A Local’s Guide to Köln, Germany
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A Local’s Guide to Köln, Germany
Michelle Renee
Welcome to Köln: Where History and Modernity Converge. 🇩🇪
Explore the timeless charm of this German city with this exclusive travel guide. From the iconic Cologne Cathedral to the remnants of ancient Roman structures, Köln invites you to traverse through its rich history. In this guide you'll learn more about the Old Town Cafe's, Koln's unique beer culture, and all the things in between to make the most of your trip.
Learn more about my home away from home with this guide:
This guide includes:
✈️ Advice on traveling to/from Koln
👉🏼 6 Activities
🍻 Authentic Kölsch Breweries
👉🏼 3 Hotel Recommendations
🍴 10 Lunch & Dinner Restaurants
🍷 4 Cocktail & Wine Bars
☕️ 6 Cafés & Coffee Spots
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Cologne
@michellerenee
Cologne, or Köln, boasts a vibrant beer culture deeply rooted in tradition and history. Central to this cultural phenomenon is Kölsch, a pale, top-fermented beer with a distinct taste that holds the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. Brewed exclusively in Cologne, Kölsch has become a symbol of the city's identity. The beer is traditionally served in small, cylindrical glasses called "Stangen," and its consumption is a social experience.
The city is dotted with numerous breweries, many with centuries-old histories, contributing to Cologne's reputation as a beer lover's paradise. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local beer scene by exploring traditional brewhouses, where the combination of historical ambiance and the unique Kölsch tradition creates an authentic and memorable experience. The beer gardens along the Rhine River and in the city's historic quarters provide the perfect backdrop for savoring Kölsch and enjoying the convivial atmosphere that defines Cologne's beer culture.
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Traveling to/from Koln
One of the best things about Koln is its location in Europe. Koln sits relatively close to the French border making it very accessible from other European cities.
If you are traveling to Koln by plane, there are multiple airports to fly into. The Cologne Bonn (CGN) airport is about a 30-minute train to the city center and the train station is directly attached to the airport. Additionally, the neighboring city, Dusseldorf (DUF), has a well-connected airport and is about a 30-minute train ride from Koln city center. Both of these airports are very well connected throughout Europe and offer a variety of connections.
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Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)
@michellerenee
This airport is the closest to Köln city center. It has a train station directly attached.
20 minutes by taxi or Uber
30 minutes by train
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Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)
@michellerenee
Dusseldorf is the neighboring rival city to Köln. This airport is about the same size as CGN and offers more options for flights. There is a train station directly attached to the airport.
45 minutes by train (I recommend taking the train!)
50 minutes by taxi or Uber
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michelle Renee
Hallo, fellow adventurers! I'm Michelle Renee, an American Midwesterner who took the leap and moved across the Atlantic to call Germany home over two years ago. Nestled in the vibrant city of Cologne (Köln), I've not only fallen in love with the rich history and culture of my adopted country but also embarked on journeys that have taken me across the diverse landscapes of Europe
🇺🇸➡️🇩🇪 From Midwest to Köln: My Journey
Born and raised in the heart of the American Midwest, my decision to pack my bags and embrace the beauty of Germany has been a transformative adventure. Living in Köln, with its iconic cathedral, charming neighborhoods, and the Rhine River flowing through its veins, has added a unique chapter to my travel story.
✈️ Wanderlust Chronicles: My Travels Across Europe
During my time abroad, I've explored the enchanting landscapes of Europe, from the historic streets of Paris to the picturesque villages of the Swiss Alps. Whether it's savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine, wandering through the historic sites of Rome, or discovering hidden gems in the Bavarian countryside, my travels have been a tapestry of experiences waiting to be shared.
🌟 Your Personal Guide to European Exploration
Now, I'm excited to bring you along on my journey. I am offering insights and tips to make your European adventures unforgettable. Whether you're dreaming of sipping coffee in a Viennese café, strolling through the charming streets of Amsterdam, or navigating the bustling markets of Barcelona, I've got the inside scoop to turn your travel dreams into reality.
🔍 What to Expect:
Cultural immersion tips for life in Germany,
Recommendations for exploring the hidden gems of Europe
Insights on balancing the charm of small towns with the excitement of big cities
Practical advice for fellow expats and avid travelers
Join me on this journey and let's make your travel dreams come true!
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
40 places
40 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
1 photo
Beautiful, hi-res photos from the creator
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