food while surrounded by art by local street artists.

Belgian Quarter Bars & Restaurants

Taste The Best Ice Cream in Town

When it's sunny outside, you can expect a big crowd gathering at Salon Schmitz. Many people in Cologne swear by this place for its incredible ice cream and sorbets.

Everything is made in-house, so if you have to wait in line for a bit, don't worry – it's worth it! One scoop of ice cream or sorbet costs just 2€.

Our favorites are the green tea and lemon cheesecake flavors. The sorbets are also fantastic, so even vegans will find something they love.

Discover Amazing Vegan Eats

The vegan-slash-vegetarian food scene in the Belgian Quarter is alive and well, from beautifully presented raw vegan dishes to vegetarian burger joints!

You'll find many of these spots near Aachener Straße, like Veggie Vu, which offers Asian vegan cuisine, Hempies, a cute vegan cafe, and To80 Vegan, a Vietnamese restaurant.

However my favorite is still Hommage on Friesenstraße, a charming coffee shop offering delicious vegan breakfast plates that even even die-hard carnivores will love.

Join Local Events and Festivals

For example, during the Christmas season, a Christmas market is held at the Stadtgarten. Since this is such artsy and creative area, so you'll find cool artisanal fashion, art, and jewelry here!

In January, the Passagen Festival is a time when local designers and their unique creations are showcased. [3] You'll navigate a "design trail" through the city, visiting galleries, furniture stores, and museums along the way.

And in April, Le Tour Belgique takes over the quarter for a weekend. There's a full day and night of activities, including DJ sets, live concerts, art exhibits, theater performances, and much more.

Try Trendy Eateries with Multicultural Cuisines

While Cologne's local cuisine is undeniably fantastic, I personally enjoy exploring new flavors too. The Belgian Quarter, in particular, packs in a dizzying variety of cuisines, from Greek to Peruvian.

For something a little more exotic, Shaka Zulu offers delicious African dishes like Tanzanian fish stew and Malawian Lemon Chicken, while you can get the best darn samosas in Cologne from Flavour Of India.

But what's the Belgian Quarter without Belgian food? Enjoy bitterballen (creamy meat-filled balls) and frikandel (minced-meat sausage) with a Belgian cherry beer at Maria Eetcafe, or grab hot Belgian fries from Frites Belgique!

Sip On Delicious Cocktails

No other German city parties as hard as Cologne (except maybe Berlin) and the top cocktail bars in the city are known for creative drinks that'll knock your socks off.

And some of Cologne's best cocktail bars are found in the Belgian Quarter — one of them is Little Link, a simple neighborhood joint repeatedly voted as one of the city's best.

Spirits is an upscale bar serving up delicious cocktails with a live DJ on Fridays, and SIXPACK promises something other than the usual Kölsch beer crowd; it's where friendly hipsters, partygoers, celebrities, and club scene regulars hang out.

Brunch in Style at the Trendiest Cafés

With numerous hip and trendy cafes popping up all over Cologne, finding the hottest brunch spots feels like a competitive sport, especially in the Belgian Quarter!

If you're a coffee nerd, you'll appreciate the other coffee hipsters at Kaffeesaurus. If you like a retro feel, try Hallmackenreuther at Brüsseler Platz, it's always popular.

And for those who love to photo-document their brunch dates, Miss Päpki is a pretty café on with a romantic atmosphere and beautiful interior.

Comparison with Other Districts in Cologne

Ehrenfeld: A Competitor to the Belgian Quarter

Ehrenfeld, an up-and-coming trendy district in Cologne, is giving the Belgian Quarter a run for its money!

Known for its growing creative scene, Ehrenfeld boasts impressive street art, unique cafes, and cool fashion boutiques.

The trendy pubs and clubs in this urban neighborhood, like Sonic Ballroom and Club Bahnhof, have also made it a popular hotspot among students and partygoers.

Located just outside of the city center, Ehrenfeld is filled with a bohemian atmosphere that attracts those looking for a laidback vibe.

It's no wonder this neighborhood is considered one of the best places to live in Cologne.

Cologne Old Town vs Belgian Quarter

Most travel guides will mention Cologne's Old Town, located in the center of Cologne. 

It's often the place first-time tourists will visit, as it is home to many of the city's most famous landmarks and historical sites, such as the Cologne Cathedral, the Romanesque Church of St. Martin, and the Chocolate Museum.

It's also very accessible by public transportation!

On the other hand, the Belgian Quarter is known for its lively arts and nightlife, one-of-a-kind shops, trendy cafes, and a variety of dining options.

Stepping into the Old Town feels historic and traditional, while the Belgian Quarter has a more indie, bohemian vibe popular with young folks.

In general, I feel the Old Town is a good choice for families, couples, and history buffs. The Belgian Quarter is more suited for young adults and those who are seeking a more creative energy.

Just a heads up: stuff in the Old Town, being a tourist spot, can be a bit more expensive than in the Belgian Quarter!

Why the Belgian Quarter Stands Out

The Belgian Quarter is considered one of the hottest districts in Cologne, attracting tourists and and those looking for a place to stay.

It's got all sorts of interesting food spots and unique shops, making it a hit with those who want something off the beaten path.

And when the sun goes down, the Belgian Quarter lights up with its buzzing nightlife. It's the place to be for fun after dark in Cologne.

Conclusion: Belgian Quarter Cologne

The Belgian Quarter in Cologne is a chic and creative neighborhood with an exciting mix of art, food, and fashion.

With its laidback atmosphere, one-of-a-kind shops, charming cafes, and multicultural eateries, it's one of the places I love visiting the most on my days off.

Whether you're looking for vintage treasure, a good cocktail or a live music venue to end the night with, the Belgian Quarter will not disappoint.

Key Takeaways

• The Belgian Quarter in Cologne is a trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant cultural and artistic scene, unique shops, and stylish cafes and restaurants.
• This district offers a blend of history and modernity with landmarks like St. Michael's Church at Brüsseler Platz and the Hahnentorburg city gate.
• Visitors can explore vintage clothing stores, bookshops, and record shops, as well as enjoy live performances at theaters like Theater im Bauturm or SCALA Theater.
• Foodies will love the dizzying variety of cuisine available in the Belgian Quarter, from vegan eateries and cool cafes to award-winning restaurants from around the world.

FAQs

1. What is the Belgian Quarter in Cologne?

The Belgian Quarter is a neighborhood located in the city of Cologne, Germany.

2. What makes the Belgian Quarter unique?

The Belgian Quarter is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and lively nightlife.

3. Are there any local attractions to visit in the Belgian Quarter?

Yes, the Belgian Quarter offers various attractions such as art galleries, vintage shops, street markets, and historical landmarks like St. Michael's Church.

4. Can I find good places to eat or drink in the Belgian Quarter?

Absolutely! The Belgian Quarter boasts a wide range of restaurants offering diverse cuisines as well as hip bars and craft beer spots for those looking to unwind.

5. Is it easy to access public transportation from the Belgian Quarter?

Yes, the neighborhood has excellent public transportation links including tram stops and bus stations that make it convenient to explore other parts of Cologne.