←Germany travel guide
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Cologne
A Rhine-side city crowned by one of Europe's greatest cathedrals.
ArchitectureCultureHistory & HeritageNightlife
Cologne is dominated by its twin-spired Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that took over six hundred years to complete. The city's riverside promenades, Kolsch beer halls, and lively Altstadt make it a welcoming stop on any German itinerary.
Check Germany visa requirements →
Best time to visit
May to September
Region
North Rhine-Westphalia
Main airport
Cologne CGN (CGN)
Discover
Top Things to Do in Cologne
Wise
Your bank marks up every USD you spend in Germany. Wise doesn't.
- No foreign transaction fees
- Free ATM withdrawals up to your limit
- Pay in local currency at the real rate
4.8 ★ App Store·4.8 ★ Google Play
Airalo eSIM
Your phone plan was built for home. This one was built for Germany.
- No SIM swapping
- No data roaming charges
- Active in minutes
4.7 ★ App Store·4.6 ★ Google Play
Plan Your Trip
Getting Around Cologne
Tours, stays, transfers, and flights — curated partner options are on the way.
Tours & Activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and day experiences — curated partner options are on the way.
Coming soonWhere to Stay
Hotels, apartments, and guesthouses across every neighbourhood — booking options are on the way.
Coming soonAirport Transfers
Private and shared rides between the airport and the city centre — partner options are on the way.
Coming soonFlights
Compare fares from hundreds of airlines to find the best route in — search options are on the way.
Coming soonTravel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Germany
Entry requirements depend on your passport. Check your specific requirements on the Germany page at Yoogo.
Germany uses the euro (EUR). Cash remains surprisingly important, with many smaller restaurants, bakeries, and shops preferring it, though cards and contactless payments are increasingly accepted in cities and larger establishments.
Germany is a very safe country with low violent crime rates. Travellers should stay alert to pickpocketing at major train stations, Christmas markets, and busy tourist areas, and follow local advice during large events or demonstrations.
Deutsche Bahn operates an extensive rail network, with ICE high-speed trains connecting major cities efficiently. Cities have excellent U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram, and bus systems, and the Autobahn makes driving a practical option for exploring smaller towns and the countryside.
Late spring and summer (May–September) bring warm weather ideal for exploring cities, hiking, and outdoor beer gardens. Autumn is wonderful for wine regions and Oktoberfest, while December attracts visitors for the famous Christmas markets across the country.
German is the official language. English is widely spoken in cities, tourist areas, and among younger Germans, making communication straightforward for most visitors, though a few polite German phrases are always appreciated.
No special vaccinations are required for most travellers beyond routine immunisations. Tap water is safe to drink, healthcare is excellent, and travel insurance is recommended, though EU visitors can use their EHIC or GHIC cards for state care.
Tipping is customary but modest, typically around 5–10 percent in restaurants by rounding up or telling the server the total including the tip. Tips are usually handed directly to staff rather than left on the table.
Germany has solid 4G and expanding 5G coverage, though rural signal can be patchy compared with neighbours. EU roaming applies for European SIMs, and travel eSIMs and prepaid SIMs are easy to obtain for longer stays.
Punctuality is valued, so aim to arrive on time for appointments and reservations. Make eye contact when toasting with 'Prost', follow pedestrian signals even on empty streets, and keep Sundays quiet, as shops close and loud activities are discouraged.