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Best things to do and see in Cologne

Like much of Germany during WWII, Cologne’s metropolitan area was almost completely destroyed by the intense warfare that took place there. Today, it is a cultural and economic center for Germany’s Rhineland region. When you discover this city on the Rhine, you will be delighted by the mix of modern and old-world architecture that you can discover with the help of a local guide from GuruWalk in the morning, afternoon, or evening.

If you want to get to know all the most iconic spots in Cologne, try a guided free walking tour . This way, you can get oriented with the streets and places from the first day and find all the things you sometimes don’t get the chance to when you are alone in a new city. Choose from a selection of different routes online that feature the popular landmarks like Cologne Cathedral-the UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Gereon’s Basilica, its Old Town, St. Maria Im Kapitol Church, or the Ludwig Museum and some of the lesser-known ones like the pubs in the Belgian Quarter, the Kolumba Museum, a chilling stop at the NS Documentation Center Museum, or a visit to the Fragrance Museum where you can learn about this city’s name and claim to fame. 

All of the tours on GuruWalk’s platform have been rated and reviewed by other people like you. You can browse through the opinions and find the best trip for you, and choose from several different languages . Other cities with guided tours that may be of interest to you are Hamburg, Berlin, Munich or Nuremberg. 

Others cities to visit after Cologne

Free walking tour near cologne.

• Free walking tour in London
• Free walking tour in Prague
• Free walking tour in Copenhagen
• Free walking tour in Rotterdam
• Free walking tour in Ghent
• Free walking tour in Bruges
• Free walking tour in Strasbourg
• Free walking tour in Nuremberg
• Free walking tour in Zürich
• Free walking tour in Düsseldorf
• Free walking tour in Leuven
• Free walking tour in Delft

Classic Cologne Free Walking Tour

• The Dark Side of the Dom

The Legendary Kölsch Tour

• Kiosk Crawl – Free Tour
• Neighbourhood Tours
• Private Tours
• Recommendations
• Cologne Travel Guides and Blogs
• Tour Reviews

Our city tours through Cologne

Our free walking tour is the best city tour in Cologne according to Google and TripAdvisor . What is our secret? It is very simple, we love our city! And we love sharing that feeling with you.

A variety of city tours

We offer many different kinds of tours: explore Cologne’s main sights, breweries, neighbourhoods, history and the dark side of our city with us.

A local experience

With us, you will get to know the tourist attractions of Cologne but also discover local places. Our guides will recommend you the best restaurants, bars and venues.

We offer our tours in English, German and Spanish. For private city tours in other languages please send us a request and we will see what we can do!

On our free walking tour, you will get to know the Cologne way of life. You will see the main sights and learn a lot about the “Cologne feeling”. Why is the number 11 a thing here? What is the story behind the famous carnival? Why does Cologne not fulfill German stereotypes? We can’t wait to welcome you in our city. After the tour, you decide for yourself what it was worth to you.

On Freewalk’s Brewery tour you’ll learn everything there is to know about a beer that belongs to Cologne, the Kölsch. On our beer tour we’ll explore multiple breweries, try the most popular Kölsch brands, get to know the unique waiters who bring us a beer that can only be brewed in our city and much more! Come explore Cologne’s most famous and favorite export with us!

The Cologne Kiosk Crawl

Want to access the vibrant, drinking, nightlife of Cologne? We've got a key that will help open the city's pub-hopping culture that has a very Cologne twist. Get to know our favorite style of night-out in our neighborhood on an evening of games and drinks while meeting new people along the way.

Dark Side of the Dom Free Tour

As the sun goes down and the night takes over, join us in exploring the dark side of Cologne's medieval and recent past. Are you into stories about murderers, witches and mayhem? You’ll explore the gloomy side of Cologne’s past focusing on the city’s Medieval history. Be prepared for the pure misery of living in Medieval Times.

Mülheim Walking Tour

Cologne's Northern, Schäl Sick Neighbor, Mülheim. A cultural melting pot full of history, pride, independent vibes and undiscovered beauty for so many on the other side of the river. Come get to know this perpetually up-and-coming Neighborhood with us on our walking tour of this once independent city! Learn what it means to be from Müllem.

Südstadt Walking Tour

It's maybe the most typical Cologne district! Südstadt (“the South City”) attracts with rustic pubs, trendy nightclubs and beautiful apartment buildings. In summer, you feel like you're in Italy and in winter you can find refuge in the cosy cafés. On our tour, we will visit squares that aren't squares, explore how this district is connected to John Lennon and so much more..

Nippes Walking Tour

On our Nippes tour, you’ll learn about the history of illegal brewing culture in the district while you enjoy a completely legal kiosk beer. Discover the beautiful parks, the famous pubs and historic restaurants. Relax with locals in Schill Square, explore a Golden Cabbage (yes, we mean it), and get to know one of the proudest and greenest neighborhoods in Cologne.

Agnesviertel Walking Tour

The Agnesviertel arose around the second biggest church in Cologne: the beautiful St. Agnes. Named after a woman who was deeply loved by her husband, we’ll walk through the neighbourhood whose beauty matches the name of its romantic roots. From the history of our favorite primate, “Petermann” and its connection to the Cologne Zoo, to the most beautiful streets in Cologne, get to know our District of Love.

Ehrenfeld Walking Tour

From working-class district to the most popular neighbourhood for students: hip, hipper, Ehrenfeld. The tour starts at the impressive DITIB Central Mosque. From there we’ll discover the colourful small shops, look back into the past when the district still used to be an independent city and enjoy today's Ehrenfeld with its street art, food places and bars.

