Berlin, 7 May 2025. Cologne is the largest city in North Rhine Westphalia. Boasting more than one million inhabitants, it is also one of Germany’s liveliest metropolitan areas. Cologne brings history, culture and modern urban life together in a unique fashion. Its world-famous cathedral, the charming narrow streets of the old quarter and bustling river promenades all deliver a wide variety of experiences. Those seeking comfort and the chance to unwind after an eventful day will find that each of the four Leonardo Hotels in Cologne offers pleasant accommodation and good links to the city’s key highlights.
1. A walk through local districts – culture, shopping and regional specialities
Cologne’s atmosphere and attitude to life is very much driven by its individual city districts, known by locals as “Veedel”. One of the best known of these is the Belgian District in the west, which is located between Friesenplatz and Rudolfplatz. This is where the cosmopolitan side of the city really comes to life. Brüsseler Platz is surrounded by Art Nouveau façades, boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants. A stroll through the district reveals a characteristic mix of urban flair, shopping and culinary delights. Small galleries and concept stores will entice you away from the main shopping streets to browse at your leisure. If you are looking for an enjoyable break, the GuMo has a fantastic breakfast menu as well as being home to a popular açaí bowl. The “Kölnkiosk” offers far more than its prosaic name suggests and serves excellent coffee along with a daily changing menu to satisfy appetites both small and large.
The Italian specialities of Little Nonna are a further option and come highly recommended.
If you wish to immerse yourself more deeply in Cologne’s creative scene, then a quick detour to the neighbouring district of Ehrenfeld will deliver a dose of impressive street art and urban charm.
2. Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Cathedral may well be the city’s most familiar sight, but a visit is still an absolute must. A Gothic-style building extending up to a height of 157 metres, it is one of the largest churches in the world and has dominated the cityscape for centuries. The colourful south transept window by the artist Gerhard Richter is particularly striking. Thousands of coloured squares constantly transform the interior depending on the angle of the light. The cathedral also houses the legendary Shrine of the Three Kings. Anyone willing to climb the 533 steps up to the tower platform will be amply rewarded with breathtaking views over the old quarter and the River Rhine.
3. Old quarter
Cologne’s old quarter is situated just a stone's throw from the cathedral. Nestled right on the banks of the Rhine, it exudes a charm all of its own. Colourful gabled houses, winding alleys and historic squares are the main features. The richness of Cologne’s history is particularly apparent in the area around the “Old Market” and the Town Hall. There is plenty to discover here, including traces of the city’s Roman and Jewish heritage, statues of the well-known puppetry figures Tünnes and Schäl and the Heinzelmännchen Fountain. Amidst all of this, traditional pubs such as the “Früh am Dom” provide an opportunity to experience the truly authentic atmosphere of the area.
4. Art and culture
Cologne is now one of Germany’s most vibrant centres of art and culture. More than 100 museums, numerous galleries and festivals, exhibitions and stage shows all make the city an exciting destination for culture enthusiasts. One of the highlights is the Museum Ludwig, which houses one of the most significant collections of modern art anywhere in Europe and holds works by Picasso, Warhol and Richter. The Museum of Applied Art (MAKK) is an impressive homage to the decorative arts. Its collections embrace everything from historical objects to icons of modern design. The Chocolate Museum is also well worth seeing. As well as encountering a three-metre-high chocolate fountain, visitors can enjoy tasting sessions and gain interactive insights into the history of cocoa from the Aztecs to modern-day production. A piece of chocolate cake in the museum’s café will round off any visit nicely.
5. A relaxed time-out in natural surroundings
Cologne offers numerous green retreats alongside cultural and urban life. The Rhine Park on the right-hand bank of the river has sweeping meadows and views of the cathedral and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. The Aachener Weiher, a lively meeting point for young and old alike on warm days in particular, is equally popular. Those who prefer a quieter atmosphere will find a green oasis and a diverse range of plants in the Flora and in the Botanical Gardens.
An urban refuge with a fresh charm – the Leonardo Köln
The Leonardo Köln acts as an interface between bustling city life and moments of tranquillity. It provides the perfect setting to experience Cologne from a wide variety of perspectives. Perhaps you have spent an inspiring few hours in the city centre. You may have explored the cultural scene or taken in the vistas from the viewing platform of the “Triangle”. Whatever you have been doing, this is the ideal venue in which to unwind at the end of the day. The Leonardo Köln now displays a resplendent new look following the completion of extensive renovation works in April 2026. Its 165 rooms offer impressive modern comforts and a cosy atmosphere. The hotel’s has its own restaurant and bar to cater to guests’ culinary needs and a gym space in which to enjoy physical activity.