Cologne Old Town Guide (Things to Do, Hotels, Restaurants & Shops)

Planning a trip to the charming Cologne Old Town and not sure what you must see? Well, I've brought many friends around Cologne and the Old Town is always an essential stop — and there's nothing better than a local showing you around.

In this post, you'll find everything from must-visit attractions like the majestic Cologne Cathedral to little-known gems only known among locals.

Scroll down for the ultimate guide to experiencing the magic of Cologne's Old Town! 👇

History and Significance of Cologne Old Town

When you enter the Old Town (or Altstad in German), you cannot help but feel an infectious & lively atmosphere — it's where locals come to have their morning schnapps and where Jecks gather in the name of revelry during the annual Carnival.

It's also the place where tourists come in droves to pay homage to the 600-year-old Cologne Cathedral, dumbstruck by its magnificence. [2]

But if you think that's the extent of the Old Town's charm, you're sorely mistaken.

Cologne was mostly destroyed in World War II, so what's known as the Old Town was actually mostly reconstructed after 1945, save for a few precious structures and buildings.

But unlike many reconstructed old areas, Cologne Old Town doesn't feel artificial at all. Many locals still frequent the brewpubs to eat and hang out, and the place is buzzing with activity day and night.

And before Cologne become known as "Cologne", it was a major Roman city called Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium over 2,000 years ago. As a matter of fact, remnants of Cologne's ancient Roman past can be spotted around the Old Town, if you know where to look! [1]

Top Attractions in Cologne Old Town

Cologne Cathedral

You don't have to be Catholic to find the Cologne Cathedral (or simply the "Dom") utterly stunning. The grand Cathedral dominates the skyline and its extraordinary twin spires cast long shadows over the Rhine.

As one of Europe's tallest churches, the Dom is European Gothic architecture at its finest. However it took a long time – a whopping 600 years – for it to be completed.

Construction actually began in the Middle Ages, but stopped due to a lack of money for over 300 years. It wasn't until 1842 that construction resumed, and finally, in 1880, the cathedral was completed.

The stained glass windows are especially stunning, showing scenes from both the New and Old Testaments. Inside, you can also light a candle and say a prayer. In fact, there's plenty of room to find peace away from the crowd.

There's also the Shrine of the Three Wise Men. A magnificent reliquary, it's said to house the remains of the biblical Magi (aka 'the Three Wise Men'). It's a stunning piece of craftsmanship and an important religious artifact.

If you have the stamina, it's worth climbing the 500 steps to the rooftop of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The panoramic views from the top are amazing, and a great photo spot.

(P.S. The stairs leading up are quite narrow and can be a challenging climb. So take note of that!)

📍Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany

Museum Ludwig

We stumbled into Museum Ludwig while looking for another museum in Cologne, and promptly stayed for hours admiring their expansive art collection!

The museum houses an impressive collection of modern art, including pop art, abstract and surrealism, with one of the largest Picasso collections in the world.

Established in 1976, it's quickly became one of the top museums in Cologne to visit!

Since the museum is parked just behind Cologne Cathedral, and beside the Hohenzollern Bridge, it's actually a good idea to hitting all three attractions in a row!

📍Museum Ludwig, Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Köln, Germany

Roman-Germanic Museum

Cologne is home to many world-class museums, and one of them is the Romano-Germanic Museum. This is a must if you're keen on archaeology and Roman culture on the Rhine since the Middle Ages.

Sitting next to the Cologne Cathedral, the museum is built on the very site of a 3rd-century Roman villa — in fact, the famous Dionysus mosaic is still in its original place in the basement!

The museum does a really good job at showing the daily life in Roman Cologne. [3]

They've got everything from gravestones and portraits, to glass pottery and even medical gear (which you wouldn't really expect in that era). I'd say you can easily spend a couple of hours checking it all out!

📍The Romano-Germanic Museum on Roncalliplatz is closed due to renovations. The exhibits are temporarily in the Belgian House.

Farina Fragrance Museum

The Cologne Cathedral isn't the only thing that put this city on the global map – the famous fragrance known as Eau de Cologne played a role too.

Naturally, the Farina Fragrance Museum is devoted to the man behind it all, Giovanni Maria Farina.

Three centuries of fragrance and fragrance history can be found here. We also got to learn how they made Eau de Cologne in the past compared to today, which is pretty cool! 

Plus, you get a little bottle of the scent to take home, which was a delight, given that our tickets were already very affordable.

📍 Obenmarspforten 21, 50667 Köln, Germany

Wallraf-Richartz Museum

If you're a fan of medieval art, you can't miss this museum. The Wallraf-Richartz is devoted entirely to European art from the 13th to the early 19th century.