Belgian Quarter Walking Tour

The Belgian Quarter is one of the most popular districts in Cologne. Old and young, Cologne tradition and international flair are combined with trendy pubs, clubs, concept stores, art, or just the kiosk at the corner. On our tour from the roman “Via Belgica” to the “green belt” you’ll experience the multi-faceted district and its history.

Cologne’s Free Christmas Market Tour

Cologne’s Christmas Markets is a must during the holiday season. Explore some of Cologne’s biggest and most historic markets with us. Experience the history that made these markets what they are. Find out what to drink and eat (and what not to…) and learn everything there is to know about what makes Christmas Time so special in Cologne.

How about a fun and entertaining introduction to Cologne and its people? Or have some Kölsch in Cologne’s breweries on our Legendary Kölsch Tour ? Are you more into ghosts, murderers and mayhem? Check out The Dark Side of the Dom tour .   How about just a night out?  Try our Kiosk Crawl ! There are also the Cologne neighbourhoods with their very individual histories and locals. Cologne is a city to explore with your eyes and with your heart! What we do is sightseeing off the tourist trails.

Our guides are all locals with heart and soul who fell in love with Cologne in their individual ways. Hence, we all have different stories to tell when it comes to our beloved city. We top our personal experiences off with the historical background that makes the city what it is today. Our tours are a mix of a kiosk tour, a stroll with friends and an engaging look into Cologne’s past. We are looking forward to seeing you on our walks!

Rude Bastards Tour of ® Cologne

Rude, Fun and Educational since 2013

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2.5 Hours
• Map Marker Location: Cologne , Cologne - Köln , Colonia

Learn about the history of Cologne as you visit the city’s iconic landmarks.

• Belgian quarter
• Party locations
• Hahnentor (Gate)
• St. Kolumbia
• Old town and more

***Please book for free to guarantee a spot. Tours require minimum 3 guests to operate. Guides will only wait 10 minutes max past the starting time**

Groups of 1-7

Groups of 8-15, walking in köln like a rude local.

This Cologne walking tour stands out among many other guided tours offered in this great city – like a middle finger!  This is an English language walking tour that covers the historic part of Cologne. We guarantee it will be full of bad language, bad-taste jokes and, yes, of course, irreverent history lessons! 

The guide of course shares insight into the history of Cologne and gives you great tips on the best places to visit, eat, and drink. But more than that, expect to learn a lot about the city while you hear fun stories and have a great time. No snowflakes allowed!

The walking tour goes through major points of interest such as the Cologne Cathedral also called the Cologne Dom, the Belgian Quarter, the Hahnentor Gate, St. Kolumbia and Cologne’s old town , talking about the rich history of medieval Cologne and its famous landmarks. Be prepared to hear an uncensored account of the city’s role in German history.

We also stop near the LGBTQ district and have a more flexible look at the outskirts of the cities, and introduce you to all the party locations in this musical city. Cologne’s rich musical history and its deep influence on modern electronic and techno music make the city a music lovers’ delight!

If you want a more regular (but also fun) sort of tour of the city, do check out our Funky Fun Walking Tour .

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The original Free Tour, a great way to orientate yourself in the city

The SANDEMANs FREE Tour gives you a perfect introduction to the city and takes you to some of its most popular attractions. You will not only be shown the city’s main landmarks, but you will also learn about its history in a fun and entertaining way. Discover the city’s secrets with a passionate local guide!

Join the FREE Tour on the first day of your visit to make the most of your stay. Your guide will give you tips and recommendations on places to visit, things to do and the best places to eat and drink so that you can experience the city like a true local!

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16 Best Free Things to Do in Cologne, Germany

RilindH-RooM / Getty Images

If you are traveling to Cologne , Germany’s fourth-largest city and one of the oldest in the country, you'll have a chance to see awe-inspiring medieval Gothic architecture, stunning cathedrals, and beautiful views of the Rhine river. While many of the famous attractions charge admission fees, like the Museum Ludwig and the Cologne Zoo, there are fantastic activities in this city that won't cost you a single euro . Sniff scents at a historic perfume museum, stroll the cobblestone alleys of Old Town, or go window-shopping on Schildergasse , a street dating back to ancient Roman times. Lastly, visit the city in the winter to enjoy a bustle of activity at the street festival during Carnival.

Take in the View from the Köln Triangle

VJDora / Getty Images

The Köln Triangle (Cologne Triangle) is to Cologne as the Empire State Building is to New York. While its height pales in comparison to the Big Apple's famed building (the Cologne Triangle has only 29 floors, whereas the Empire State Building has 102), it's still an impressive part of Cologne's skyline. Head up the 565 steps to the viewing platform (during the warmer part of the year) to take in a bird's eye view of the famous Cologne Cathedral, the Hohenzollernbrücke in the distance, the Rhein River, and Old Town.

Experience Carnival in Cologne

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Every year the city of Cologne hosts Carnival in Cologne, a seasonal celebration of the culture of the city and the spirit of the holidays. It starts on November 11 (specifically at 11 minutes past 11 a.m.), and then breaks for Advent and Christmas, before picking up again after January 6. During this time, the city hosts numerous events, like art shows and performances (that typically charge admission), while also displaying seasonal sights that are free of charge. Check out the Cathedral all lit up for the holidays, or stroll a street fair that takes place between Fat Thursday and Ash Wednesday (also called "the crazy days").

Stroll the Harbor District

Jorg Greuel / Getty Images

Rheinauhafen, the harbor district in Cologne, is among one of the most modern locations in the city. Here, modern architecture blends with historic old-town charm. Check out the newly restored Rheinauhafen waterfront complex, located right on the banks of the Rhine. This complex houses a mix of modern residential and office buildings, alongside cafés, restaurants, galleries, and a walking promenade. In the evening you can take a sunset stroll, admiring the boats in the marina. Then, when you're done, pop into a trendy riverside bar or restaurant.

