Cologne city break highlights
The Cathedral
Probably the most noteworthy historic site in the city is its enormous cathedral, which is almost 145 metres long and one of the largest Gothic churches in Europe. Although work began on this structure in the mid-13th century, it was not completed until more than 600 years later, in 1880, when it held the prestigious title of the tallest building in the world. The building, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, offers spectacular views of the city centre from its 98-metre-high viewing deck, although the church's towers are nearly 160 metres high. A weekend in Cologne would not be complete without taking in this architectural masterpiece.
Old Town and iconic bridge
A city break in Cologne isn’t complete without wandering through its charming Old Town. Nestled along the Rhine, this area is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, quaint alleys, and inviting beer halls serving traditional Kölsch beer. Don’t miss the chance to stroll across the Hohenzollern Bridge, famous for its thousands of love locks left by visitors worldwide. From here, you’ll get stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to capture memorable moments.
What to see in Cologne
Museum Ludwig
If you're a fan of Warhol and Picasso, don't forget to visit the Museum Ludwig, which opened in 1976 and is adjacent to the cathedral. This venue also houses many artworks from the renowned New York-born pop artist Roy Lichtenstein, and awards the Wolfgang Hahn Prize to one international artist each year at the Art Cologne fair.
The Romano-Germanic Museum
Opened in 1946, the Romano-Germanic Museum has many intriguing Roman remains and has been based at its current location, next to the cathedral, since the 1970s. Here, you can observe ancient mosaics, the remnants of an ancient villa, and many other preserved architectural remains that are nearly 2,000 years old. A weekend in Cologne offers the perfect chance to explore these fascinating historical gems.
