Cologne Traveler Essentials
- Safety rating
- 8.1/10
- Best time to visit
- May to September is mild and pleasant, while February's Karneval and December's Christmas markets are festive highlights.
- Population
- 1.1M
Overview
Dominated by its colossal twin-spired Gothic cathedral, Cologne is a friendly Rhineland city famous for its riverside setting, fragrant eau de cologne, and uproarious pre-Lenten Karneval. Cozy brewhouses serving local Kölsch beer and a clutch of fine museums round out its appeal.
Getting around
An efficient U-Bahn, tram, and bus network covers the city, and the cathedral-centered core is walkable.
Local etiquette
Rhinelanders are warm and sociable; join in the friendly brewhouse banter and respect the chaotic fun of Karneval.
Safety
Cologne is generally safe, but pickpocketing rises around the cathedral, train station, and during Karneval crowds. Keep valuables secure in busy areas.