There are 2,000 years of history in Cologne, and visitors here will find everything from Roman towers to Gothic churches to fine examples of modern architecture. Cologne has a variety of museums, too—check out the Museum of Applied Art, the Museum Ludwig and, if you have a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Museum. Be forewarned, though—the gift shop at the latter will utterly ruin your diet.
This zoo has more animals than any other zoological park in Germany and boasts an aquarium and the world's largest elephant park in northern Europe. Open 365 days a year; in the summer hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
This intimate church includes intricately designed wooden doors from the 11th century on its outside and wooden carvings depicting the life of Christ on its inside.
Get a whiff of the place where Eau de Cologne was born. Learn about perfume essences and attractions and let your nose lead you thorough history. - We highly recommend booking your tickets prior to your visit. -
This famous Romanesque cathedral, re-opened in 1985 following extreme damage during World War II, takes second billing behind only the Dom as Cologne's most prominent religious structure.
A rice storage hut and and a full Javanese gamelan greet you at this unique museum that aims to unite humanity across cultures and gives visitors an opportunity to explore their own prejudices and preconceived notions. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and the first Thursday of the month until 10 p.m.
This bridge over the Rhine River can be crossed by foot or by train. Since 2008 padlocks have adorned a fence on the bridge, affixed by couples as a sign of love and commitment.
This art museum houses a diverse collection that includes everything from Dali to Warhol to one of the world's largest Picasso collections. Open Tuesday to Sunday (including public holidays) from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., every first Thursday of the month until 10 p.m.
"This place is temporarily closed." This skyscraper offers commanding views of the Cologne Cathedral and invites visitors to look at exhibitions, eat at its Mongolian barbecue restaurant and take in views of the surrounding area from its Panorama Observatory. Entrance to the building is free, access to the viewing platform costs 3 euros. Open Oct. 1 to April 30, Monday-Friday from noon-6 p.m.,...
Cacti and plant houses make up this garden, which dates from the 1800s, along the Rhine River. Gardens are open 8 a.m. until dusk daily. Plant houses are open October to March 10 a.m.-4 p.m., April to September 10 a.m.-6 p.m.