As one of the Germany’s oldest and most vibrant cities, Cologne offers a great mix of history, culture, and activities every taste. From its iconic cathedral to rich Roman heritage, green spaces, and eco-friendly initiatives, Cologne offers a unique travel experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best sustainable things to do in Cologne, travel costs, eco-friendly accommodations, local and sustainable dining options, and practical tips for getting around.

Why Visit Cologne

Cologne, or Köln in German, located on the banks of the Rhine River, is a city that combines the old and the new. Its historical landmarks, such as the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), stand in contrast to its modern art galleries and trendy cafes. Here are some compelling reasons to visit Cologne:

1. Rich History and Culture: Cologne is home to over 2,000 years of history, including Roman ruins, medieval churches, and a thriving contemporary art scene.
2. Architectural Marvels: The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most magnificent Gothic structures in the world.
3. Vibrant Festivals: The city is known for its lively festivals, especially the Cologne Carnival, which is one of the largest and most famous in Europe.
4. Green Spaces: With numerous parks, gardens, and the scenic Rhine promenade, Cologne offers plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy nature.
5. Sustainability: Cologne is a leader in sustainable tourism, with numerous eco-friendly hotels, restaurants, and initiatives that make it easy for visitors to travel green.

Best Sustainable Things to Do in Cologne

Explore Roman Legacy

Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

The Cologne Cathedral is Germany’s most visited attraction and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Completed in 1880 after over 600 years of construction, it is the third highest church in the world. Visitors can also climb up the tower and enjoy the views over the city.

Romano-Germanic Museum

Located near the cathedral, the Romano-Germanic Museum houses an extensive collection of Roman artifacts, including mosaics, pottery, and jewelry.

Archaeological Zone / Jewish Museum

This area showcases the city’s ancient past, including the remains of a Roman road and Jewish artifacts. The Jewish Museum, set to open soon, will offer a deep dive into the history of Cologne’s Jewish community.

Roman Burial Chamber in Köln-Weiden

Located in the suburb of Weiden, this Roman burial chamber offers a glimpse into the funerary practices of ancient Rome.

The Roman City Walls

Cologne’s Roman city walls are a testament to the city’s ancient past. Visitors can walk along the remnants of these walls and imagine what life was like in Roman times.

Visit City Museums

Chocolate Museum

The Chocolate Museum is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It covers the history of chocolate from the Aztecs to modern-day production and includes a greenhouse with cacao trees, a mini production line, and, of course, plenty of tasting opportunities.

Parfum Museum

Cologne is famous for its perfume, especially Eau de Cologne. The Parfum Museum, located in the historic Farina House, explores the history of perfume production and the legacy of the Farina family, who created the original Eau de Cologne.

Columba Museum

This contemporary art museum is housed in the ruins of a Gothic church and features an impressive collection of modern art, as well as temporary exhibitions that explore a variety of themes and mediums.

Roman Ruins

Scattered throughout the city, these ruins offer a tangible connection to Cologne’s Roman heritage. Highlights include the Praetorium, the former Roman governor’s palace, and the remains of a Roman sewer system.

Discover Green Spaces

Rhine Park

Adjacent to the Congress-Centrum Koelnmesse, Rhine Park is a sprawling green space perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the river. It offers beautiful views of the Rhine and the city skyline.

Botanical Gardens

Cologne’s Botanical Gardens, located in the northern part of the city, are a haven for plant lovers. They feature over 10,000 species of plants from around the world, including a stunning tropical greenhouse.

City Beaches

Cologne’s city beaches, such as Rheinstrand and Blackfoot Beach, offer a unique way to enjoy the river. These sandy spots are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a drink with a view of the Rhine.

Cologne Travel Costs

Traveling in Cologne can be quite affordable, especially if you take advantage of the city’s public transportation system and budget-friendly accommodations. Here are some typical costs you can expect:

• Public Transportation: Tickets start at around 2.5 euros for a single trip.
• Bike Rental: Approximately 7 euros for 3 hours.
• Hotel Room: Around 100 euros per night for a mid-range hotel.
• Hostel: From 50 euros per night.
• Coffee: About 3 euros.
• Beer: Around 2.5 euros.
• Dinner: Main courses at local restaurants typically cost around 12 euros.