Climb the Cologne Cathedral

Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

This Cologne Cathedral , or Kölner Dom, is situated in the heart of Cologne, and is the tallest twin-spired church and the third tallest cathedral in the world, at 157 meters (515 feet) tall. This Gothic masterpiece is one of Germany's most important architectural monuments and one of the top 10 sights in Germany . On average, this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts 20,000 people a day and is among the most visited sites in Germany. The unique spires give it its iconic look and create the largest façade of any church in the world. For an unparalleled view over the Rhine, visitors can climb more than 500 steps to a viewing platform about 100 meters (330 feet) over the city.

People Watch by the Historic City Hall

 Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

Visit the oldest city hall (or Rathaus) in Germany at the Alter Markt (Old Square) in Cologne. This is a prime people-watching spot, as many facets of city life take place in this central meeting point. The building is Germany's oldest city hall—dating back about 900 years—and contains over 130 statues adorning its elaborately decorated façade. The loggia in the front of the building represents a quintessential example of the Renaissance era. Don't miss the grotesque wood-carved Platzjabbeck . When the clock strikes the hour, it opens its mouth and rudely sticks out its wooden tongue.

Walk Across the Deutzer Bridge

The Rhine River is a defining geographic feature of the area. For a spectacular view of the cathedral and the cityscape, leave the Altstadt (Old Town) of Cologne and cross the Rhine to the other side of the river. Here, young people gather on basketball courts, musicians busk, and strollers stroll. Walk down the Rheinuferpromenade (or Rhine Promenade), and then cross back over the Deutzer Bridge, which offers stunning views of the city, especially at sunset.

Window-Shop on Schildergasse Street

Schildergasse Street, one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe, offers a bustling car-free pedestrian zone full of international department stores and modern architecture. An estimated 13,000 people pass through every hour, admiring the high-priced designer brands and landmarks like  Antoniterkirche , the oldest Protestant church in Cologne, and the impressive Peek & Cloppenburg's Weltstadthaus , designed by Renzo Piano.

This location is not all modern shopping, however. Schildergasse Street is the second oldest street in Cologne, dating back to ancient Roman times. Once known as Decumanus Maximus , Roman soldiers marched along it as an important trade route to Gaul. It was also home to artists who painted coats of arms in the Middle Ages. Their work gave the street its current name, which in English means "Shield Street."

Smell Eau de Cologne

There's almost nothing better to do in a city called "Cologne" than follow your nose to the birthplace of modern perfume. The famous Eau De Cologne 4711 perfume was named when Cologne was occupied by the French. Napoleon ordered his soldiers to count all the houses on Glockengasse, and the Eau de Cologne building was number 4711, giving the famed perfume its name. Here, on the hour, the French anthem is played. Go inside to visit the shop, a small historic exhibition, complete with fragrance workshops, and a fountain where you can dip your hands in pure Eau de Cologne.

Stroll the Flora and Botanical Garden

Aniket Mone / Flickr

Cologne’s Flora und Botanischer Garten is the oldest public park in the city. Located on the left bank of the Rhine, the site covers almost a half mile and has more than 10,000 species of plants, like magnolias, rhododendrons, coniferous trees, and maples. The Flora, a renovated historic building, is set at the center of the garden and serves as a perfect respite for tourists needing a break from walking. The Flora hosts concerts, social gatherings, and conferences, and is visited by more than a million people every year.

Find Medieval Gates and Walls

The city once boasted up to 12 medieval gates dating from 50 A.D., but only a few remain today. Luckily, the few that remain are well-preserved and decorated in natural materials, like limestone, sandstone, greywacke, and trachyte. Visit the massive 13th-century Hahnentorburg at Rudolfplatz. Other impressive examples include gates at Severinstorburg, Ulrepforte , and Eigelsteintorburg.

Enjoy Rooftop Views at St. Gereon's Basilica

A magnificent example of one of the 12 Romanesque churches located in the city, St. Gereon's has impressive views from the decagonal arched rooftop. The site is dedicated to the Roman officer who died, along with legionnaires, in the belief of his Catholic faith. The building earned the designation of a basilica in 1920.

On the east side of the church awaits a quaint park that makes a perfect location from which to appreciate the structure's architecture. Art fans won't want to miss the giant sculpture created in 2002 by artist Iskender Yediler. It depicts the head of the decapitated Roman soldier, Saint Gereon.

Visit Charming Old Town

Take a walk through the narrow cobblestone alleys to see the charming Old Town area, which was painstakingly rebuilt after the majority of it was destroyed during World War II. Spend your day here checking out Cologne's culture, with plenty of options nearby, like the Romano-Germanic Museum, the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum, and the Museum Ludwig. Then, after a long day of sightseeing, there is no better place to grab a Brauhaus —also known as beer—than in this section of the city. A variety of local pubs serve guests a wide selection of local draft options and classic German fare. 

See Street Murals

Bourdeaux / Wikimedia Commons 

There is an abundance of creativity and street art in Cologne, from murals to stencils to stickers, and it won't cost you a cent to look at it. Start out in the district of Ehrenfeld, just west of Cologne's center, filled with large murals by internationally-famed artists, various art studios, and people of many cultures. In Belgisches Viertel (the Belgian Quarter), between Aachener and Venloer Straße in the inner city of Cologne, you'll find numerous murals and smaller works on several doors, gates, and even on the sidewalk. Graffiti lovers will enjoy multicultural Nippes, in the north of Cologne, and Mülheim on the Rhine's eastern bank.