In fact, this brainchild of Johann Heinrich Richartz and Ferdinand Franz Wallraf boasts one of the world's largest collections of medieval paintings — including Stefan Lochner's Madonna of the Rose Bower, known as the 'Mona Lisa of Cologne'! [4]

Not only is entry very affordable, the Wallraf-Richartz museum is HUGE.

You can spend hours admiring impressionist and neo-impressionist paintings by the likes of Monet and Renoir to Baroque, and 19th century collections including artists like van Gogh, Bonnard and Munch.

📍 Obenmarspforten 40, 50667 Köln, Germany

The Historic Town Hall

Built from 1569 to 1573, the ancient Cologne Town Hall, known as Historisches Rathaus der Stadt, stands as unquestionably one of Cologne's most splendid structures. The best part? You can enter and look around for free.

Constructed from 1569 to 1573, its beauty is so captivating that it's a popular choice for weddings, serving as a picturesque setting for dreamy photoshoots. 

Throughout the years, this historic venue has played host to royalty, dignitaries, and celebrities.

📍Historisches Rathaus der Stadt, Rathauspl. 2, 50667 Köln, Germany

Groß St. Martin

Groß St. Martin is another striking landmark in the heart of Cologne's Old Town. As one of Cologne's 12 ancient Romanesque churches, it's established above a former Roman chapel. 

Sadly, the church suffered significant damage during World War II, and had to undergo restoration efforts spanning from 1948 to 1985.

Today, the church stands as an iconic Cologne landmark with its crossing tower and a unique triconch plan. If you can, visit the crypt below which preserves remains of the old Roman chapel.

📍An Groß St. Martin, 50667 Köln, Germany

The Kallendresser of Cologne

In the Old Town, you'll encounter several cheeky monuments tucked away in various nooks and crannies. It does take a sharp eye, as many of them are blink-and-you-miss-it.

If you're sharp-eyed, you might even catch the notorious Kallendresser, who cheekily reveals his bum at onlookers, at house number 24 in Alter Markt.

The figure of the Kallendresser, a Cologne dialect term for someone who answers the call of nature in a drain, has been a significant figure in Cologne since medieval times.

There are two more figures in front of the house – Tünnes and Schäl, both representing original Cologne jokesters with distinctive features like a big nose and crossed eyes.

📍Alter Markt 24, 50667 Köln

Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum is an unmissable stop on the Old Town tour of Cologne. Right off the bat, you're immersed in a world that combines history with deliciousness.

This museum not only lays out the journey and timeline of cocoa beans but also houses interactive screens for hands-on learning - it's a treat both intellectually and gastronomically!

A real cocoa tree nestled inside a terrarium brings you closer to understanding chocolate at its roots.

With its doors first opened to keen visitors in 1993, this popular attraction continues to enchant those looking to delve into the fascinating process behind crafting chocolates from scratch.

Best part? You get more than just knowledge here – tasting some exquisite chocolate tops off your enriching visit perfectly!

Hohenzollern Bridge

I visited the Hohenzollern Bridge in Cologne’s old town, Germany. The bridge touts three wave-like arches and is high-traffic - bustling with both pedestrians and trains all at once! On my stroll, I was wowed by the breathtaking backdrop of Cologne Cathedral.

The true charm of this structure lies within its railings cluster with love locks. Couples from far and wide attach padlocks as a symbol of their eternal bond – much to my delight, I even saw several couples actively participating in this romantic tradition during my walk!

Don't miss amazing views from the bridge that includes intricate architecture of Cologne's old town!

Exploring Cologne Old Town

Cologne Old Town One-day itinerary

My one-day itinerary to explore Cologne Old Town starts off early with a visit to the magnificent Cologne Cathedral. From there, it's onto Farina Perfume Shop, an olfactory treat for all.

Next on the list is a short trip across Rhine River and up to Hohenzollern Bridge for stunning views of the Old Town. Lunch takes me back towards Old Town where I savor local cuisine at Gaffel am Dom.

With my stomach full, an afternoon of exploring awaits as I tour fascinating landmarks like Wallraf-Richartz Museum and Groß St. Martin church before paying a mouthwatering visit to the Chocolate Museum in Rheinauhafen district.

If time allows, you will find me sipping some Kölsch beer or shopping in Neumarkt Galerie as my day comes to an end with dinner at Ludwig im Museum Restaurant & Café—a perfect way to wrap up this exploration into Cologne history and culture.

Walking Tours of Old Town

Walking tours through Cologne Old Town offer an intimate look into the city's ancient history and gothic architecture.

With routes winding pass landmarks such as the iconic Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge, each step takes you deeper into the city’s historical narrative.

The Roman-Germanic Museum displays breath-taking artifacts that include a meticulously maintained Roman mosaic. It is just one of several highlights along these self-guided trails.