Sustainable Hotels & Hostels in Cologne

Cologne offers a variety of eco-friendly accommodations that prioritize sustainability without sacrificing comfort.

NH Collection Köln Mediapark

Located in the city center, this hotel is part of the GreenLeaders program and features a gym, steam bath, and sauna. Prices start from 100 euros per night.

Hilton Cologne

Situated close to the Cologne Cathedral, this hotel is a GreenLeaders GreenPartner. It offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s main attractions. Rates begin at 130 euros per night.

25hours Hotel The Circle

This hotel reduces its environmental footprint through water and energy conservation, and offers free bikes and locally sourced products. It’s a stylish and sustainable choice for travelers.

Local and Sustainable Restaurants and Coffee Shops in Cologne

Cologne’s culinary scene includes a range of sustainable dining options that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.

Brauhaus Fruh am Dom

Located near the Cologne Cathedral, this brewery tavern serves traditional Cologne dishes and Fruh Kölsch beer directly from the barrel. The beer garden offers stunning views of the cathedral.

Impact Cafe

This cafe focuses on a circular economy and offers delicious breakfast options. It’s a great place to start your day sustainably.

Down to Earth Noodles

This Asian restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it a popular choice for eco-conscious diners.

Bunte Burger

Known for its loaded vegan burgers, Bunte Burger has a location in Ehrenfeld and food trucks around the city. It’s a must-visit for burger lovers.

Cafe Hibiskus

Perfect for an afternoon coffee and a slice of vegan cake, Cafe Hibiskus is a cozy spot with a welcoming atmosphere.

Chum Chay

This vegetarian Vietnamese restaurant features a lovely outdoor courtyard and flavorful dishes, making it a great choice for a relaxing meal.

Sustainable To-Go Options

In Cologne, you can reduce your plastic consumption with reusable options like the Vytal Bowl for meals and RECUP for to-go coffees. These initiatives help cut down on waste and are easy to use.

Getting Around

Cologne’s efficient public transportation system and bike-friendly infrastructure make it easy to get around without a car.

Public Transportation

Cologne’s public transportation system is affordable and convenient. A single trip costs around 2.5 euros, and a weekend card provides unlimited travel. The system includes buses, trams, and trains, making it easy to explore the city and nearby areas like Bonn and Düsseldorf.

Bike Rental

Renting a bike is a great way to see Cologne. The KVB bike app allows you to rent bikes easily, and many hotels offer free bikes to guests. Wide bike lanes and scenic routes make cycling a pleasure.

Best Time to Visit Cologne

The best time to visit Cologne is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. Summer (July to August) is also a good time, especially if you enjoy festivals and outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) is colder but offers the chance to experience Cologne’s famous Christmas markets.

A 2-Day Itinerary to Cologne

Day 1: Historical and Cultural Highlights

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Cologne Cathedral. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
• Mid-Morning: Head to the Romano-Germanic Museum to explore Roman artifacts and learn about the city’s ancient history.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Brauhaus Fruh am Dom, where you can savor traditional Cologne dishes and Kölsch beer.
• Afternoon: Visit the Chocolate Museum for a sweet treat and a fascinating look at the history of chocolate.
• Evening: Stroll along the Rhine promenade and relax in one of the riverside parks.

Day 2: Sustainable Exploration

• Morning: Rent a bike and explore the city’s green spaces, starting with Rhine Park and the Botanical Gardens.
• Mid-Morning: Visit the Archaeological Zone / Jewish Museum to learn more about Cologne’s diverse history.
• Lunch: Have a vegan burger at Bunte Burger or a vegetarian meal at Chum Chay.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the Columba Museum to enjoy contemporary art.
• Evening: End your day with a relaxing drink at Cafe Hibiskus, where you can enjoy a vegan cake and coffee.

Cologne is a city that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to eco-conscious travelers. With its rich cultural heritage, green initiatives, and vibrant culinary scene, it’s a destination that promises a memorable and sustainable travel experience. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Cologne has to offer!