Relax at The Stadtwald Forest

Oliver Henze / Flickr

Get your nature fix in the Lindenthal district at The Stadtwald Forest, a lovely park with three man-made ponds and a free animal sanctuary. This area houses deer, goats, birds, and other creatures for the whole family to enjoy. If you want to relax and get away from urban life for a few hours, The Stadtwald Forest boasts lawn areas for picnicking and trees for shade. Or, kick it up a notch and take a pony ride or go for a jog, as you watch international park visitors move about.

Learn About History on a Walking Tour

Any day of the year—except for a few carnival days in November and in the spring—you can take a no-cost foot tour with Freewalk Cologne. Groups are usually small and the journey lasts about 2.5 hours. On this tour, you'll go by Ostermann Square and Old Town, as well as a few other notable areas of Cologne. Meet your tour guide and fellow travelers underneath one of the old city gates, the Eigelstein-Torburg, a 10-minute walk from the Cologne Cathedral. Booking in advance is mandatory and, if English isn't your first language choice, they will give you a tour in Spanish or German, too. Although the tours are free, tips are expected.

Feel the Love at Hohenzollernbrücke Bridge

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Hohenzollernbrücke Bridge, which crosses the Rhine river and boasts views of the Cologne Cathedral, is a great destination that costs nothing to see. This bridge has a notable history, as one of the most significant bridges in Germany during World War II. While there, check out the thousands of colorful "love locks" hanging from the railings, complete with handwritten words and decorations by couples who attach the lock to the bridge as a symbol of their love and commitment. Each couple then drops their lock's keys into the river to show dedication to their unity.

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Must do Keulen: Free Walking Tours 4 min leestijd

30 oktober 2016 by Susan Poeder

Voor sommige links naar producten en partners op deze website krijgen wij een affiliate commissie.

Ook al reizen we voor ons plezier en ontspanning, een reis plannen kan doorgaans best wel wat stress opleveren. Je wilt zoveel mogelijk zin in zo min mogelijk tijd. Je kunt georganiseerde tours boeken via touroperators, maar deze zijn vaak duur en misschien nog wel meer erg ongezellig. De oplossing?  Free Walking Tours.  Vandaag: Keulen.

Wat zijn  free walking tours?

Deze tours worden meestal aangeboden door locals uit de omgeving. Het leuke hieraan is dat ze de stad kennen als geen ander en ook alle hotspots kennen die minder toeristisch zijn. Deze tours zijn dus gratis, maar vaak wordt er aan het einde van zo’n tour de mogelijkheid geboden om een vrijwillige bijdrage te leveren. Doordat het in principe gratis is, wordt het karakter van dit soort tours ook een stuk vrijblijvender. Vind je het halverwege niks of heb je na een paar uur iets anders op de agenda staan? Dan kun je de groep gewoon verlaten.

Ook trekken deze tours net even een ander soort mensen dan bij betaalde tours. Excursies die zijn opgezet vanuit professionele organisaties zijn niet goedkoop en mensen verwachten dan ook meteen iets voor hun geld. Wanneer hier niet aan voldaan wordt, raken mensen gefrustreerd. En terecht. Je wil ook iets voor je geld. En daarom zijn de gratis tours juist zo leuk. Je ontmoet mensen uit de lokale omgeving en eindigt nadien met elkaar in een verborgen kroegje voor een laatste borrel.

Freewalk Cologne (Keulen)

Deze tour staat op nummer 1 van tours in Keulen op Tripadvisor. Freewalk Cologne  is opgericht door Matthias. Hij begon vanuit de Couchsurfing  community met het organiseren van wandeltours en merkte al gauw dat dit concept goed aansloeg. Er valt absoluut niet veel geld mee te verdienen en doet dit dan ook vanuit zijn passie en plezier. Hij doet dit onder andere samen met Pia: een geschiedenisstudente die alles weet te vertellen over de Romeins-Germaanse geschiedenis van de stad.

Lees ook: Reisverslag Keulen deel 1

De tour begint bij de poort van Eigelstein om 12:11. Waarom niet om 12:00? Daar willen we nog niet teveel over verklappen, maar het getal 11 is op verschillende manieren terug te vinden in Keulen en tijdens deze 2 1/2 uur durende tour zullen ze daar ook alles over vertellen. Pia heeft er echt haar studie van gemaakt om alles over de stad Keulen te leren en het is mooi op te zien hoe het is om een local te zijn. Vooral de leuke anekdotes maken dat je geen seconde met je aandacht ergens anders bent. Ook Matthias lijkt erg veel lol te hebben met de grappen die hij maakt en niemand begrijpt. Erg vermakelijk.

Bananen in Keulen

Wie door Keulen loopt, zal al gauw opmerken dat er op heel veel plekken bananen zijn geverfd op muren. Tijdens de tour wordt hier alles over verteld. Het was Thomas Baumgärtel die hier ooit mee begonnen is in 1986. In den beginne werd dit nog gezien als vervuiling van de openbare ruimte, maar tegenwoordig is dit hét wereldwijde symbool van de kunstscene. Een kleine banaan op een deur is bijvoorbeeld een indicatie dat daar een kunstgalerie zit van uitzonderlijke kwaliteit.

In for a drink?

Zoals eerder beschreven in een van de reisverslagen van Keulen… Ze kennen daar geen openbaar alcoholverbod. Tijdens deze tour stop je dan ook enkele keren voor het nuttigen van een frisse  Kölsch. Hartstikke gezellig. Dit doe je bij kleine kioskjes die je overal in de stad vindt. Als toerist maakt het in principe niet zoveel uit naar welke kiosk je gaat, maar als local is het gebruikelijk dat je een vaste kiosk uitkiest waar je heen gaat en een soort band met de mensen daar opbouwt. Op die manier heeft elke kiosk een vaste groep klanten en weet iedereen wat ze aan elkaar hebben. Het is dan ook niet ongewoon dat mensen soms pas na enkele dagen betalen omdat de eigenaar er op kan vertrouwen dat deze mensen toch wel weer terugkomen.

