Cologne is an important German city and one that I’ve had on my list for a long time now. Since, similarly to Mainz, it is a 2.5h drive from Luxembourg, I decided to finally visit it over the weekend.
Although I have mixed feelings, here are my Top 5 things to-do in Cologne:
1. Ludwig Museum
Wonderful modern art Museum! Start with the top floor where you’ll see a number of Great Masters, including the whole room dedicated to Picasso himself. Actually, Museum Ludwig has one of the largest Pablo’s collections in Europe. You will also find Salvador Dali painting and Giacometti sculptures in one room – something that made a tremendous impression on me:
Second floor has a solid collection of Pop Art with Warhol, Lichtenstein and others. Overall the Museum is accessible, not so crowded and located close to the Cathedral. For me personally, this spot saves Cologne 🙂
Address: Heinrich-Böll-Platz, 50667 Köln, Germany & https://www.museum-ludwig.de/en.html
2. Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral is among the tallest churches in the world and undoubtedly the central point of Cologne. It is 157m high and is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, it is Germany’s most visited landmark, attracting circa 20k visitors a day. That says it all, doesn’t it?
I recommend having a drink with the view on the Cathedral – see the featured picture 🙂
Address: Domkloster 4, 50667 Köln, Germany& https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cologne_Cathedral
3. Brühl Castle
Only 30min drive from Cologne and with great train links as well, this is a must-do and actually even better than Cologne itself in my, movingisliving-like opinion.
I’ve been thoroughly impressed by the Castle, its opulence and wonderful design. It’s a small version of Versailles, certainly not as famous but also not as crowded. Still, it does rank among Germany’s top place to visit and is protected by the international “Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural heritage”.
The Gardens are also wonderful and make for a perfect summer stroll. Each takes about an hour, so not so heavy on the time. Certainly a must for everyone visiting Cologne and I’d actually say it’s worth for everyone being close to the region.
Address: Parkplatz, Max-Ernst-Allee, 50321 Brühl, Germany & https://www.schlossbruehl.de/en/
4. Hilton
Location, location, location. This Hilton is a 5-star property located in the very centre of town, only 2-minute walk from the Cologne Cathedral. I actually had a view on the Cathedral as well, which was a nice touch 🙂
Apart from the location, it also provides excellent service, including valet parking, upgrade to a better room and basically covering the smallest need of yours – which makes for a proper 5-star hotel.
This Hilton serves great breakfast as well; one that actually stands out from my recent Hilton-tour. The only alternative hotel I’d consider in Cologne is the Hyatt, which is along the river. Let me know if you’ve been!
Address: Marzellenstraße 13-17, 50668 Köln, Germany & https://hilton-cologne.colognehotel.net/en/
5. Kuchi Mami
Not the most commercial of places, but very good quality food! I was quite amazed how tasty it was and the presentation was even better, have a look:
On top of the great food quality, you will also get wonderful attentive service. Certainly recommended and actually very correctly priced as well. Hidden gem!
Address: Komoedienstrasse 43, 50667 Cologne, Germany & https://kuchimami.eatbu.com/
Despite my mixed feelings related to the overall energy and architecture of Cologne, I believe it’s worth the visit when adding the Brühl Castle (#3) to the trip. The Ludwig Museums is wonderful and a must-do and the Cathedral is the most visited landmark in Germany, so again – for a short trip – it’s good!
I don’t think I will be back any time soon, but do let me know whether you’ve been to Cologne and how you like it. I’ve head a lot of great opinions, so I look forward to hearing some of you defending the city 🙂
After a break in frequency of posts, I will be writing more, with some exciting guest blog-posts as well. Watch out this space as well as the Instagram account!
Safe travels,
MJ
PS. Get 10% back on your hotel/apartment booking on booking.com using my code: https://www.booking.com/s/57_6/7793bab0