Cologne . . . . what to do and getting around

cedrickerry

Hi

We're going to Cologne for a few days next week, and are looking for things to do (other than sampling the beer!) and info about how easy it is to get around. We're staying at Prodomo messe hotel, which is apparently close to the fairground and Deutzer train station, but not central. Any tips, or advice greatly appreciated

Thank You

richardw

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187371-d596457-r14317667-Prodomo_Messehotel_Koln-Cologne_North_Rhine_Westphalia.html

cedrickerry

Thanks richardw - used tripadvisor when chosing hotel to make sure I didn't just get a cheap dud

richardw

The reviewer has suggestions about getting around from the hotel, looks like the Tram might be best.

Backbiter

The Deutz station is a shortish walk over the Rhine from the centre - very nice, too. Takes you right to the cathedral, which is one of the most awe-inspiring buildings I've ever seen. It's close enough to the centre not to need a tram or a bus.

nigelgg

The cathedral (Dom) is great to look round. You can go up the tower, and get a fantastic view of the city.
Near the cathedral there are pedestrian shopping streets.
On the square next to the cathedral is the main station (Hauptbahnhof). There is a good shopping mall under the station, with lots of good and cheap fast food restaurants.
South of the city centre is the chocolate museum.
Best way to get round is the tram or metro. There is a map at
http://www.kvb-koeln.de/german/fahrplan/linienplan.html

The zoo is very good. There is a cable car (Seilbahn) over the river at the zoo. Worth going over and back just for the view.

If you like Turkish food, go to Keupstrasse, metro M!lheim Wiener Platz, tram Keupstrasse.

apt

Providing you are going to several places the most economic ticket to get is the day ticket for 5 people. (Das TagesTicket für 5 Personen). With it up to 5 people can travel as often as they want by train, metro, tram and bus from 9am to 3am the following day. It costs 10 euros 10 cents.