De tour eindigt bij de Rheingarten waar je – als je nog zin hebt – nog een hapje en een drankje kunt doen met Matthias of Pia. Meestal zoekt Pia nog uit wat voor evenementen er die dag te doen zijn wat echt een aanrader is om deze op te volgen! Wie weet sta je ineens op een super vet stadsfeest met foodtrucks en fantastische muziek. Je leert zo een hele andere kant van Keulen kennen waar menig toerist nooit terecht zou zijn gekomen.

Binnenkort een overzicht van verschillende tours voor je volgende stedentrip of een lange layover!

Over De Auteur

Susan Poeder

Verhalenverteller in hart en nieren en collegehengst van beroep. Maakt het liefst elk jaar een verre reis maar heeft het budget van een brugklasser. Heeft een zwak voor wetenschapsjournalistiek, sushi en Marvel.

Liep het afgelopen jaar stage bij National Geographic en schrijft sinds kort voor Inside Flyer.

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Gratis Hoogtepunten Tour Keulen

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Your visit to Cologne Cathedral

Opening hours.

Current information on the opening of Cologne Cathedral

The following applies to all visitors to the cathedral - whether you are attending a church service, are a tourist or part of a guided group:

• Please be prepared for identity checks by cathedral staff when entering the cathedral, the treasury and the tower ascent.
• Only small bags and rucksacks (maximum A4 size) may be taken into the cathedral, the treasury and the tower ascent. Wheeled suitcases, cabin trolleys, hiking rucksacks and other large items of luggage are not permitted in the cathedral and its special areas, nor can they be stored there.

We thank you for your understanding of these measures, which contribute to your safety.

Welcome to Cologne Cathedral!

This section contains the rules of admission for Cologne Cathedral, the tower, the Cathedral Treasury, and guided tours. Please note that we reserve the right to change the rules of admission given below at any time depending on the daily incidence rate in the City of Cologne.

Opening hours: daily from 06:00 - 20:00

The Cologne Cathedral world heritage site is, as a rule, open to tourists on working days (Monday to Saturday) between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and on Sundays between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. and the tower narthex after the evening Mass until 8 p.m. Because Masses take priority, we reserve the right to change opening hours. Please consult our up-to-date Mass times page before your visit.

It is generally possible to pray or light a candle in the tower narthex during a liturgy.

Service hours

Masses at Cologne Cathedral are held at the following times: Working days (Monday to Saturday): Mass: 6.30 a.m., 7.15 a.m., 8.00 a.m., 9.00 a.m., and 6.30 p.m. Devotion: Monday to Friday, 6.00 p.m.

Sundays: Mass: 7.00 a.m., 8.30 a.m., 10.00 a.m., 12 midday, 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. Divine Office: 6.00 p.m. 

Please consult also our up-to-date Mass times page .

You have the opportunity to go to confession on working days. You find the confessionals at the chapels in the ambulatory.  

First Sunday of the month: Chapter Mass in Latin

Many Catholics whose native language is not German visit Cologne Cathedral and celebrate Mass with us, especially on Sundays. In order to ensure that they can pray with us and not just silently in their own languages, the High Mass at 10 a.m. on the first Sunday in the month is, as a rule, celebrated partially in Latin. The parts in Latin are the well-known texts that are used in every Mass. This means that all Mass-goers – whatever their native language – can pray together.

You will find the Latin texts and a German translation in the Gotteslob prayer book, Numbers 582 to 591.

Cologne Cathedral tower FAQs

When standing facing the main portal of the cathedral, turn to your right and walk towards Roncalliplatz. After just a few metres, you will see a flight of steps beside the south tower leading downwards. These steps are marked 'Dom-Turm / Parkhaus / Toiletten' (which means 'cathedral tower/car park/toilets'). The entrance to the tower is at the bottom of these steps.

March–April: from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily May–September: from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily October: from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily November–February: from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During the carnival season in Cologne, the tower is closed on Women's Carnival Day (Weiberfastnacht), Carnival Saturday, Carnival Sunday, Rose Monday (Rosenmontag). The dates of these days change from year to year. The tower is also closed on 11 November, Christmas Eve (24 December), Christmas Day (25 December), New Year's Eve (31 December), and New Year's Day (1 January) every year.

Half an hour before the tower closes.

Adults pay €6. Children, schoolchildren, students, and persons with special needs pay a reduced entry fee of €3. Families can buy a family ticket for €12.

Combi tickets, which give visitors access to both the tower and the Cathedral Treasury, cost €10 for adults. The reduced rate is €5,00. Family combi tickets cost €20.

It depends on how fast you can climb the 533 steps to the viewing platform (which is about 100 m above ground) and how long you want to stay on the viewing platform. We recommend that you plan in between 30 and 45 minutes.

No. It is neither necessary nor possible to make a booking or reserve a time slot. Just come to the ticket desk on the day of your visit. Children and youth groups must be accompanied by responsible adults.

Not usually, no. But on busy days when a lot of tourists want to climb the tower, there may be a wait.

People accompanying school groups pay the reduced price. People accompanying people with special needs who can show the B mark on their disabled person's pass may enter the tower free of charge.

No. It is not possible to make a booking or pay in advance. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Children may visit the tower with their parents if they are able to climb the 533 steps to the viewing platform (which is about 100 m above ground) of their own accord.

No, for structural reasons, it is not possible to install a lift on the south tower of Cologne Cathedral. Visitors access the viewing platform via a spiral staircase and a metal staircase.

