Cologne, a beautiful city located on the banks of the Rhine River in Germany, is a must-visit destination for those embarking on a Rhine River cruise. This vibrant city is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and friendly locals, making it the perfect stop along your river cruise journey.
Quick Introduction to Cologne
Cologne, also known as Köln in German, is the fourth-largest city in Germany and is famous for its impressive Gothic cathedral, the Kölner Dom. This iconic landmark towers over the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to its stunning architecture, Cologne is also home to a variety of museums, galleries, and vibrant neighbourhoods waiting to be explored.
Sights to Visit in Cologne
Cologne Cathedral: One of Germany’s most iconic landmarks, the Kölner Dom is a must-visit while in the city. This stunning Gothic cathedral is home to the Shrine of the Three Kings and offers panoramic views of Cologne from its towers.
Hohenzollern Bridge: Known for its love locks, the Hohenzollern Bridge is a pedestrian bridge that spans the Rhine River. Take a stroll across the bridge and enjoy views of the river and the city skyline.
Old Town: Explore the quaint streets of Cologne’s Old Town, where you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Be sure to visit the Alter Markt square, home to the Old Town Hall and the Heumarkt square with its lively bars and restaurants.
Things to Do in Cologne
Visit a Brewery: Cologne is famous for its beer, so why not visit one of the city’s many breweries for a tasting session? Learn about the brewing process and sample some of Cologne’s best brews.
Shop at the Belgian Quarter: The Belgian Quarter is known for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Spend an afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs and enjoying a coffee at one of the district’s hip cafes.
Best Time to Visit Cologne
The best time to visit Cologne depends on your preferences. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is the ideal time to visit. For a magical holiday experience, plan your trip during the Christmas season. The city comes alive with Christmas markets, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts, sip on mulled wine, and sample delicious holiday treats. The twinkling lights and festive atmosphere make Cologne a perfect winter wonderland.
Discover Cologne on a Rhine River Cruise
11 Days | Cologne – Nuremberg
Immerse yourself in the beauty and traditions of this world-famously scenic region, on our longer river cruise showcasing the very best of the Middle Rhine.
Discover spectacular cities boasting a hoard of UNESCO cathedrals and ancient castles, and savour gentle vine-clad landscapes awash with timber-framed towns soaked in medieval charm.
Click here for more details.
Get in touch today if you’re keen on experiencing Cologne as part of your Rhine river cruise. You won’t regret it!
Call (0800 471 4754) or send us an email to discuss your cruise preferences and we will do the rest.
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About Christine Foulds
I’m originally from Germany and traveling has always been a part of my family’s DNA. Over the past 20 years, I’ve lived and worked in 5 different countries (USA, Austria, Russia, Peru and the UK) and learnt to speak 3 foreign languages (Russian and Spanish are getting a bit rusty though). I thoroughly enjoy working with travel enthusiasts who like to explore and visit new parts of the world as much as I do.
View all posts by Christine Foulds