Why CityAppTour?
Explore a city in 1 day
Stories from local guides
Pause whenever you want
Affordable & flexible
Stress-free navigation with audio guidance
English guide
Cologne's identity is deeply rooted in its 2,000-year history, from Roman settlement to medieval religious center. The city's iconic Kölner Dom cathedral dominates the skyline with its twin spires, while the vibrant Altstadt (Old Town) and the Rhine riverfront showcase the perfect blend of historical grandeur and modern Rhineland culture.
As you wander through Cologne's streets, the distinctive scent of Kölnisch Wasser (Cologne water) mingles with the aroma of freshly brewed Kölsch beer from traditional brewhouses. Self-guided tours in Cologne allow you to discover hidden gems at your own pace, pausing whenever you want for that perfect cathedral photo or to sample local delicacies. No rush, no group pressure – just you and the stories of this magnificent Rhine metropolis unfolding through your headphones.
Besides our audio guides, there are many other ways to discover Cologne. Here are some suggestions that can enrich your visit:
Best Time to Visit
Cologne is delightful year-round, but late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds for Cologne sightseeing tours. Summer brings vibrant outdoor festivals along the Rhine, while December transforms the city with enchanting Christmas markets. February's Carnival season showcases Cologne at its most exuberant, though accommodations should be booked well in advance.
Getting There
Cologne is excellently connected by high-speed trains from major European cities. From Cologne Bonn Airport, the S-Bahn train reaches the city center in just 15 minutes. Within the city, the efficient KVB public transport network makes navigation easy. Consider purchasing a KölnCard for unlimited travel and museum discounts. The compact city center means many must-see places in Cologne are accessible on foot.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Most shops open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 20:00, with major stores in the city center staying open later. Museums typically close on Mondays. Cologne Cathedral welcomes visitors daily from 6:00 to 21:00 (with restricted hours during services). On public holidays like German Unity Day (October 3) and during Carnival week, expect adjusted opening times and enthusiastic celebrations.
Comfort on the Go
Wear comfortable shoes as Cologne's historic streets often feature cobblestones. The weather can be changeable, so layering is advisable even in summer. Public drinking fountains are scarce, so carry a water bottle. For the best self-guided tours in Cologne, bring a portable charger as you'll likely take many photos of the stunning architecture.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Kölsch beer is served in small 0.2L glasses called "Stangen" – don't be surprised when waiters automatically bring refills until you place a coaster over your glass. Locals are proud of their dialect and traditions; greeting with "Kölle Alaaf" during Carnival will earn smiles. Tipping is customary (10-15%) in restaurants, and it's polite to make eye contact when saying "Prost" (cheers) before drinking.
How much time should I plan for a visit to Cologne?
You should plan at least one full day to experience Cologne properly. While our self-guided tours in Cologne can be completed in a few hours if walked continuously, the real joy comes from taking your time. Pause to enjoy a Kölsch beer at a traditional brewery, spend time inside the magnificent Cathedral, or browse the shops along Schildergasse – our audio guide lets you explore at your own rhythm.
What makes Cologne different from other German cities?
Cologne stands out for its distinctive local identity and Rhine culture. Unlike more formal German cities, Cologne embraces a relaxed, carnival-loving spirit known as "Kölsche Frohnatur." The city's unique dialect, dedicated beer culture with its own special glass size, and the omnipresence of the Dom cathedral create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Germany.
Why choose an audio guide instead of a guided tour in Cologne?
An audio guide gives you complete flexibility to discover Cologne at your own pace. You can pause whenever you want for photos, shopping, or to enjoy Cologne's famous beer culture without feeling rushed. Additionally, our audio guides are more affordable than private tours while still providing expert commentary on all the must-see places in Cologne.
Do I need internet while walking?
No, you don't need internet while walking. After downloading the tour, everything works offline, including maps and audio. Cologne does offer free WiFi hotspots in the city center and at major attractions, but our app is designed to work perfectly without any connection.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children, though it's primarily written for adults. Kids from about 12 years old will enjoy the stories about Cologne's Roman history, medieval legends, and the fascinating tales behind the cathedral's construction. Younger children might appreciate the visual spectacle of Cologne's architecture even if they don't follow all the historical details.
Can I share the tour with my travel companions?
Yes, you can share the Cologne walking tour experience with your travel companions. Everyone can use their own smartphone to listen simultaneously, and we offer attractive group discounts. Check our product page for the best tours in Cologne for groups of different sizes.
What else is there to do in Cologne?
Beyond our audio guide, Cologne offers excellent museums like the Romano-Germanic Museum showcasing the city's Roman heritage, or the Farina Fragrance Museum where the original Eau de Cologne was created. The Rheinauhafen district features striking modern architecture alongside historic crane houses. See our "Things to Do in Cologne" section for more recommendations.
Is there a free tour in Cologne?
While there are "free" walking tours in Cologne, these typically expect tips of €10-15 per person at the end. Our self-guided tours in Cologne offer better value with professional narration, carefully researched content, and the freedom to explore at your own pace for a transparent fixed price, without the pressure of determining appropriate tips.
Who is CityAppTour?
We're a team of travelers passionate about sharing local stories. Our Cologne audio guides are created by historians and local experts who know the city intimately – from the hidden Roman ruins beneath the streets to the best viewpoints of the cathedral that most tourists never discover.
When is Cologne Carnival and is it worth visiting?
Cologne Carnival officially begins on November 11th at 11:11 AM, but the main celebrations occur during the "crazy days" before Lent (usually February). It's absolutely worth experiencing if you enjoy festivities – it's one of Europe's largest street festivals with colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and a uniquely joyful atmosphere. Book accommodations months in advance as the city fills quickly.
Where can I find the best view of Cologne Cathedral?
The best view of Cologne Cathedral is from the KölnTriangle observation deck across the Rhine. For just €3, you'll get a spectacular panorama of the Dom and the entire city skyline. Alternative viewpoints include the rooftop terrace of the Museum Ludwig or from a Rhine river cruise, offering different perspectives of this iconic landmark.
What's special about Kölsch beer and where should I try it?
Kölsch is Cologne's unique, light and refreshing top-fermented beer that, by law, can only be brewed within the city limits. It's traditionally served in small 0.2L cylindrical glasses called "Stangen." The best places to try authentic Kölsch are the traditional brewhouses in the Altstadt, such as Früh, Gaffel, Päffgen, or Sion, where blue-aproned waiters (Köbes) keep bringing fresh glasses until you signal you're finished.
"The Cologne walking tour gave me insights I'd never have discovered on my own. The stories about the cathedral's construction and the city's Roman past were fascinating, and being able to pause for Kölsch breaks made it perfect!" — Iris, United Kingdom
"Ik was echt geraakt door de verhalen van de audiogids over de veerkracht van Keulen na de Tweede Wereldoorlog. Wandelen door de herbouwde Altstadt terwijl ik hoorde over de geschiedenis gaf me een compleet nieuwe waardering voor deze levendige stad. Beste tours in Keulen voor geschiedenisliefhebbers!" — Joop, Nederland
"As someone who hates being rushed in tour groups, this self-guided tour of Cologne was exactly what I needed. I spent extra time at the Rhine promenade and chocolate museum, then continued the tour at my own pace. The offline map made finding hidden gems in Cologne so easy!" — Kelly, Australia