Yes, visitors generally pass through Cologne Cathedral's bell chamber, which contains eight of the cathedral's 12 bells, on their way to the viewing platform. If extended bell-ringing is scheduled before a mass (for example on Sundays and feast days before 2.00 p.m.) or in the event of maintenance work, the bell chamber remains closed.

Yes, the Cathedral Works Department offers special tours of the belfry on working days for visitors who would like to experience the ringing of the bells. Visitors taking this tour will be provided with professional hearing protection devices.

Cathedral Treasury

Visiting the Cathedral Treasury:

The Cathedral Treasury is open to visitors between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. You will find more information here.

Guided tours

Please note the following:

• No more than 20 people are allowed on each guided tour of Cologne Cathedral and the Cathedral Treasury.
• No more than 12 people are allowed on each guided tour of the roof and excavation area. For these tours, visitors must be at least 16 years of age.

Tickets for public tours can be purchased up to seven days in advance in the foyer of the Domforum.  For more information, visit:  www.domforum.de/domfuehrungen

Tours of special areas (roof, excavation area, Cathedral Treasury, Cologne Cathedral at Night, etc.) are now open for bookings again ( www.domfuehrungen-koeln.de ). 

General information on tours in Cologne Cathedral All tours of Cologne Cathedral must be registered in advance. Only authorised or registered cathedral tour guides are permitted to conduct tours inside Cologne Cathedral. In other words, individuals, groups, and travel companies must book a group tour of Cologne Cathedral at the DOMFORUM .

Individual visitors may explore the cathedral by themselves outside Mass times. Tours shall be allocated to available tour slots. A maximum of 10 tours per hour and a maximum of 25 people per group are permitted in the cathedral.

For information about guided tours on the roof, in the excavations, in the treasure chamber as well as to the bells please contact: www.domfuehrungen-koeln.de

The DOMFORUM organizes guided tours of the interior of the cathedral. Please observe the regulations concerning guided tours of groups in Cologne cathedral. Unless otherwise indicated, tours will be conducted in German.  DOMFORUM

Guided tours in English Information on the next guided tour:   DOMFORUM Adults: € 10,00 Children and Students: € 8,00 Tickets for public guided tours (max. 12) may be purchased in advance at the  DOMFORUM  at until 15 minutes prior to the preferred tour. For participants of the open guided tour, the charge for the tour guide system (wireless communication system) is included in the price.  Meeting point: DOMFORUM

For further information or booking please contact:  DOMFORUM Monday - Thursday 10:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 15:00 Friday 10:00 - 12:00 Tel: +49 (0) 221 92 58 47 30

Important notices

Dear visitors to Cologne Cathedral, We are happy to welcome you to the Cathedral St. Peter at Cologne. This cathedral was built to the glory of God and is to this day, above all, a house of prayer and worship. The cathedral protects the precious relics of the Three Kings. By entering the cathedral, you acknowledge the following rules.

Domordnung Italiano • Chinese • Arabic

(1) All visitors respect the dignity of this holy place and refrain from loud talking or running.

(2) Sightseeing is generally permitted whenever no service is being celebrated at the main altar in the center of the cathedral

(3) Music and singing outside of services is not permitted.

(4) Parents or adults accompanying children or youth observe their supervisory responsibilities.

(5) Visitors respect closures and areas which are off limits to sightseeing.

(6) Cell phones etc. are to be placed in “silent” mode. Talking on the phone is only permitted outside the cathedral.

(7) Clothing should be appropriate for the house of God. Sleeveless or cropped tops are considered inappropriate as are short shorts or skirts. Men may cover their heads for health or religious reasons. Religiously offensive or racist symbols will not be tolerated.

(8) Food and drink are to be consumed outside the cathedral.

(9) Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted in the entire cathedral building.

(10) Persons who are visibly drunk may not enter the cathedral.

(11) Drugs of any kind (as defined by the Controlled Substances Act (BtMG)) are forbidden.

(12) Scavenger hunts etc. cannot take place inside the cathedral.

(1) Taking pictures without a flash and recording videos with reasonable technical components is permitted outside of services for private use. During services, it is possible only from one’s place. Respectful cooperation is to be observed in that recordings do not directly contain other visitors. Those taking pictures or making videos must, in any case, respect the dignity of the location and follow the instructions of cathedral personnel.

(2) Private “photo shoots” are forbidden.

(3) Recordings with tripods require the permission of the cathedral provost.

(4) The use of model airplanes and unmanned aircraft (drones) is not permitted in the cathedral or over the property outside.

(5) The publication of pictures or videos for non-private use — i.e. editorial reports, commercial and ideological promotion (including private websites and social media) — must have prior permission.

(6) These rules are excerpts from the regulations for taking pictures and recording videos in the cathedral. Please see the complete and concrete regulations at www.koelner-dom.de/fotografierenundfilmen .

(1) Luggage should be kept with you at all times. The owner is responsible for costs incurred by storage of luggage. Only luggage the size of a standard carry-on bag (max 55 x 40 x 20 cm) may be brought into the cathedral.

(2) Wheelchairs, rollators and licensed electric wheelchairs are allowed in the cathedral; other wheeled vehicles and bicycles must remain outside.

(3) Weapons (including potential weapons and CS-gas) are prohibited throughout the cathedral.

(4) Folding chairs, stools and the like may not be brought.

(5) Balloons, confetti and streamers are forbidden throughout the cathedral.

Distribution of printed matter requires the express consent of the cathedral provost.

Animals, with the exception of guide-dogs, must remain outside.

(1) Cathedral tours are only possible with a guide licensed for such tours at the cathedral.

(2) Tour participants are to be informed of the cathedral rules.

(1) The instructions of the security personnel and cathedral guards are to be followed at all times.

(2) Persons not following the cathedral rules or the instructions of the staff may be asked to leave.

