Hidden Gems for Cologne

Find great things to do in Cologne

Cologne is so much more than its well-known beer, called “Kölsch,” and the iconic, massive cathedral. Even though these two things alone are already good reasons for a trip, in our opinion! However, there are lots of nice cafés, restaurants, museums and shops to explore. In our travel guide you will find great things to do in Cologne.

1. Hidden Gem Cologne: Cafe Hinz und Kunz

If you like fancy pancakes for breakfast, this café is perfect! How about their fluffy buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh yoghurt, pistachio, honey and strawberries? Of course, you can also order a deliciously savory breakfast if you prefer salt, like a plate with a variety of cheese and sausages. The interior of “Hinz and Kunz” is simple but nice: grey wallpaper, lovely pictures hanging on the walls, old wooden chairs and fresh flowers. A mixture of industrial-chic with a little bit of vintage. The café is also perfect for an afternoon coffee break after exploring the little shops on the “Dürenerstraße.” You can take bus 136 to the café.

Hinz und Kunz / © Instagram: ofgoodheart

2. Hidden Gem Cologne: Sonnenschein Etage

A city beach over the roofs of cologne. During the summer months (beginning in May) you can find the rooftop bar on top of the Kaufhof car park in the city center of Cologne. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, having a good drink and enjoying the view of the famous cathedral. You pay a 5-Euro entry but there is a minimum consumption included.

Sonnenschein Etage / © Instagram: dima_luxtransfer

3. Hidden Gem Cologne: Hohenzollernbrücke

Take a walk along the “Hohenzollern Bridge” to find the wall of padlocks and add an unbreakable proof of your own love. Thousands of couples (or friends!) have come here already to publicly, and eternally, honor their love or friendship. The tradition started around 2008 and the bridge counts already around 40.000 padlocks in total. So purchase a lock, add your initials and throw the key into the river.

Hohenzollernbrücke / © Instagram: benjaamino

4. Hidden Gem Cologne: How we live store

Scandinavian interior design is the theme of this new concept store. It’s perfect for buying some small souvenirs to bring back to your flat at home and for getting some unusual gifts for friends. Here, you can find everything you’d want to pimp out your flat: tableware, lamps, chairs, pillows and so many other beautiful and practical things. The closest tram station is “Zülpicher Platz.”