Travel tips · Cologne · Germany
Cologne travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Cologne was founded by the Romans and is one of Germany's oldest cities, but its character is relaxed and sociable. The local dialect, Kölsch, shares its name with the beer, and locals are proud of a tolerant, easy-going attitude summed up in the saying 'Jeder Jeck is anders' (everyone is different). The city has a large and visible LGBTQ+ community.
Key facts
- Language
- German
- Currency
- EUR
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency
- 112 (fire and ambulance), 110 police
Things to know
- In brewhouses, sharing tables is normal and chatting with neighbours is expected.
- During carnival, dress up; even a simple costume element helps you fit in.
- Do not order other beers in a Kölsch brewhouse; they only serve their own Kölsch.
- Dress modestly and keep quiet inside the cathedral and other working churches.
- Keep out of red cycle lanes and wait for the pedestrian light.
- The cathedral, Romanesque churches, Hohenzollern Bridge and Rhine promenade are all free.
Tipping
Round up or add about 5–10% for table service, telling the waiter the total when paying. In brewhouses, rounding up on each round is common.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kölle Alaaf! | Cologne's carnival cheer |
| Danke schön | Thank you very much |
| Ein Kölsch, bitte | A Kölsch, please |
| Die Rechnung, bitte | The bill, please |
| Tschö | Bye (local) |
What to wear
Casual clothes are fine almost everywhere. Bring a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes for cobbles and the cathedral tower stairs.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Emergency number
- 112 (fire and ambulance), 110 police
- Phone and internet
- EU roaming applies to European SIMs; free Wi-Fi is available at the main station, the airport and many cafés.
- Time zone
- Europe/Berlin
Cologne is generally safe for visitors, but pickpocketing occurs around the main station, the cathedral square and during carnival and Christmas markets. Large crowds at carnival and big events call for extra care with belongings and drinks.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Germany's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Cologne?
Round up or add about 5–10% for table service, telling the waiter the total when paying. In brewhouses, rounding up on each round is common.
+Can you drink the tap water in Cologne?
Tap water is safe to drink.
+What plugs are used in Cologne?
Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Cologne?
German.