(3) Cathedral guards do not serve as cathedral guides.

§8 The cathedral rules are effective as of October 1, 2019.

Provost emeritus Gerd Bachner

Download the free Cologne Cathedral app containing a spiritual tour of Cologne Cathedral: spiritual thoughts at ten different locations in the cathedral. The app also includes mass times and opening hours, information on the cathedral's works of art, topical issues, events, and much more.

• Die heiligen Drei Könige
• Aktuelles aus dem Dom
• Dreikönigswallfahrt
• Ansprechpartner
• Temperaturen
• Aktuelle Informationen
• Öffnungszeiten
• Barrierefreiheit
• Wichtige Hinweise
• Fotografieren und Filmen
• Domschatzkammer
• Turmbesteigung
• Gottesdienste und Beichte
• Domministranten
• Meine Kerze
• 100 Jahre „Decker Pitter“
• Petersglocke
• Themenrundgang "Der Dom und die Juden"
• Musik im Dom
• Der Dom in Zahlen
• Publikationen
• Sagen und Legenden

Unterstützen

• Spende Kölner Dom
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• Kulturstiftung Kölner Dom
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• Institutionelles Schutzkonzept
• Schöpfungsverantwortung

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The official tourist ticket

Whether you're planning a visit to one of Cologne's museums , a boat trip on the Rhine or an evening at the theater, the KölnCard makes it easy to experience the most interesting aspects of the city at a discount.

Save on discounted admission to many museums and get up to 50% discount on city tours , shopping and many gastronomic offers from numerous partners in the fields of art, culture and gastronomy . With free travel on local public transport (ÖPNV), you are mobile for 24 or 48 hours.

For as little as €9.00 , you can discover the city in all its facets at reduced prices.

The advantages at a glance

Free ride on public transport in Cologne

Discounted admission to many museums

up to 50% discount on many city tours

Further discounts with many other partners

Important information

Attention: Due to a technical malfunction, no KölnCards can be sold online at the moment. Please try again later or buy your card directly from us on site at the tourist information or at the ticket machines of the Kölner Verkehrs-Betriebe (KVB) and the Deutsche Bahn (DB) in the area of validity.

How to use your KölnCard

All information at a glance

The purchase of a KölnCard entitles the cardholder to enjoy the benefits listed in this e-paper . Please note the opening hours of the service providers.

You must present your KölnCard to the service provider before receiving the benefit that is being offered. Please note that you must present the card before you place your order at restaurants.

The Group Card is valid for a maximum of five people.

KölnCard holders can use all local public transportation within the city limits of Cologne free of charge, depending on the type of KölnCard. This right is valid for the buses, trams, commuter trains and regional trains (2nd class) of the transportation network.

The KölnCard becomes valid as soon as the name of the cardholder (for a group card, the name of a group member) has been entered along with the date and the time reference. In order to use your KölnCard for free local public transportation, you must validate the card in the ticket stamping machine before your trip. The KölnCard remains valid for 24 or 48 hours after it is used or stamped for the first time, depending on the type of KölnCard.

The card is non-transferable and is only valid in combination with an official personal ID.

The purchase of a KölnCard does not entitle the holder to make warranty claims against the Cologne Tourist Board (KölnTourismus). The Cologne Tourist Board acts solely as in intermediary for the listed service providers. The Cologne Tourist Board assumes no liability for the individual benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The KölnCard allows tourists to discover the Rhine metropolis inexpensively and conveniently. Travel on all public transport in Cologne is free. In addition, numerous partners from the fields of art, culture and gastronomy grant discounts of up to 50%.

The KölnCard allows tourists to use all public transport in the city of Cologne: Buses, trams, suburban railway (S-Bahn) and regional trains (2nd class).

The KölnCard is valid for 24 or 48 hours from the time it is validated, depending on the card type.

A single ticket costs € 9.00 (24 hours) or € 18.00 (48 hours). A group ticket for five people costs € 19.00 (24 hours) or € 38.00 (48 hours).

The KölnCard can be purchased at the Tourist Information Cologne , at KVB and DB ticket machines in the area of validity, in many accommodations, and at various travel agencies and tour operators.

Guest survey

Together with DeinNRW and other regions and cities in North Rhine-Westphalia, we are conducting an extensive holiday visitor survey. The aim is to gain valuable insights into the experiences and impressions of visitors and to continuously optimise our tourist offers.

Are you currently spending your holiday in Cologne or have you been on holiday in Cologne in the last six months? Then you are invited to tell us about your holiday. As a thank you for your participation, you can win great prizes.

• Getting here
• Opening hours
• Tickets & Vouchers
• Guided tours
• Chocolat Grand Café
• Chocolat Shop
• Schools & Teachers
• The Chocolate factory
• Founder family
• Sustainability

Our program

Book all our offers online in our webshop and plan your visit from home! Please note that our offers are only available in German, except for the “Fine Tasting in English”. Book now your chocolate tasting!

The Chocolate Museum

The exhibition

Starting at a large cocoa tree model, through the 10-meter high tropical house, you follow the path of the cocoa from the harvest to the major stock exchanges of world trade to transport to the chocolate factory.

Our collection

We provide insights: in the Chocolate Museum you embark on a journey through the 5,000-year cultural history of chocolate. On over 4,000 m² you will find the most comprehensive presentation of the history and present of cocoa and chocolate in the world.

Treat yourself to delicious cake and chocolate specialties in our café and enjoy the magnificent view of the Rhine. Enjoy a chocolate fondue, drinking chocolates, chocolate cakes, breakfast, fresh waffles and much more.

Our gift tip

For every occasion.

Give the gift of “Chocolate hours” to your loved ones, friends or acquaintances. As a Christmas present, birthday surprise, Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day, vouchers from the Chocolate Museum are perfect for any occasion.