If structured sightseeing sounds more appealing, there are organized options as well. For example, "Cologne Old City Guided Walking Tour” offers guided walks unveiling dense layers of local culture and history.

Cultural Experiences (breweries, Carnival, Christmas markets)

Immersing myself into Cologne's cultural experiences was an adventure like no other. I feasted my senses in revered breweries, sipping traditional German beer while engaging with the locals.

The city pulsated with life during the Carnival - a vibrant spectacle of colorful parades and flamboyant costumes that should not be missed by any traveler! As the season turned to winter, every street corner began to glisten under holiday cheer.

Christmas Markets sprung up everywhere; bustling hubs filled with festive decorations, live music enhancing the warm atmosphere, and wooden booths offering everything from mulled wine and local delicacies to charming handmade crafts.

My favorite was by far at the iconic Cologne Cathedral - amidst around 150 decorated stalls is where I experienced a true taste of this city's unique cultural traditions.

Best Restaurants in Cologne Old Town

Haxenhaus

Haxenhaus is not your ordinary eatery in Cologne's bustling Old Town. It exudes the charm of a 13th-century establishment, complete with an intriguing medieval framework program that elevates your dining experience.

Once a haven for sailors looking for work and a rest stop for pilgrims on their spiritual journey, Haxenhaus has always been deeply rooted in cologne’s history.

Today, it's renowned for dishing out traditional German cuisine like grilled pork hock and hearty homemade sausage – a testament to its culinary heritage.

The ambiance transports you back in time while indulging in local specialties, ensuring an authentic dining encounter every visit.

Address: Frankenwerft 19, 50667 Köln, Germany

Sion am Bahnhof

Tucked away in the heart of Altstadt-Nord, Cologne city center, Sion am Bahnhof brings an authentic experience to all food-loving travelers. This is where I enjoy German local specialties enveloped by quintessential Old Town charm.

If you're looking for a historic location filled with atmosphere and history, you don't want to miss this spot.

Their selection ranges from traditional German cuisine to classic pub food that pairs perfectly with their beer list.

The restaurant's reputation hinges on its traditional approach; they take pride in serving fresh and delicious meals complementing the range of beers sourced locally.

Address: Dompropst-Ketzer-Straße 1-9, 50667 Köln, Germany

Gaffel am Dom

Gaffel am Dom serves as a welcoming beacon in the heart of Cologne's Old Town.

It boasts its presence within an imposing seven-story neoclassical building dating back to history - the famous Deichmannhaus, enchanting visitors with its traditional yet modern pub atmosphere since 2008.

A visit to Gaffel am Dom involves indulging in their specialties such as the native Kolsch beer and immersing myself into their authentic brewing culture.

The place perfectly blends old and new making me part of Cologne’s incredible story every time I step inside this historic brewery.

Without a doubt, Gaffel am Dom is where heritage meets hospitality offering an unforgettable experience worth carrying home.

Address: Bahnhofsvorpl. 1, 50667 Köln, Germany

Früh am Dom

Nestled in the heart of Cologne's old town, just steps away from the magnificent cathedral, lies Früh am Dom. This vibrant eatery presents a fusion of tradition and comfort with its delightful both indoor and outdoor seating arrangements.

A quick peek at TripAdvisor will tell you why locals and tourists flock to Früh am Dom - it boasts a solid 4 out of 5-star rating!

No doubt, if good food served in an enchanting ambiance is your thing, then Früh am Dom pretty much ticks all boxes.

Address: Am Hof 12-18, 50667 Köln, Germany

Hänneschen und die Pfeffermühle

Hänneschen und die Pfeffermühle, nestled in the heart of Cologne's Old Town, provides a culinary experience that brings classic German dishes to life. 

The historic area surrounding this illustrious eatery offers loads of attractions and serves as the perfect contrast for this modern yet authentic German food hub.

Every bite I take mirrors decades of perfected recipes, evoking an unending love affair with traditional flavors.

 As I peruse through their menu - each dish packed with rich textures and vibrant notes, it unveils why this spot has become popular among city explorers like me looking for local dining options.

Settling in amidst a bustling crowd paints an vivid image about its significant role in shaping Cologne's culinary identity.

This is not just merely a restaurant; it encapsulates the soulful journey of tradition infused with innovation - an embodiment fitting perfectly into Cologne's charming landscape!

Address: Heumarkt 54, 50667 Köln, Germany

Unique Shopping Experiences in Cologne Old Town

Buy Cologne from Cologne

A trip to Cologne isn't complete without stopping by some of the city's unique shopping destinations.

Sure, you could buy a typical souvenir, but why not go for something that truly captures the essence of this magnificent old town?

