Hello everyone, today we at Mikos Store will tell you about Cologne, the fourth largest city in Germany, located on the banks of the Rhine River. Known for its history, culture and dynamic lifestyle, this city is an attractive destination for both tourists and locals. The Cologne Cathedral has become the symbol of the city and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city also has a cultural richness with art galleries, museums, shopping malls and various festivals.
Transportation from Cologne Bonn Airport to the City Center
Cologne Bonn Airport is located approximately 15 kilometres from Cologne city centre and there are several ways to get to the city centre:
Train
There are regular train services from the airport train station to Cologne city centre and other surrounding areas. The S-Bahn (lines S13 or S19) and RE (Regional Express) trains provide fast and convenient transportation from the airport to the city centre.
Bus
There are also bus services from the airport to the city centre and surrounding areas. Buses can be a good alternative, especially at night when train services are less frequent.
Taxi
Taking a taxi from the airport to the city centre is also an option. Taxis are easily available at the airport exit. Taxi fares are reasonable due to the proximity to the city centre.
Car rental
There are many car rental companies at the airport. If you want to explore Cologne and the surrounding area on your own schedule, you can rent a car.
Festivals in Cologne
Cologne has a vibrant cultural atmosphere with various festivals throughout the year. These festivals reflect the cultural diversity and vitality of the city. Here are some of the important festivals you should attend in Cologne:
Cologne Carnival
The Cologne Carnival is the city's most famous and colourful event. Held every year in February or March, this festival welcomes millions of visitors. During the carnival, the streets are filled with music, dancing and costumed parades.
Cologne Christmas Markets
Cologne is famous for its charming Christmas markets, which are held throughout the city in December. Traditional handicrafts, hot drinks and sweets are among the products you can find at these markets. A visit to Cologne is especially recommended during this time when the city takes on a magical atmosphere.
Cologne Christopher Street Day
Held each July, Cologne Gay Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe. Filled with colourful marches, concerts and parties, this festival celebrates diversity and equality.
Cologne Film Festival
The Cologne Film Festival, held each October, focuses on international and local films. The festival offers a variety of film screenings, workshops, and meetings with artists.
Cologne Music Festival
The Cologne Music Festival showcases the city's musical diversity by offering concerts from a variety of musical genres. The festival is usually held during the summer months and features local and international artists.
Places to Visit in Cologne
Cologne offers a perfect blend of historical and modern attractions. There are many places to visit and see in the city. Here are some of the must-see places in Cologne:
Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
This magnificent Gothic cathedral, the symbol of Cologne, is one of the largest churches in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral fascinates visitors with its impressive architecture and the city views from its tower.
Old Town (Altstadt)
The Old Town, the historic center of Cologne, offers visitors a pleasant walk with its narrow streets, colorful buildings and historical structure. The Old Town includes important structures such as the old market square Alter Markt and the historic town hall Rathaus.
Hohenzollern Bridge
This famous bridge over the Rhine River is open to both train and pedestrian traffic. Another interesting feature of the bridge are the thousands of love locks hanging from its railings.
Walking Along the Rhine
The promenades along the Rhine River offer beautiful views of Cologne. There are many cafés, restaurants and parks along the river. Boat tours on the river are also a popular activity.
Romano-Germanic Museum
An ideal place for those wishing to explore Cologne's Roman and Germanic past, this museum displays ancient artefacts, mosaics and historical relics.
Ludwig Museum
Focusing on modern and contemporary art, this museum includes works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein. The museum is a must-see stop in Cologne for art lovers.
What to Eat in Cologne?
Cologne, like other regions of Germany, has a culinary culture with its own unique flavors. The traditional dishes and local flavors you can try in the city will allow you to discover the gastronomy world of Cologne. Here are some dishes to taste in Cologne:
Himmel un Ääd (Heaven and Earth)
This traditional Cologne dish consists of sausages or bacon served with a puree of apples and potatoes. The combination of apples (heaven) and potatoes (earth) explains where the name comes from.
Kolsch
Kölsch, a type of beer unique to Cologne, is an integral part of the city's gastronomic identity. This light and refreshing beer is a favorite drink of locals and tourists alike.
Sauerbraten
This dish is a classic of German cuisine, prepared by cooking marinated beef for a long time. In Cologne, you can find restaurants serving this dish with mashed potatoes and red cabbage.
Reibekchen
Reibekuchen is a type of potato fritters, made with a mixture of grated potatoes, onions and spices, fried in oil and served with apple sauce. It is usually served with apple sauce and is especially popular during the winter months.
Mettbrotchen
A type of sandwich made with minced pork, onion and spices spread on bread. Mettbrötchen is a popular snack among the locals.
Cologne Nightlife
Cologne’s nightlife is vibrant with bars, pubs and clubs in areas like Zülpicher Straße and Belgisches Viertel. There are traditional German pubs and beer gardens in the Old Town, alternative music venues in the Ehrenfeld district, and venues for dancing to different genres in the city’s various clubs. Popular clubs like Bootshaus and Elektroküche are ideal for electronic music lovers, while live music performances can be enjoyed at venues like Stadtgarten and Blue Shell. Cologne’s dynamic nightlife reflects the city’s cultural diversity and energy, offering entertainment options to suit all tastes.
If you go to Cologne one day, don't forget to wear your Mikos Store bag, we wish you a pleasant day. You can also take a look at our article called Switzerland Travel Guide .
