Cologne Old Town (Altstadt)
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Cultural Experience,
Good Place to Drink,
Good Place to Eat,
Popular with Locals,
Neighborhood
Old Town is in many ways, the heart and soul of the city. It's near the Köln Dom, surrounded by "the Ring," a ring of streets, botanical space, and promenades following the path of the old city's walls. Inside the ring and along the Rhine is a vibrant scene of bars, pubs, and restaurants. While it can get crowded, Old Town is known for its hustle and overall friendly vibe.
Tours of Old Town include tours of the Cathedral, a brewpub tour (expect to drink a lot of Kölsch), or a cruise on the Rhine. However, the best way to experience Old Town is on foot. Confident travelers may want to practice their German in this area; if you do, pay attention to speakers - Kölsch is a beer, but it's also an accent, both of which being native to Cologne. In Alter Markt Square, you'll find plenty of both, as brew pubs and bars are plentiful.
Beyond the rhythm of the bars and shops are seemingly innumerable small streets and alleys that wind through the old buildings. It is sectioned into several squares, providing visitors with ample opportunities to explore and soak in Cologne's culture.
Latest Reviews
Review by Roman R, January 2013
Doing what: Cologne Rhine River Christmas Afternoon Cruise
A nice two hour cruise along Rhine river with lots of Advent time delights. Maybe it is not the best time to enjoy surrounding views (as it comes dark early in December), however it still worth visiting to feel that wonderful inimitable atmosphere of the coming holiday!
Review by Ann V, January 2013
Doing what: Cologne Rhine River Christmas Afternoon Cruise
A very enjoyable cruise, we were greeted by the crew and shown to excellent window seats with a table reserved just for us. Drinks (ie coffee, hot chocolate or tea) arrived together with delicious hot cherry waffles and cream, St.Nickalaus came on-board and the children sang German Xmas songs to music.
Review by David P, January 2013
Doing what: Cologne Rhine River Christmas Afternoon Cruise
We had a great trip the ambience was fantastic coffee and waffle great
And enjoyed the night views
Singer was good bringing Christmas songs to us
Practical Info
Get on the bus! If you're tired of walking, excursion buses (actually trams) will take passengers from Cathedral Square to the Rheinauhafen, the Chocolate Museum and back.
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