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Cologne

Cologne is a city in Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia state, with a long history dating back to Roman times. As one of Germany's largest cities, it's well worth exploring on foot at a leisurely pace.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Cologne
Gateway airport
Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)
Best season
May–Oct
Time zone
Europe/Berlin
Sights covered
45 places

Sights worth seeing

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Cologne Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral is a Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral that stands as a symbol of Cologne, Germany, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of Germany's most famous landmarks, drawing countless visitors every day.

Hohenzollern Bridge

Views & landmarks

Hohenzollern Bridge

This bridge spans the Rhine in Cologne, Germany. Destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt, it is now open only to trains and pedestrians.

Wallraf–Richartz Museum

Museums & galleries

Wallraf–Richartz Museum

An art museum in central Cologne showcasing masterpieces from the Middle Ages through the early 20th century. As one of Cologne's leading museums, it's highly recommended for art lovers.

Cologne Central Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Cologne Central Mosque

Germany's largest mosque, completed in 2017, can hold up to 4,000 worshippers. It's a great place to see modern Islamic architecture up close.

Museum Ludwig

Museums & galleries

Museum Ludwig

Museum Ludwig is a museum of modern art in Cologne, with a collection spanning Pop Art, Surrealism, and more. It also holds one of Europe's largest Picasso collections, alongside works by Warhol and Lichtenstein.

Romano-Germanic Museum

Museums & galleries

Romano-Germanic Museum

The Romano-Germanic Museum is an archaeological museum built directly above Roman ruins in Cologne. In the basement, the Dionysus mosaic and a Roman-era road remain preserved in their original location, offering a unique chance to view the ruins themselves.

St. Gereon's Basilica

Temples & religious sites

St. Gereon's Basilica

A Roman Catholic basilica in Cologne dedicated to St. Gereon. It was designated a minor basilica in 1920.

St. Pantaleon's Church

Temples & religious sites

St. Pantaleon's Church

One of Cologne's twelve Romanesque churches, this venerable church dates back to the 10th century. It holds special historical significance as the burial place of Holy Roman Empress Theophanu, among others.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

Jan
Feb
Mar
10° Apr
14° May
19° Jun
19° Jul
20° Aug
17° Sep
13° Oct
Nov
Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Cologne Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Where to stay

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