News from the world of chocolate

“Hänneschen – Ne Draum us Schokolad”

"Ne Draum us Schokolad" Theaterwanderung im Schokoladenmuseum – mit(...) Weiterlesen

"Ne Draum us Schokolad" Theater tour in the Chocolate(...) Weiterlesen

At the Chocolate Museum 1a 50678 Cologne

+49 221 931888-0 [email protected]

Opening hours MO – FR: 10.00 – 18.00 h SA: 10.00 – 18.00 h SO: 10.00 – 18.00 h

Plan a visit

Discover & Experience

Chocolate Museum Cologne

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FREE WALKING TOUR INNSBRUCK

Free Walking Tour Innsbruck

For the moment we are not offering free walking tours, only private tours. Apologies for the inconvenience. To book a private tour please go to the menu and click on “private tours”

Sign-up for Free Tour of the Old Town of Innsbruck in the calendar below to let our guides know you are coming! and discover the city with Fun and Local guides!

Certified Tour Guide

No credit card required, No cancelation Fees

Tour relies only on tips

Leopold Fountain. Your tour guide will be waiting for you there!

How can our Innsbruck walking Tour be Free?

You should tip based on how much value the tour was worth to you 🙂 Some people give 10€ per person others give 20€  per person. It’s up to you.  Just keep in mind that our tour guides rely entirely on your generosity.

Some of the places you will visit in your Tour of the Old Town of Innsbruck

• Hofburg, Innsbruck
• Court Church
• Golden Roof
• Tyrolean Folk Art Museum
• Innsbruck Cathedral

Don't know where to go next?

After going on a Free Walking Tour Innsbruck you can always join our friends for a Free Tour of Luxembourg!

What Tourists say

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Fun walking tour, excellent and fun, great tour with milda.

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Last minute updates 30 aug - tours are running despite the rain, rated ljubljana's #1 tour for 15 years in a row, our walking tours have gained a reputation for excellence. "meticulously structured, content-rich, engaging & always entertaining". all tours are delivered by our own team of local licensed guides and are 2 hours long (unlike shorter walks offered by independent guides). join us as we visit ljubljana's best attractions. hear the stories that make the city come alive., please wait while upcoming tours load. might take a minute if tours do not appear, please see our schedule and simply show up without booking. * for more dates please scroll down and choose tour * in jul & aug we also have "free old town & castle" tours on wednesdays and saturdays at 10am. these tours do not appear in the booking schedule so no booking is required -->.

Professional, informative & entertaining tours by expert licenced guides from our in-house team. Private tours are available in multiple languages by prior booking at competitive price.

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Free tours in Leuven

• Tours in Leuven

104 Reviews in Leuven

Discover the vibrant city of leuven.

Located in the heart of Belgium, Leuven is a dynamic city known for its prestigious university, rich history, and lively atmosphere. Home to the famous KU Leuven, the city brims with youthful energy and intellectual curiosity. 

Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Gothic-style Town Hall, the impressive St. Peter's Church, and the tranquil Grand Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Leuven is also a culinary delight, famous for its local beers, especially those brewed by the nearby Abbey of the Holy Cross monks. 

The city's many parks and gardens, such as the beautiful Kruidtuin Botanical Garden, offer peaceful retreats. Leuven's bustling city center is full of shops, cafes, and restaurants, while its nightlife is vibrant, with numerous bars and music venues to enjoy. Annual events and festivals, including the renowned Leuven Jazz Festival and the Zythos Beer Festival, contribute to the city's lively atmosphere. Easily accessible by train, bus, and car, Leuven promises an enriching and enjoyable experience, combining academic excellence with cultural charm.

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Free Walking Tour Leuven

General information.

Starting time

11:00 am / 6:00 pm

Tip only basis

Free walking tour Leuven is an awesome way to discover the charming city of Leuven in Belgium that is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to a number of historic buildings and monuments, including the iconic Leuven Town Hall and St. Peter’s Church. Leuven is also famous for its vibrant student culture and its lively nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, cafes, and restaurants. With its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere, Leuven is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Belgium.

Meet your guide outside the St. Peter’s Church.

Tip only basis. You must tip your guide at the end of the tour. It is recommended to tip from 10 to 20 euros per person.

Free walking tour Leuven will start at the iconic St. Peter’s Church, one of Leuven’s most prominent landmarks, and one of the oldest churches in the city. From here, you’ll make your way to the Grand Place, where you’ll learn about the city’s medieval past and its role as a center of trade and commerce. Along the way, you’ll pass by beautiful buildings and quaint cobbled streets, stopping at key landmarks such as the Town Hall and the impressive 16th-century Cloth Hall.

Read more...

Next, you’ll visit the stunning Leuven University, which was established in 1425 and is one of the oldest universities in the world. Here, you’ll learn about the university’s rich history and its role in shaping the city into the cultural hub it is today. After your visit to the university, you’ll stroll through the picturesque streets of the city, taking in the local architecture and immersing yourself in the charming atmosphere of Leuven.

Your tour will conclude with a visit to the Sint-Janshuismuseum, a former monastery that now houses a fascinating collection of religious art and artifacts. Here, you’ll see works from some of Belgium’s most renowned artists and learn about the history and culture of the Low Countries. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Leuven is a city that truly has something for everyone, and this 2-hour walking tour is the perfect way to explore its many wonders.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum of participants.

The maximum of participants is 15 people.

Can I book a private walking tour?

Yes, you can book a private walking tour by contacting us straight via email.

Can I bring my children?

Yes, in Free Tour Leuven everyone is welcome.

What should I bring?

Check out the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring an umbrella in case it’s raining. Bring comfortable shoes, cash and a big smile 🙂