Nestled amongst narrow cobblestone streets and charming architecture are numerous perfume shops where visitors can buy authentic cologne from Cologne.

One such haven is the Farina Perfume Shop - home to the world’s first Eau de Cologne.

This iconic fragrance was born here over 300 years ago! Enjoy perusing through an array of scents and immersing yourself in vivid olfactory experiences before selecting your favorite one as a lasting keepsake of your visit.

Schildergasse

Schildergasse stands as one of Cologne's most renowned shopping avenues, drawing a crowd of eager shoppers and sightseers alike.

This pedestrian-only street boasts a remarkable array of stores, encompassing well-known brands, charming boutiques, and quaint local souvenir shops.

Within its confines, you'll discover expansive department stores such as Galeria Kaufhof and distinctive German fashion boutiques like Peek & Cloppenburg.

Schildergasse beckons you to immerse yourself in a delightful blend of retail therapy and Cologne's scenic charm. Notably, the street is also home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the impressive Weltstadthaus.

Hohe Straße

Hohe Strasse, often dubbed Cologne's shopping haven, enjoys a prominent reputation.

Situated a short stroll west of the serene Rhine River, this thoroughfare stretches from the bustling Schildergasse in the south to the picturesque Wallrafplatz near the magnificent Cologne Cathedral in the north. It's a prominent landmark that's hard to overlook, especially for those exploring the city center.

The illustrious Hohe Strasse is renowned for its collection of luxury brands, including the likes of Michael Kors, Bvlgari, and Yves Rocher. Consequently, it stands out as one of the premier destinations for high-end shopping in Cologne.

Rhine River Cruises from Cologne

Embarking on a Rhine River cruise from Cologne provides an enchanting perspective of the city's Old Town. These riverboat tours glide past iconic landmarks, mixing historic charm with modern scenery.

I watched spellbound as the Gothic spires of the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral towered above me against an urban skyline.

The adventure continued as we passed under Hohenzollern Bridge, bustling with love lock-laden foot traffic overhead while affording spectacular views along both banks.

We also sailed by Rheinauhafen - a mix of contemporary architecture and industrial heritage revitalized into a vibrant cultural hub.

Cruises generally last for about an hour which was perfect for my tight schedule, and despite being popular among tourists, they never felt overcrowded thanks to a maximum group size of 300 people!

Every age can delight in this waterway journey offering scenic views and contrasting impressions between antiquity and progress; trust me when I say it’s a sightseeing cruise you don’t want to miss on your visit to Cologne!

Colgone Christmas Market

I make my way to the enchanting Cologne Christmas Market, set in the heart of the Old Town. The market streets are lined with traditional half-timber houses, imbuing an overwhelming sense of charming holiday spirit that reflects a genuine Christmas town ambiance.

It's hard not to feel awe-struck by this epicenter of seasonal festivity and German tradition.

Around me is a plethora of shopping options each more exciting than the other; handmade crafts, unique trinkets, delectable street food - you name it!

Amidst all these captivating sights lies the grand Cologne Cathedral market standing tall as it attracts thousands from across continents.

With over 200 vendors showcasing their wares every winter season, it's undoubtedly one of our city’s most popular markets!

If you fancy extending your stay at this Yuletide wonderland, there are plenty nearby hotels providing accommodation for visitors seeking complete immersion into this world-famous festive cheer.

Conclusion: Old Town of Cologne

Experiencing Cologne Old Town offers a blend of historical insight and contemporary pleasure. The narrow, cobblestone alleys come alive with cultural festivities, restaurants offering traditional food, and unique shopping experiences that make the visit memorable.

Don’t miss the pulse-quickening experience of stepping back in time when you stroll through this fascinating district!

Key Takeaways

• Cologne Old Town is a historic city in Germany. It has many attractions like the Cologne Cathedral, Roman-Germanic Museum and Farina Perfume Shop.
• The Wallraf - Richartz Museum displays art from medieval times to the 20th century. Groß St. Martin shows off German architecture while Rathaus shares 800 years of history.
• For chocolate lovers, there's the Chocolate Museum where you can learn about cocoa beans and taste delicious treats!

FAQs

1. What is the Cologne Old Town?

Cologne Old Town is a historic area located in the city of Cologne, Germany, known for its traditional buildings and charming streets.

2. What famous landmarks can I see in Cologne Old Town?

In Cologne Old Town, one can see iconic landmarks like Great St. Martin Church, Romanesque churches, and Historic Rathaus.

3. Are there good places to eat in Cologne old town?

Yes, there are many delightful restaurants and cafés offering both local and international cuisine throughout the old town of Cologne.

4. Is it possible to get guided tours around Cologne’s old town?

Absolutely! There are plenty of guided group or individual tours available that explore the historical areas of this German gem.