An afternoon in Cologne is sometimes all you get. I’ve been blessed to visit Germany many times over the years. And while I’ve been to Cologne on several occasions, I’ve never had an extended period in the city. Sometimes you only get a few hours after the business day ends. If you happen to have a similar opportunity, let me give you some suggestions to make the most of the opportunity.
Quick History.
The first settlement established around 38 BCE. It was possibly on a Tuesday at 3PM (OK, that’s a bit of a stretch). Cologne has had an important role throughout its existence, from the Roman empire though out the Middle Ages to present day.
Cologne had a major of its role supporting the German industrial complex in the years leading up to WWII, and was virtually destroyed by the Allies. As a result, the city is very contemporary and modern due to the rebuilding efforts. That said the city does have some interesting historical landmarks in the city center. Whether this be the majestic Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) or Roman ruins.
For the scent aficionados, it is world famous as the origin and namesake of Eau de Cologne.
Present day Cologne is the largest city in the German state Nord-Rhein Westphalia and is Germany’s fourth largest city with a population of about 1.1 million.
Cologne is frequent stop for River Cruises companies such as Viking and ANA on their Rhein itineraries.
My latest trip to Cologne
I spent a rather rainy afternoon in Cologne this past September. And while it doesn’t allow for the greatest photography, it did allow us to spend some time in some of its great attractions located right in the city center.
Where to stay in Cologne
We stayed at the Hilton Cologne which is conveniently located around the corner from the Hauptbahnhof (train station) and a block away from the Dom Platz (Cathedral square). It was a very nice hotel with a small convention facility. Rooms were clean and comfortable. Impressive gym facility.
What to do in Cologne
Dom Platz
Dom Platz is located in the center of the city and has several points of interest. These include the Cathedral, Museum Ludwig, and the Roman-German Museum. The latter museum may be relocating, as it was closed during our visit. If you have a limited window of time to visit, these allow you to get a really awesome experience without much travel.
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
This Cathedral is a spectacular example of Gothic Architecture and took 632 years to build. The builders laid the foundation stone in the year 1248, and construction finished on August 14, 1880. It is the 3rd tallest church in the world and the crown jewel of the city. The Cathedral is located in the city center and directly overlooks the Hauptbahnhof.
This is a great place to visit on an afternoon in Cologne, especially if it is raining. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated to support the upkeep of the Cathedral.
Museum Ludwig
This gallery has an amazing collection of modern art, pop art and surrealism and houses the largest collection of Picassos in Europe. Collection includes works from Warhol, Dali and Roy Liechtenstein.
Entry cost is only 11 Euro for adults.
Picasso even did a portrait of an Old Man with Hat…who would have known? I don’t think it looks much like me though.
Alter Markt (Old Market)
Not far from the Dom Platz is the Alter Markt. The Alter Markt has many clubs, restaurants, and tourist attractions. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon in Cologne barhopping, if that’s of interest for you. This area of town is close to the river and the docks for the river cruises so it’s not uncommon to see excursion groups walking around.
If you are in town when there is an FC Köln soccer game on the schedule, the clubs in this area are packed and a lot of fun.
Gross St. Martin Church
This beautiful church is located just off the Alter Markt square. In an example of the age of the city, this church was built on top of Roman warehouses. As with most of the city, the church was destroyed in WWII. When the city re-built the church, they rebuilt in the Rhenish style from the period 1150-1250 AD.
Cologne Tourism – Welcome to the Rhine metropolis Cologne (cologne-tourism.com)
Just below the Gross St Martin is the Fischbrunnen, that offers a great shot of the Church behind some colorful older buildings.
Shopping
Shopping is not really my thing, but I would be remiss if I didn’t comment of the broad pedestrian zone around the city center. Plenty of boutiques and luxury stores. And of course, places to purchase the Eau de Cologne.
Beer
While shopping isn’t, beer (good beer) is kind of my thing. Germany is historically renowned for its beer, and Cologne has its own page in that history. And while your first thought of Germany and beer drifts to thoughts of Oktoberfest and Munich, Cologne has its own style of brewing yielding Kölsch, a very light and refreshing top fermented beer. Kölsch style beer has been brewed since the 1700’s, but it wasn’t until 1918 that a beer was marketed as “Kölsch”. In Cologne and the local region, there are five breweries I’ve experienced, Gaffel, Sion, Früh, Reissdorf, and Dom. All have slight variances in their flavor, but all are tasty.
Kölsch factoids
Interesting fact about Kölsch is that it has received a status with the EU called Protected Geographical Identification (PGI). This statute stipulates that Kölsch sold in any country within the EU, either must be completely, or partially, produced in Cologne. The statute applies to all food products that have an important cultural impact. Take Champagne for example; a sparkling wine can only be labeled “Champagne” if it originates from that particular region in France.
Kölsch is served in a 20-centiliter glass called a “stange”, and it is served by a waiter called a Köbes. Köbes bring the Stange on a circular tray called a Kranz (wreath).
Now for the warning. If you have ever been in a Brazilian steakhouse, you understand how the Köbes operate. If your glass is empty, and don’t put your coaster on the glass, Köbes will refill your drink and put a mark on your coaster.
Köbes will only stop when you put your coaster over your glass. Placing the coaster on your glass indicates that you are done drinking or taking a break. You may be surprised to see your bar tab, as well as your sobriety level, if you don’t pay attention. Kölsch is an incredibly light beer that goes down easy. It is easy to lose count how much you’ve had to drink as the glasses are considerably smaller than the traditional half/full liter. There is a risk of overindulgence that is enhanced when blessed with great company and conversation. Time flies and beer flows.
You’ve been warned! My job is done here. Prost!
Where to enjoy Kölsch
All the breweries have their own brewery affiliated restaurants, and of course distribute to clubs and restaurants in the city.
Near the Dom Platz I do recommend Früh am Dom. Great food to accompany the beer. The Wirtshaus has a great ambience, just what an American business traveler/tourist would expect.
By the way…Starbucks is located around the corner if you need an espresso to help sober up.
As I look back at this, I realize I spent a lot of time on Kölsch. There is a lot more to do in Cologne than drink the beer…and I swear I don’t have a problem.
Other things to do during an afternoon in Cologne.
If you have a little more time in the city there are many other sites to see. I mentioned it above, but the city tourism cite is a fantastic resource to investigate the “what to do’s” in the city.
If you are planning a trip to Cologne and have an evening to build around. There is a great facility along the river, and near the Hauptbahnhof called the Musical Dome, www.musical-dome.de. I caught a production of “We Will Rock You!” there in the mid-2000’s. I found the story line a bit kooky, but the music was Queen and very well performed. The theater was very nice.
Hop On – Hop off Tour
Bus tours around the city. Nearest loading point near the Dom Platz is located between Gross St. Martin and the River.
River Cruises
There are a number of Cruise operators that offer 1- and two-hour cruises along the Rhein.
Chocolate Museum
The Lindt Chocolate Museum Located about a mile from the Hautpbahnhof down the Rhein.
I hope this provides some ideas for you if you ever happen to have a free afternoon in Cologne…or longer. Until next Time!
Travel Well. Pursue experiences!
O.M.I.A.H.